Mug Omelets Are the Quick, No-Mess Breakfast You Need

If the idea of microwaving eggs terrifies you, just know you’re not alone. When I first made these mug omelets, my entire family was skeptical — but I quickly changed their minds. These omelets, courtesy of Food Network’s TikTok account, are incredibly delicious.

The concept of microwave eggs isn’t anything new. In fact, when I first began cooking in 2016, mug omelets were one of the first things I tried in my mother’s kitchen. Folks have been making omelets inside of mugs for years now, so why is it making a comeback on the internet? I think — with people returning to work and school — it’s because life is busier, and there is less free time to spend in the kitchen. If this sounds like your deal, and you’re excited about the idea of making an omelet in five minutes without touching your stove, then this one’s for you.

As with any omelet, you need to gather a handful of ingredients to bring your egg masterpiece to life. Grab a couple of eggs, salt, pepper, a knob of butter (I’m obsessed with Kerrygold butter in my eggs), and any of your favorite omelet sidekicks. I chose to make two different omelets: For the first one I went with a combo of quartered heirloom cherry tomatoes and basil, and for the second I used flaked smoked salmon, crumbled goat cheese, chopped baby kale, and finely chopped red bell peppers and red onions. Other than a teaspoon of butter and two eggs per mug, this simple recipe doesn’t call for any exact measurements to follow. Just be sure to leave about a quarter of the mug empty at the top to allow your eggs to rise as they cook.  

Add your butter to the mug and microwave for a minute. This is also an excellent time to add any vegetables that you want to be slightly tender, such as your chopped red onions and peppers, although this is entirely optional. After your butter is melted, add the cracked eggs and remaining ingredients. Whisk it all together until there are no longer any streaks left in the eggs. Then place it back in the microwave to cook for an additional two to three minutes, or until the center is fully cooked to your liking. 

Carefully remove your mug omelet from the microwave and serve with a piece of toast — or, if you’re like me, immediately grab a fork and go to town.

Get the recipe: Mug Omelets

Over five years have passed since I’ve made mug omelets, and I was worried I’d be greeted with mushy, bland eggs. But to my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed these. The flavor combinations that I made were honestly delicious. After finishing both mug omelets, I was ready to start my busy day. The microwave meal had surprisingly great flavor and left me with a minimum of dirty dishes. That makes this recipe an A+ in my book. 

Beyond using good-quality eggs and butter (cheers to Ina Garten), I encourage you to utilize any leftover vegetables or proteins that you have in your kitchen. Adding flavorful ingredients as mix-ins, like herbs, sausage, peppers, and a blend of delicious cheeses will give you more exciting omelets. Don’t worry, though, if you’re just a classic egg- and cheese-lover: This omelet will still impress.