Huevos Ree-Os: A Lively Twist on Classic Ranch-Style Eggs
Toast with a crispy cheese edge and runny yolk makes mornings hearty and hassle-free.
Introducing Huevos Ree-Os
It’s 9 a.m., you’ve been up since five, and a doughnut just won’t cut it. Enter Huevos Ree-Os, Ree Drummond’s twist on the classic ranch-style eggs—huevos rancheros—morphed into a cheesy, crispy, lightning-fast breakfast. This article explores how to create Drummond’s “not-quite-huevos-rancheros” at home, why this recipe is a kitchen superstar, and how it differs from the traditional Mexican favorite.
What Are Huevos Rancheros?
Huevos rancheros, literally “ranch eggs,” are a staple of Mexican cuisine traditionally featuring fried eggs laid atop warm corn tortillas, smothered in a zesty red salsa (ranchero sauce), and often accompanied by refried beans. The dish is hearty, spirited, and customizable, but it’s not always quick—especially when your stomach is rumbling at 9:15 a.m.
What Gives Huevos Ree-Os Their Special Flair?
Ree Drummond nicknamed her creation “Huevos Ree-Os” as a cheeky nod to the original and to clarify: These eggs are close cousins, but not quite the real deal. So, what’s the scoop?
- Corn Tortillas? Nope—this time, it’s toast. Plain, white, toasted bread is the base in Ree’s version.
- Salsa Ranchera? Not today. Instead, she opts for American cheese slices melted directly onto the eggs, creating a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Cooking Time: The whole dish comes together in about five minutes, making it perfect for mornings when speed is essential.
How to Make Huevos Ree-Os
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1–2 slices of bread (Ree uses plain white sandwich bread, but any favorite bread works)
- 1–2 slices of American cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- Butter or oil for the pan
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Toast the Bread: While the pan heats, toast your bread slices until golden.
- Cook the Eggs: Add a pat of butter or a drizzle of oil to the hot skillet. Crack the eggs directly into the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the whites are mostly set but the yolks are still runny—Ree prefers her yolks “just barely set.”
- Add the Cheese: Immediately lay a slice of cheese over each yolk. The thinner the cheese is sliced, the quicker it will melt without overcooking the yolks. Ree loves experimenting with different cheeses—use your favorite melting cheese!
- Melt and Crisp: Let the eggs sit undisturbed as the cheese melts and, ideally, gets a little crispy around the edges. This should take just a couple of minutes—watch closely so your yolks don’t overcoagulate.
- Serve Hot: Slide the cheesy eggs onto your waiting toast. If you want a little extra, add a sprinkle of hot sauce or a dash of salsa.
Why This Dish Works
Ree Drummond’s Huevos Ree-Os is a riff on a classic, but it’s not meant to replace authentic huevos rancheros. Instead, it’s a tribute to the spirit of ranch-style eggs: quick, hearty, and satisfying. The recipe is especially valuable for anyone who:
- Loves cheesy eggs but doesn’t want a fussy breakfast
- Wants a protein-packed start without spending half the morning in the kitchen
- Needs a “breakfast-for-dinner” option that feels indulgent yet achievable
The crispy cheese, melty yolk, and crunchy toast are a textural joy ride—simple, yet far from boring.
Comparing Huevos Ree-Os and Traditional Huevos Rancheros
What others are reading
| Feature | Huevos Rancheros | Huevos Ree-Os |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Eggs cooked sunny-side up or over easy | Eggs cooked your way, topped with melted cheese |
| Base | Corn tortillas (sometimes fried) | Plain, toasted bread |
| Sauce | Red ranchero sauce or salsa | None; melted cheese acts as flavor layer |
| Toppings | Beans, avocado, queso fresco, cilantro, crema | Optional hot sauce or salsa |
| Time | 15-30 minutes, depending on prep | About 5 minutes |
| Origin | Traditional Mexican breakfast | Ree Drummond’s playful American riff |
Variations and Customizations
Ree Drummond is all about making recipes your own. Here’s how you can tweak Huevos Ree-Os for your taste:
- Cheese Choices: Swap American for cheddar, pepper jack, or even Swiss. Each cheese brings a new vibe.
- Bread: Use sourdough, whole wheat, baguette, or even tortillas for a closer nod to the original.
- Egg Doneness: Prefer scrambled? No problem. Scramble right in the pan and top with cheese, then spoon onto toast.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Protein: Crispy bacon, sausage, or ham can turn this into a heartier meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Ree Drummond’s Huevos Ree-Os are a regular in her kitchen because they’re fast, filling, and endlessly adaptable. They’re also a great entry point for anyone intimidated by traditional huevos rancheros, which require multiple components and careful timing. Here, you get the same comfort and protein in a fraction of the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread and ensure your cheese is gluten-free (most American cheeses are, but check labels for additives).
Q: Can I add a salad on the side?
Certainly. A simple green salad, fresh tomato slices, or avocado can round out the meal and add freshness.
Q: How can I keep the yolks runny?
The key is to add the cheese as soon as the egg whites are set but the yolks are still jiggly. The cheese will melt quickly, protecting the yolks from overcooking.
Q: What if I don’t like American cheese?
Any melty cheese works! Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Q: Is this suitable for meal prep?
Best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients (toast bread, grate cheese) for faster assembly in the morning.
Ree’s Final Thoughts
Ree Drummond’s Huevos Ree-Os are not huevos rancheros—if you serve them to a Tex-Mex purist, expect a raised eyebrow—but they are delicious, fast, and infinitely adjustable. They’re a testament to the joy of cooking: sometimes, the best recipes are the ones you invent when you’re hungry, short on time, and in need of something cheesy, cozy, and satisfying.
Explore Similar Breakfast Recipes
If you love eggs, toast, and cheese, you might also enjoy:
- Classic Migas
- Loaded Breakfast Hash
- Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
- Baked Egg Toast
- Breakfast Burritos
In Summary
Huevos Ree-Os are Ree Drummond’s “cheat” huevos rancheros—a fast, cheesy, crispy, and utterly satisfying breakfast that, while not traditional, brings all the comfort and joy of the original with a fraction of the work. Whether you’re a ranch-style egg purist or a busy home cook in search of a quick fix, this recipe is worth a spot in your morning rotation.
References
- https://www.aspicyperspective.com/best-huevos-rancheros-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a40189020/huevos-rancheros-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a8880/huevos-ree-os/
- https://favoriterecipesofmaverickswaniel.wordpress.com/2015/12/26/huevos-rancheros-the-pioneer-woman-cooks-dinnertime-2015-pages-6-7/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39095033/egg-recipes/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
