How to Make an Omelet That Won't Fall Apart
Omelet recipes are always a crowd-pleaser at breakfast and brunch. One of our favorite parts of this basic breakfast recipe is how easily you can change it up—you can add just about any fillings you want, use egg whites instead of whole eggs, and even switch up how you flip it. Don't stress about the flip (or fold), we know that's the intimidating part of the process, but we'll walk you through it. Our instructions will show you how to make an egg and cheese omelet (the simplest combo), but you can easily change up the filling to include ample veggies, cooked meats, beans, herbs, anything you want.
Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine two eggs with 2 tablespoons of water. If you want to know how to make an egg white omelet instead, just use four egg whites instead of two whole eggs. Add salt and pepper to taste, then use a fork to beat until the eggs are combined but not frothy. Meanwhile, heat a small (about 8-inch) nonstick skillet with flared sides over medium-high heat until hot. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet, then add the eggs and reduce the heat to medium.
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Test Kitchen Tip: Make sure you reduce the heat to medium as soon as you add the eggs—this will prevent the bottom of your omelet from getting too brown as it cooks.
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Cook Eggs
Immediately begin stirring the eggs gently but continuously with a heat-resistant spatula. Stir until the mixture resembles small pieces of cooked egg surrounded by liquid egg. Stop stirring and cook 30 to 60 seconds more, or until the eggs are set and shiny.
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Add Filling
Now for the fun part—adding your favorite filling! Our most basic recipe just uses cheese, but there are tons of other options out there. Omelets are great for using up your leftover meat and veggies from the night before. Knowing how to make an egg omelet with ham will come in handy because it's a popular request, but you could also try bacon, sausage, or even smoked salmon for other meat options.
Cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, onions, and peppers are popular choices for veggie omelets, but you can add any combo you want. Remember, you're not limited to cheddar for cheese omelets, either—mix up your morning routine by using mozzarella, Parmesan, or feta instead. Depending on how you're planning to flip your omelet, add your fillings to one half, or spread them straight down the middle.
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How to Flip an Omelet
If you placed your filling on one side of the eggs, use a heatproof spatula to fold the other half of the omelet over the top of the filling. For a slightly fancier, French-style omelet, use your spatula to lift and fold an edge of the omelet about a third of the way toward the center. Fold the opposite omelet edge toward the center (this will cover fillings spread down the middle). Transfer to a warm plate (if you planned ahead enough to warm a plate, which is a good idea if you're going to make another omelet) and serve.
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Test Kitchen Tip: For the easiest flip, make sure to use a flexible heatproof spatula and not a stiffer pancake turner. The flexible edge will make it a little easier to slide your spatula under the eggs on one side.
Omelet fun doesn't quite end when you transfer it to your plate. While omelet fillings get most of the attention, you can dress up your breakfast or brunch even more by adding toppings. Try adding tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist, fresh salsa to bring the heat, or even a dollop of sour cream. You can also try topping with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, Italian parsley, or dill. Get creative—for a fun brunch party, you could even set up a DIY omelet bar with a variety of fillings, cheeses, and toppers.
