Save This hearty Pickle-Fix Dill Egg Biscuit Nests recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive brunch centerpiece. The combination of flaky biscuit cups filled with creamy dill-infused scrambled eggs and topped with tangy pickles creates a perfect balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
I first created these savory nests when hosting a last-minute brunch gathering. My refrigerator was sparse except for eggs, pickles, and a tube of biscuit dough. What started as kitchen improvisation has become my most requested breakfast recipe when friends visit.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: creates the perfect flaky nest without the fuss of making dough from scratch
- Eggs: provide protein and create a creamy filling that pairs beautifully with the tangy pickles
- Fresh dill: adds bright herbaceous notes that elevate the entire dish look for vibrant green bunches without yellowing
- Dill pickles: bring acidity and crunch that cuts through the richness of the eggs choose crisp refrigerated pickles rather than shelf-stable for best texture
- Butter: adds richness to both the biscuit cups and scrambled eggs use unsalted to control the salt level
- Cheddar cheese: optional but recommended for a savory depth that complements the dill and pickles
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:
- Preheat your oven to exactly 375°F and generously grease the muffin tin making sure to coat the sides well to prevent sticking. A light coating of cooking spray works perfectly but butter will add more flavor.
- Create Biscuit Nests:
- Take each refrigerated biscuit round and gently flatten between your palms until it's about 4 inches in diameter. Press each flattened round into a muffin cup working the dough up the sides to form a nest shape. The dough should extend slightly above the rim of each cup.
- Par-Bake the Biscuit Cups:
- Brush the rims and insides of each biscuit nest with melted butter using a gentle touch to avoid tearing the dough. Bake for precisely 8 minutes until the dough has set but hasn't started to brown significantly. This partial baking ensures the biscuits won't become soggy when filled.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- While the biscuits are par-baking whisk the eggs vigorously until completely uniform in color. Add the milk fresh dill salt and pepper whisking again until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth with tiny flecks of dill distributed evenly throughout.
- Cook Perfect Scrambled Eggs:
- Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat until it begins to foam but not brown. Pour in the egg mixture and let it set for 30 seconds before slowly dragging a silicone spatula across the bottom of the pan creating soft folds. Continue this gentle folding motion until eggs are just barely set but still glossy and moist. They will finish cooking in the oven.
- Fill and Finish Baking:
- Spoon the creamy scrambled eggs into each partially baked biscuit nest dividing evenly among all cups. If using cheese sprinkle a small amount over each filled nest. Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 7 to 9 minutes until the biscuit edges are golden brown and the eggs are completely set.
- Add Final Toppings:
- Allow the nests to cool in the pan for 2 minutes before carefully removing them using a butter knife to gently loosen the edges. Top each nest with a generous pinch of finely diced pickles and a small sprig of fresh dill for visual appeal and bright flavor.
Save The pickle is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered this combination when my grandmother served her famous dill pickles alongside scrambled eggs one summer morning. The bright acidity of the pickles cut through the richness of the eggs in a way that made perfect sense. Now I can't imagine eating these biscuit nests without that tangy pickle finish.
Make-Ahead Options
These savory nests can be partially prepared in advance to make your morning routine easier. Par-bake the biscuit cups the night before and store them covered at room temperature. The egg mixture can be whisked and refrigerated overnight in an airtight container. In the morning simply cook the eggs fill the cups and complete the final baking step. This approach saves valuable time while still delivering that freshly baked quality.
For completely assembled leftovers store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch but the biscuits will lose some of their delightful crispness.
Flavor Variations
The basic recipe provides a wonderful canvas for creative adaptations. For a Mediterranean twist substitute feta cheese for cheddar and top with diced kalamata olives instead of pickles. A southwestern version works beautifully with the addition of chopped roasted green chilies and pepper jack cheese topped with diced avocado.
For an elevated brunch experience consider adding a small piece of smoked salmon on top of each nest along with a tiny dollop of crème fraîche. The smokiness pairs wonderfully with the dill and pickle components while adding sophisticated flair to your presentation.
Vegetable lovers can fold sautéed spinach mushrooms or bell peppers into the scrambled eggs before filling the nests. Just be sure to cook out any excess moisture from the vegetables first to prevent soggy biscuits.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile biscuit nests pair beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments. For a complete brunch spread serve alongside a fresh fruit salad dressed with honey and mint. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich eggs and buttery biscuits.
For beverage pairings consider serving with a spicy Bloody Mary garnished with a pickle spear to echo the flavors in the nests. Coffee lovers will appreciate how the acidity in a medium roast coffee complements the tangy pickle topping while tea enthusiasts might enjoy a bright breakfast blend or even an herbal mint tea.
Save These biscuit nests are a delightful addition to any brunch or breakfast table, offering a savory and satisfying bite that's both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you keep the eggs creamy inside the nests?
Scramble the eggs over low heat until just set but still soft, then finish baking inside the biscuit nests for a creamy center.
- → Can I use fresh biscuits instead of canned dough?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough can be shaped and used in place of refrigerated dough for a more rustic texture.
- → Are there alternatives to dill?
Chives or parsley can be substituted for dill if preferred, bringing a slightly different herbal note to the dish.
- → What toppings work well besides pickles?
Cheddar cheese is optional, but you can also add a dollop of sour cream, hot sauce, or extra fresh herbs for more flavor.
- → How do I prevent the biscuit dough from sticking to the muffin tin?
Lightly grease the muffin tin before pressing in the dough to ensure easy removal after baking.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these biscuit nests use eggs and dairy but contain no meat, making them vegetarian-friendly.