spicy tomato sauce

Easy Shakshuka Classic — North African Egg is my go to meal for those days when you open the fridge, feel tired, and still want something that tastes like you actually tried. It hits that sweet spot between cozy and impressive, even though it’s mostly pantry stuff and a few eggs. I started making it on busy weeknights, and now I also lean on it for lazy weekend brunch. The best part is you get a bubbling tomato sauce that’s perfect for dipping, plus runny yolks if you want them. If you’ve ever needed dinner to feel comforting fast, you’re in the right place.

What is Shakshuka?

Shakshuka is a simple, homey dish where eggs are gently cooked right in a warm, spiced tomato and pepper sauce. It’s popular across North Africa and the Middle East, and it’s one of those recipes that feels like it belongs everywhere because it uses everyday ingredients. I like it because it’s flexible. You can make it mild, spicy, chunky, smooth, loaded with veggies, or kept super classic.

When people ask me what it tastes like, I usually say: rich tomato sauce, a little sweetness from peppers, a little smoky warmth from spices, and creamy egg all in one bite. It’s also the kind of meal that magically makes bread taste even better because you’ll be scooping up every last bit.

And if you’re into egg based comfort food in general, you might also like this deliciously easy deviled egg salad recipe. Different vibe, same egg loving energy.

Shakshuka Ingredients

You do not need anything fancy here. I’m giving you my regular list for Easy Shakshuka Classic — North African Egg, plus a few easy swaps so you can work with what you’ve got.

What you will need

• Olive oil, 1 to 2 tablespoons
• Onion, 1 small, diced
• Bell pepper, 1, diced (red is my favorite for sweetness)
• Garlic, 2 to 4 cloves, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes, 1 can (about 14 to 15 oz)
• Tomato paste, 1 to 2 tablespoons (optional but makes it richer)
• Spices: cumin, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne
• Salt and black pepper
• Eggs, 4 to 6 (depending on your pan and hunger level)
• Optional toppings: feta, chopped parsley or cilantro, sliced olives

A couple notes from my kitchen: if you only have whole canned tomatoes, just break them up with a spoon in the pan. If you have no bell pepper, you can still make it, but the pepper adds that mellow sweetness that balances the tomatoes. And if you’re nervous about heat, keep it mild and add spice at the table.

Also, if you’re meal planning and want more easy protein ideas for lunches, this delicious easy tuna egg salad recipe is one I make when I need something quick and filling.

How to Make Shakshuka

This is the part where you realize it’s basically one pan and a little patience. I’ve made Easy Shakshuka Classic — North African Egg in a fancy skillet and also in a beat up pan at a vacation rental. Both worked.

Step by step directions

1) Soften the veggies
Warm your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper with a pinch of salt. Cook until they look soft and smell sweet, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

2) Build the sauce
Add tomatoes and tomato paste if using. Sprinkle in cumin and paprika, plus a little chili flake if you want. Stir and let it simmer. You’re looking for a gentle bubble, not a wild splatter. Cook 8 to 12 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens a bit. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

3) Make little egg nests
Use a spoon to make small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each one. I crack into a small bowl first if I’m trying to be neat, but on normal days I just go for it.

4) Cover and cook
Cover the pan and cook on low to medium low until the whites are set. For runny yolks, start checking around 5 minutes. For firmer yolks, go closer to 8 to 10 minutes. If the sauce looks too thick at any point, splash in a tablespoon or two of water.

5) Finish and serve
Turn off the heat. Add feta, herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. Then bring the pan to the table if you can, because it’s just fun like that.

“I tried this on a Wednesday when I had zero energy. My kids ate it with toast, I ate it straight from the pan, and everyone asked for it again. It’s officially in the rotation.”

If you like cozy one pot dinners, you might also enjoy this cozy Instant Pot homestyle chicken and veggies for those nights you want comfort without a sink full of dishes.

What to Serve with Shakshuka?

For me, the must have is something to scoop with. The sauce is too good to leave behind. Here are my favorite pairings, depending on what kind of day it is.

• Crusty bread or warm pita for dipping
• Rice if you want it extra filling
• Roasted potatoes or even hash browns for brunch vibes
• Simple cucumber salad with lemon and salt to cool things down
• Fresh fruit on the side if you are serving this for breakfast

If you’re putting together a casual brunch spread, I love something sweet nearby too. This easy ambrosia salad classic fluffy fruit salad is old school in the best way and makes the table feel a little more fun.

And if you’re the kind of person who likes to end brunch with a little treat, keep this bookmarked for later: delicious classic Christmas toffee that is easy to make. I know it says Christmas, but honestly I’d eat toffee anytime.

Common Questions

Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?

Yes. Make the sauce ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to eat, reheat the sauce in a pan, then crack in the eggs and cook fresh so the eggs stay tender.

How do I keep the eggs from overcooking?

Lower the heat once the eggs go in and cover the pan. Start checking early. Eggs go from perfect to overdone fast, and every stove is a little different.

Is Easy Shakshuka Classic — North African Egg spicy?

It can be, but it does not have to be. Skip the chili flakes and use just cumin and paprika for a mellow version. You can always add heat at the table with hot sauce.

Can I add extra veggies or protein?

Absolutely. I often toss in spinach at the end, or add mushrooms with the onions. For protein, cooked chickpeas or a bit of sausage is great. Just do not crowd the pan too much or the eggs will be harder to place.

What pan works best?

A wide skillet with a lid is ideal. If you do not have a lid, use a baking sheet over the top. Cast iron works great, but any sturdy pan is fine.

My favorite way to make it yours

After you make Easy Shakshuka Classic — North African Egg once, you’ll probably start tweaking it without even thinking. Some days I add feta and olives for a salty bite, other days I keep it super simple with just herbs. If I’m cooking for someone who loves heat, I’ll add more chili and a pinch of smoked paprika. The only real rule is to let the sauce simmer long enough to taste rich, then treat the eggs gently.

And yes, I still mess it up occasionally. Once I got distracted and overcooked the yolks. Still delicious, just a different vibe. That’s kind of the charm here. It’s forgiving, it’s one pan, and it makes regular eggs feel special.

Ready to make this for dinner tonight?

If you want to compare styles, I’ve found it helpful to look at other reliable versions like Shakshuka (North African–Style Poached Eggs in Spicy Tomato … and Shakshuka Recipe (Easy and Authentic) – The Mediterranean Dish. Then come back to your own kitchen and make it fit your taste. Keep your pantry stocked with tomatoes and spices, and you’re never far from a good meal. I hope you try Easy Shakshuka Classic — North African Egg soon, and I really hope you eat it straight from the pan at least once because that is part of the fun.