Medium-low heat and a lid are the secret to sunny-side-up. Gentle heat sets the white without turning the bottom to rubber or brown lace, and a lid for the last thirty seconds steams a film over the yolk so it's cooked-looking but still runny.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep1 min
Cook4 min
Makes2 eggs
CuisineBasics
Cost$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains dairy · eggs
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for2eggs
Eggs
The fresher the egg, the tighter the white sits around the yolk. Deep-gold pasture yolks are best.
Can you make How to Fry an Egg in an air fryer? — Yes
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze How to Fry an Egg? — Not ideal
You can, but the crisp coating softens. Freeze the cooked pieces, then re-crisp them in a hot oven or air fryer — never the microwave.
Can you make How to Fry an Egg ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is How to Fry an Egg gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is How to Fry an Egg vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
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