Scotch eggs are a beloved British classic that perfectly combine the rich flavors of crispy, golden breadcrumbs, flavorful sausage, and tender hardboiled eggs. While their exact origins are debated, it is widely believed that the famous London department store Fortnum & Mason invented Scotch eggs in 1738 as a portable snack for travelers. However, some theories suggest influences from Mughlai cuisine, particularly the Indian dish Nargisi Kofta, which features spiced minced meat wrapped around a boiled egg and served in a gravy. Regardless of their beginnings, Scotch eggs have since become a popular staple in British pubs, picnics, and homes worldwide.
Growing up, I always loved hardboiled eggs but didn’t discover Scotch eggs until I met my husband, who was a big fan. He introduced me to the concept, and I quickly fell in love with the crispy, savory treat. Over time, I tweaked the original recipe he used to make it slightly healthier yet just as delicious. Traditionally, Scotch eggs are deep-fried, resulting in an irresistibly crunchy coating. However, I opted for baking them instead to cut down on excess grease, as the sausage itself provides enough fat for a juicy, flavorful bite. The result is a lighter—but still crispy—version that makes for an excellent snack, appetizer, or light meal.
One of the best things about Scotch eggs is their versatility. They are perfect for preparing in advance, making them a fantastic addition to picnics or road trips. Since they are protein-packed and filling, they make a satisfying snack that keeps well during travel. Additionally, homemade Scotch eggs allow for endless customization. While my base recipe keeps it simple with ground pork, onion, and classic seasonings, you can easily experiment with different flavors. Adding sage, garlic, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish with more depth and spice. Some people even use alternative meats such as turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner variation.
The process of making Scotch eggs is fairly straightforward but requires a bit of patience. First, hardboiled eggs are carefully peeled and dusted with flour to help the sausage mixture adhere properly. Each egg is then wrapped in a layer of seasoned ground pork, ensuring full coverage before being dipped in beaten eggs and rolled in breadcrumbs for that signature crispy shell. Baking at 400°F ensures a perfectly golden-brown crust without the need for deep-frying while still achieving a wonderful crunch.
Whether served warm or at room temperature, these baked Scotch eggs are an excellent addition to any meal. They pair beautifully with a side salad, some tangy mustard, or even a dollop of homemade chutney for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a delicious, protein-rich dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying, these Crispy Scotch Eggs are sure to become a favorite in your household—just as they have in ours.
Crispy Scotch Eggs
Ingredients
12 medium eggs - hardboiled- 2 pounds ground pork (minced pork)
- 1 cup yellow onion - finely chopped
- ½ cup all purpose flour (plain flour Australia and UK)
- 4 medium eggs - beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel the hardboiled eggs and set them aside.
- Mix the sausage and onions together well. Divide into 12 equal portions.
- Roll each egg in the flour and then wrap with sausage mixture.
- Dip the wrapped eggs into the beaten eggs and then roll in bread crumbs.
- Place each wrapped egg on the baking sheet and place it in the oven.
- Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the breadcrumbs are browned, and the sausage is cooked thoroughly.
- The traditional method of cooking scotch eggs is to fry them. However, I decided to bake them to cut down on the grease as the sausage provides enough on its own. You can also further spice them up with sage, garlic or other add-ins to make it your own. Enjoy!
