As soon as the oven timer dings, my kitchen is enveloped in a rich, cheesy aroma that transports me to the streets of Georgia. I’m talking about Easy Khachapuri—a warm, inviting dish that’s truly a feast for the senses. Imagine a golden, gooey center packed with a delightful blend of mozzarella and feta cheeses, all cradled within a crispy crust made from premade pizza dough. This delectable cheese boat is crowned with a fresh egg yolk, just waiting for you to mix it into the melty goodness.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend indulgence, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s not just easy; it’s the perfect addition to your comfort food repertoire, satisfying those cravings without the fuss of time-consuming preparation. With every bite, you’ll be met with a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will make you forget all about fast food. So, let’s dive in and embrace the warm embrace of homemade goodness with this Easy Khachapuri!
Why is Easy Khachapuri the ultimate comfort food?
Comforting and Indulgent: Each bite of this Easy Khachapuri is like a warm hug, oozing with cheesy goodness that satisfies cravings for comfort food.
Quick Preparation: With premade pizza dough, it simplifies your cooking process—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or veggies, making it a dish everyone can enjoy.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, the interactive element of mixing the egg yolk adds fun for all ages.
Hearty Yet Light: Despite its indulgence, its lighter base of dough allows you to enjoy this dish without feeling weighed down—making it a win-win!
Easy Khachapuri Ingredients
• This delightful dish comes together with simple ingredients, making preparation a breeze!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Perfect for dusting, it prevents the dough from sticking when shaping.
- Pizza dough – The star base of this Easy Khachapuri; store-bought versions make it quick and easy.
For the Cheese Filling
- Part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, offering that stretchy goodness; swap for full-fat for a richer flavor.
- Crumbled feta cheese – Adds a delicious tang; ricotta can be substituted if you prefer a milder taste.
For the Egg Topping
- Large Pete & Gerry’s Organic Pasture Raised Egg – The key ingredient, creating a creamy richness in each bite.
- Large Pete & Gerry’s Organic Pasture Raised Egg yolks – Freshness is crucial for that luscious, vibrant flavor.
For Extra Flavor
- Unsalted butter – Enhances the dish’s richness; olive oil can be a lighter alternative.
How to Make Easy Khachapuri
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Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough package instructions, usually around 425°F. This ensures a perfect baking environment for your Easy Khachapuri.
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Dust a clean surface with all-purpose flour to prevent sticking, and roll out the pizza dough into a boat shape, maintaining a thick outer border. This shape will cradle all that cheesy goodness!
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Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps avoid any sticky situations, making cleanup a breeze.
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Sprinkle part-skim mozzarella and crumbled feta cheese inside the dough, creating a little well in the center for the egg later on. Let that cheesy goodness begin!
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Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is deliciously melted. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma.
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Remove the khachapuri from the oven and carefully crack the egg into the center well. Return it to the oven and bake until the egg is set to your liking—about 5 more minutes should do the trick!
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Drop in small pieces of unsalted butter on top of the cheese and egg right before serving, allowing it to melt and enrich the flavors even more. Serve it hot for the ultimate experience.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Khachapuri?
Pairing your Easy Khachapuri with delightful sides can elevate your meal to new heights.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of khachapuri, adding brightness.
- Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, herby yogurt dip complements the cheesy boat perfectly—just the right zing for your taste buds.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies adds a hearty touch while enhancing your plate with color and nutrition.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweet caramelization and tender texture contrast beautifully with the savory khachapuri, creating a satisfying bite.
- Pickled Radishes: Their sharp tang offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Sparkling Water or Herbal Tea: A bubbly drink like sparkling water keeps the meal light, or opt for a soothing herbal tea for a warm finish.
- Pomegranate Seeds: Sprinkling these juicy gems over your khachapuri adds a burst of flavor and a pretty presentation that’s sure to impress.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse can be the perfect sweet ending, balancing the savory cheesiness beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Khachapuri
Fridge: Store leftover Easy Khachapuri in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to retain quality.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes. For a quicker method, use a microwave, though the crust may not be as crispy.
Avoid sogginess: If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the delicious texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Khachapuri are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can roll out the pizza dough into the boat shape up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, you can pre-mix the mozzarella and feta cheese, portioning it out into a container to store for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the khachapuri by placing the cheese inside the dough, baking it until golden, and cracking the egg on top for the final touch. This way, you’ll get fresh, restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Easy Khachapuri
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Room Temperature Dough: Ensure your pizza dough is at room temperature for easier rolling and shaping. Cold dough can be difficult to work with.
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Watch the Egg: Monitor the baking time closely after adding the egg. This prevents overcooking, allowing for that perfect runny yolk we all love in Easy Khachapuri.
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Parchment Paper: Always use parchment paper on your baking sheet to avoid sticking and make cleanup a breeze—no one likes a stuck khachapuri!
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, organic eggs for the best flavor and richness. Fresh eggs enhance the overall creaminess of your Easy Khachapuri.
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Herb Garnish: Elevate your dish by sprinkling fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top just before serving. This adds a lovely aroma and a pop of color!
Easy Khachapuri Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore and personalize this delicious dish with these fun and tasty twists!
- Smoked Cheese: Swap mozzarella for smoked cheese to introduce a savory, rich flavor that elevates your khachapuri experience.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling for added nutrition and a heartier bite; they melt into the cheese beautifully!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough as a substitute for the traditional dough, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting dish.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or chives into the cheese blend for an aromatic experience that will have taste buds dancing.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a handful of chopped walnuts into the filling for delightful crunch and added nuttiness. They pair surprisingly well with the cheeses!
- Spice It Up: Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of chili powder to give your khachapuri an exciting, spicy kick.
- Creamy Surprise: Replace the butter with a dollop of crème fraîche for a tangy twist that’s rich and creamy, adding depth to each bite.
- Sourdough Dough: Try using sourdough pizza dough for a unique flavor; the slight tang introduces an enticing twist to this traditional dish.
Easy Khachapuri Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough should I use for Easy Khachapuri?
I recommend using store-bought premade pizza dough for its convenience. You can find it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try making your own dough from scratch, but that will add extra time to your recipe.
How should I store leftover Easy Khachapuri?
To keep your Easy Khachapuri fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 2 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing to help retain their quality!
Can I freeze Easy Khachapuri?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my egg doesn’t cook the way I like it?
If you’re looking for that perfect runny yolk, keep an eye on your khachapuri after adding the egg. Bake for about 5 more minutes but check it frequently. If you prefer a firmer yolk, leave it in a bit longer. Just be cautious not to overcook the cheese, as it can become rubbery.
Are there any dietary considerations for Easy Khachapuri?
Definitely! This dish contains dairy and eggs, so if you’re allergic to either of these, you can substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cheese. You can skip the egg altogether if you’d like a vegan version, though it won’t have the same texture or flavor.
Can I add more vegetables to my Easy Khachapuri?
Yes, the more the merrier! You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even bell peppers to your cheese filling. Just make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture and prevent the dough from getting soggy.
Easy Khachapuri: Comforting Cheese Boat in No Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough package instructions, usually around 425°F.
- Dust a clean surface with all-purpose flour to prevent sticking, and roll out the pizza dough into a boat shape.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle part-skim mozzarella and crumbled feta cheese inside the dough, creating a well for the egg.
- Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Carefully crack the egg into the center well and return it to the oven, baking until the egg is set to your liking.
- Drop small pieces of unsalted butter on top right before serving.