The Pantry Staple That Gives You The Best Scrambled Eggs

Elevating scrambled eggs can be as easy as popping into your pantry. Chances are, you already have polenta hiding in your cupboard, and while it may seem unexpected, this ingredient works wonders in scrambled eggs. Polenta, which differs from grits, is a coarsely ground cornmeal that thickens your eggs, creating a heartier, more substantial dish. Add a splash of milk or cream, and you have a rich, creamy scramble with a subtle cornmeal flavor that screams comfort food.

There are two ways to incorporate polenta into your scrambled eggs. For a softer, mealy mouthfeel, cook the polenta using an easy, perfect polenta recipe, then stir in a spoonful or two of into your egg mixture before scrambling. Alternatively, you could use raw polenta for a pleasant grittiness and textural contrast. Simply sprinkle a teaspoon of raw polenta directly into your eggs before cooking. It's important to note that these estimated measurements are based on serving size, assuming you're cooking two scrambled eggs at a time. While some home cooks use a 50/50 ratio when mixing polenta into scrambled eggs, we prefer a more subtle approach. Ultimately, the amount of polenta is up to you, so add to taste.

Any polenta brand works, and you can experiment with add-ins to complement the main ingredients. Think cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onions. And if you can't find polenta in your cupboard, no worries! There are plenty of other pantry staples to add to this morning meal.

Polenta is just one of the unexpected additions you should try adding to scrambled eggs. You can mix and match pantry staples to create the scrambled eggs of your dreams. Just make sure that the flavors and textures complement rather than overpower one another.

If you're looking for another hearty ingredient that will stretch your morning meal, try diced potatoes (although they'll require a few extra minutes to cook through). If you prefer grab-and-go additions, several canned ingredients will improve your scrambled eggs. Beans instantly bulk up your eggs while adding protein and fiber. Canned proteins, like SPAM, chicken, or tuna, work equally well. Meanwhile, diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or peppers bring a healthy dose of vegetables to that morning plate.

When it's pure flavor you're after, head to your condiment collection. A sprinkle of hot sauces like Sriracha or Tabasco brings the heat, while pesto adds a rich, nutty depth, and soy sauce delivers an umami element. Don't overlook that spice rack either. Dried herbs brighten scrambled eggs, and warming spices like paprika, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder add a nice complexity.