How to Make a Classic American Omelette

Omelettes are the ultimate customizable breakfast dishes. Any leftover vegetables in your fridge can be put to good use in a simple meal, along with a sprinkle of cheese, herbs or bacon—anything goes!

 

Next time you’re cooking breakfast or brunch for family or friends, follow these six easy steps for a beautiful, perfectly cooked American-style omelette.

Classic American Omelette

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup water, milk or heavy cream
• 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded aged white cheddar cheese

 

 

Step 1: Whisk the eggs   In a large bowl, combine the eggs, water, lemon juice (if using) and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to beat the mixture just until well blended. (Too much air will affect the omelette’s texture). A folded dish towel under the bowl will help steady it while you whisk.

Step 2: Melt the butter   Place a 10-inch nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat and add the butter. When the butter has melted and the foam begins to subside, tilt the pan to distribute the butter evenly.

Step 3: Add the egg mixture   Pour the egg mixture into the pan, using a silicone spatula to scrape all the ingredients from the bowl into the pan.

Step 4: Distribute the eggs evenly   Let the eggs cook for 30 seconds, then use the spatula to push the cooked eggs carefully toward the center, while keeping the eggs in an even layer. Tilt the pan so that the uncooked eggs will flow toward the edges and the omelette will cook evenly.

Step 5: Add the omelette fillings   When the eggs have set in an even layer and there is no more standing liquid, after about 4 minutes, scatter the green onions and cheese over half the omelette.

Step 6: Fold the omelette   Use the spatula to fold the untopped half of the omelette over the filled half to create a half circle. Let the omelette cook for about 30 seconds longer, then slide it out onto a warmed plate and serve right away. Serves 2.

 

 

Omelette with fine herbs

Follow the recipe to make the Classic Omelette. In step 1, add 1 tablespoon each minced fresh chervil, finely snipped fresh chives, minced fresh flat-leaf parsley and minced fresh tarragon to the eggs. Proceed with the recipe, omitting the cheese and onions.

 

Tomato and avocado omelette with cilantro

Follow the recipe to make the Classic Omelette. In step 5, replace the green onions with 1/4 cup finely chopped tomato and replace the cheese with 1/2 cup diced avocado. Proceed with the recipe. Garnish the finished omelette with 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro.

 

Asparagus and Gruyère Omelette

Blanch 12 oz. asparagus, cut into 1-inch lengths, and set aside. Follow the recipe to make the Classic Omelette. In step 5, replace the onions with the blanched asparagus and replace the cheddar cheese with Gruyère cheese. Proceed with the recipe.

 

See more of our popular omelette recipes below: 

 

• Omelette with Caramelized Onions, Mushrooms and Avocado
• Bacon and Cheddar Omelette for Six
• Philly Cheesesteak Omelette with Onions and Bell Peppers