Egg patties are a popular breakfast item found on many restaurant menus and freezer aisles. But what exactly are egg patties made of? Here is a comprehensive look at the ingredients and nutritional profile of egg patties.
The Main Ingredients
The primary ingredient in egg patties is, not surprisingly, eggs. Specifically, egg patties are made by combining whole eggs, egg whites, or a blend of the two. This gives the patties their signature egg flavor and color.
In addition to eggs, egg patties typically contain:
- Milk or cream – This adds moisture and richness to the patties.
- Flour or breadcrumbs – These ingredients help bind the patties together and absorb excess moisture.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning the patties.
- Onion or chives – Small amounts of minced onion or chives are sometimes added for extra flavor (this is especially common in homemade egg patties).
- Oil or butter – A small amount of oil or butter is used to cook the patties.
So in summary, the main ingredients are eggs, milk/cream, flour/breadcrumbs, seasonings, and cooking fat. The specific proportions of each ingredient can vary between recipes, but eggs are always the star of the show.
Are Egg Patties Healthy?
Compared to some other breakfast items like sausage patties or bacon, egg patties are relatively healthy. Here is a look at their nutritional profile:
Calories: A 2-3 inch egg patty contains around 80-120 calories, depending on size. This is lower than an equivalent serving of meat.
Protein: With 6-8 grams of protein per patty, egg patties are an excellent source of this important nutrient.
Fat: Egg patties contain around 5-8 grams of fat per patty. About half of this fat is the heart-healthy monounsaturated kind found in egg yolks.
Carbs: There are minimal carbs in plain egg patties, usually less than 1 gram per patty.
Cholesterol: Each egg patty contains around 125-190 mg of cholesterol. The daily recommended limit is 300 mg.
| Nutrient | Amount in 1 Egg Patty (70g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 0.5g |
| Cholesterol | 185mg |
So in moderation, plain egg patties can be part of a balanced diet. They provide protein, nutrients, and less saturated fat compared to meats. However, those with dietary cholesterol concerns may want to limit intake to 1-2 patties per day.
Are They Gluten Free?
Plain egg patties made only with eggs, dairy, and seasonings are inherently gluten-free. However, some commercial brands add small amounts of wheat flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the patties. So if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, be sure to read ingredient lists carefully and look for a gluten-free claim before purchasing.
Many brands that aren’t labeled gluten-free use corn or rice flour instead of wheat flour, making them safe for gluten-free diets. But again – when in doubt, check the ingredients.
Buying Pre-Made vs. Homemade
You can purchase pre-made frozen egg patties from most grocery stores. Major brands like Jimmy Dean, Bob Evans, and Great Day Farms are commonly available. There are also options sold refrigerated rather than frozen.
Alternatively, making egg patties at home is quick and easy:
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 3 tbsp milk or cream
- 2 tbsp flour or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
- 1 tsp butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Whisk eggs, milk/cream, flour, salt and pepper in a bowl until fully combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter or oil.
- Pour egg mixture into skillet, making 5-6 evenly sized patties.
- Cook 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned and cooked through.
Homemade allows you to control the quality of ingredients. You can use organic eggs, real dairy, and minimize added preservatives. The downside is that homemade patties don’t keep as long. So plan to freeze any extras immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Egg patties are very versatile – here are some ideas for how to enjoy them:
- On an English muffin or biscuit for a sandwich
- Alongside breakfast meats like bacon or sausage
- On a bed of sautéed veggies for extra nutrition
- Topped with sliced avocado and hot sauce
- Served with cheese melted on top
- On a lettuce wrap for a lower carb option
- Chopped up in a breakfast hash or skillet
Get creative and come up with your own ways to serve them too! They make a satisfying protein-packed addition to any breakfast.
Storage and Freezing
Raw egg patties can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days before cooking. Tightly wrap cooked egg patties and use within 3-4 days.
For longer term storage, freeze cooked egg patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Properly frozen they will keep for 2-3 months.
Thaw frozen patties in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat gently either in the microwave or a lightly greased skillet until warmed through.
Conclusion
Egg patties can be a nutritious and protein-packed addition to any breakfast lineup. They are made primarily of eggs, along with dairy, flour, and seasonings. Store-bought or homemade varieties are convenient, customizable, and freeze well too. So consider keeping a stash of egg patties in your freezer for quick and healthy breakfasts!