Easy Stovetop Shakshuka (No Oven)

This easy stovetop shakshuka is a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy eggs in a hearty tomato-based sauce—no oven required! Packed with veggies, protein, and bold Mediterranean flavors, this one-pan dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and endlessly customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love savory, comforting meals that come together with minimal fuss, this stovetop shakshuka is for you. It requires only a pan with a lid, basic ingredients, and less than half an hour of your time. The combination of poached eggs, spiced tomato sauce, wilted greens, and creamy cheese is deeply satisfying and perfect for dipping with crusty bread. It’s also nutrient-dense and adaptable to your tastes and pantry.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
3 cups baby spinach
2 cups tomato sauce
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
4 large eggs
1/3 cup goat or feta cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Optional: sourdough or whole wheat toast for serving

Directions

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add olive oil, then sauté the chopped bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened.

2. Add the baby spinach and sauté for another minute until wilted.

3. Stir in tomato sauce, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Use the back of a spoon to create 4 small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.

5. Sprinkle the crumbled goat or feta cheese over the top. Cover the pan with a lid and let the eggs cook for 5–10 minutes, or until the whites are set but yolks are still soft. Cooking time may vary depending on your pan and stove heat.

6. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil, a crack of black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

7. Serve hot with a slice of toasted sourdough or whole grain bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap the greens: Use kale, Swiss chard, or arugula instead of spinach.

• Add extra veggies: Try mushrooms, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

• Change the cheese: Substitute goat cheese with feta, parmesan, or dairy-free cheese.

• Use different spices: Cumin, chili powder, harissa, or smoked paprika add bold flavors.

• Boost protein: Stir in canned beans or lentils for extra heartiness.

• Go spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Reheating: Microwave gently until warm. Since the dish has a soft texture, reheating doesn’t affect the quality much.

FAQs

What is shakshuka?

Shakshuka is a traditional Mediterranean dish of eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce, often with onions, peppers, and herbs.

Can I make shakshuka without an oven?

Yes! This stovetop version requires only a pan with a lid and is just as delicious as baked shakshuka.

Can I meal prep shakshuka?

Yes. Make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Add and cook the eggs just before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with shakshuka?

Crusty bread, pita, or flatbread are perfect for dipping. You can also pair it with rice, couscous, or a green salad.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Simply omit the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sauce?

Yes, just cook them down with some olive oil and seasonings until they form a thick sauce.

How do I keep the egg yolks runny?

Keep the heat medium-low and watch the eggs closely. Remove from heat as soon as the whites are set.

Can I bake this for a crowd?

Yes, transfer everything to a baking dish after adding the eggs and bake at 375°F until eggs are done.

Can I freeze shakshuka?

It’s not ideal, as the eggs may become rubbery. However, the tomato base can be frozen and reheated later.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The ingredients are simple and mild. You can skip the cheese or spices depending on their preferences.

Conclusion

This stovetop shakshuka is everything you want in a quick, nourishing meal—flavorful, veggie-packed, and satisfying. Whether you’re serving brunch guests or just whipping up a solo breakfast-for-dinner, this dish delivers warmth, comfort, and a dose of Mediterranean flair without ever turning on the oven. Keep it classic or make it your own—either way, it’s a winner.

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