How to Make Your Scrambled Eggs Better, According to Professional Chefs

Have you ever wondered how to replicate those perfect scrambled eggs from your favorite brunch spot? What's the trick to getting them so fluffy and flavorful? Some people believe the key to the best scrambled eggs is what you mix in them or what they're topped with. While those factors are certainly essential, many people don't realize that the method by which eggs are cooked can make all the difference.

Whether you're an amateur chef or someone who rarely cooks, whipping up a classic scramble may seem straightforward, but there are a few proper cooking methods that can help you achieve those silky, mouthwatering eggs every time. Here are all the upgrades, toppings, and recipes you need to make your scrambled eggs better.

How to Make Better Scrambled Eggs at Home

Follow the below advice from professional chefs to make superior scrambled eggs from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Implement a Pre-Cook Process

In order to cook amazing scrambled eggs that don't get rubbery or overdone, it's crucial that the eggs retain moisture during the cooking process. One of the ways to help the eggs stay moist is by pre-salting them. Salt helps the egg itself retain moisture during the cooking process. Another way to give your eggs a moisture boost is to add a splash of milk, broth, water, or cream.

To help enhance your eggs, Kevin Templeton, executive chef of Barleymash, suggests adding some heavy cream or half-and-half when whipping them up. "Usually, 1 tablespoon per 2 eggs is enough. You could also use cold water if you have a dairy allergy," Templeton shares. Adding a small amount of liquid to your eggs before cooking them ensures you will have fluffy, moist eggs at the end of your cooking process.

Consider Your Tools

There are a couple of tools you should be using to make the best scrambled eggs. A nonstick skillet is essential. Yes, you can probably get away with using any old skillet you've greased with butter. However, when the eggs stick to the pan, they tend to get crusty and dry.

Maybe you've been making scrambled eggs with a wooden spoon or hard plastic spatula, but a soft silicone spatula is the way to go. Eggs are delicate, so you need a tool that allows you to be gentle while agitating them during cooking. Also, because it's flexible, a silicone spatula will enable you to really get into the curves of the pan and scoop the eggs back into the center.

Cook Scrambled Eggs on Low Heat

Eggs may seem like the easiest thing to make, but the truth is, the perfect soft scramble requires a bit of practice and a lot of patience. Most people cook their eggs for far too long or on high heat, which is why they might taste dry and bland.

Christopher Koetke, Executive Chef at Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America, says it's all about how long the eggs are cooked. "The key is to cook the eggs to a gentle curd that retain enough moisture so they're soft and succulent," he shares. Koetke suggests cooking them over moderate to low heat so they cook slowly, and you can better control the consistency.

Don’t Leave Scrambled Eggs on the Stove Too Long

Chef Markee Manaloto of the Gugu Room has an alternative method. "To make the best scrambled eggs, heat a pan with oil and crack the eggs directly into the pan—one by one. Then, over a bit of heat, scramble the eggs with either a spatula or chopsticks for 30 seconds and then remove from the stove." Manaloto explains that removing the pan from the heat will help prevent overcooking the eggs and give them more volume.

Make Soft Scrambled Eggs by Moving the Pan

If you're someone who prefers their eggs on the softer side, chef and owner, Diana Manalang uses a combination of olive oil and butter over medium-low heat and makes sure to constantly stir the eggs. Manalang recommends keeping the heat medium-low to ensure the pan stays warm (not hot) and to "make sure the eggs are moving to stay custardy and not overcook."

Use a Whisk To Make Fluffy Scrambled Eggs

Templeton mentions that the key to fluffy, vibrant eggs is to make sure they're properly blended. In a pinch, a fork will work, but a whisk is a much better tool for mixing. Whisking ensures that your egg whites and yolks will be fully blended and that your mixture will have enough air incorporated to make it fluffy. You want to use some elbow grease when whisking until the eggs froth up a bit. Not into manual labor? Try using an immersion blender!

Don’t Season Scrambled Eggs Right Away

It's also important to note that seasoning your eggs is key for maximizing flavor, but don't season your eggs as soon as they hit the pan. Instead, once your eggs are nearly cooked, sprinkle some flaky sea salt and add some fresh cracked pepper throughout.

Scrambled Egg Toppings

When it comes to topping your scrambled eggs, there's really no wrong answer. Of course, nothing is better than eggs and cheese, but there are countless combinations that are absolutely heavenly.

Try adding a balance of fresh vegetables, cheese, fresh herbs, and seasoning. Some delicious variations include:

• Tomatoes and Cheddar cheese
• Asparagus, chives, and goat cheese
• Bacon, sautéed onion, and Gruyere

Scrambled Egg Recipes

Now that you know exactly how to elevate the perfect plate of scrambled eggs, upgrade your breakfast even more with these easy scrambled egg recipes.

Parmigiano-Reggiano Scrambled Eggs

Want to know the secret to adding layers of depth and flavor to your standard scrambled eggs? Hint: It's just two simple ingredients: butter and freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. The butter helps make the eggs silky, while the Parm adds a delectable saltiness.

Fried Rice Scramble

If your favorite part of fried rice is the bits of scrambled egg, you're going to love this dish. The eggs certainly are the star of this recipe, but Asian-inspired ingredients like carrots, cabbage, and crispy brown rice help make it hearty. It also has incredible umami courtesy of the sesame oil and soy sauce.

Loaded Scrambled Eggs

There's nothing quite like scrambled eggs that are filled with delicious, savory cheese, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This filling dish hits the spot with ingredients like Cheddar, peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley.