Lately, avocado toast has become a go-to breakfast for me, especially when I top it with a perfectly fried egg and a drizzle of homemade hot sauce.
Making your own hot sauce is surprisingly simple. After experimenting with a few batches, I put together a video to show the process. If you enjoy recipe videos, check out my latest feature on Darby Smart demonstrating how to make avocado toast with fried eggs and a seriously spicy homemade hot sauce.
Photography by Amelia Tatnall
Styling and recipe by Brittni Mehlhoff
Avocado toast works so well because it balances creamy, rich avocado with the runny yolk of a fried egg and the bright heat of hot sauce. To make it at home, start with good bread—whole grain or sourdough provide texture and flavor. Toast the slices until they’re golden and slightly crisp, then spread ripe avocado that’s been mashed and lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the taste.
For the egg, heat a nonstick skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat. Crack the egg gently into the pan and cook until the whites are set but the yolk remains soft; a cover over the pan for a minute helps set the whites without overcooking the yolk. Place the fried egg atop the avocado and finish with a pinch of flaky salt.
The homemade hot sauce I’ve been using is straightforward: roast or sauté fresh chili peppers until they’re tender, then blend them with a splash of vinegar, a touch of sweetener if desired, garlic, and salt. Adjust the heat by choosing milder or hotter peppers and balance the acidity to your preference. The result is a bright, flavorful sauce that elevates the toast without overpowering the other ingredients.
This combination is quick to prepare, satisfying, and versatile—add toppings like sliced cherry tomatoes, microgreens, crumbled feta, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor. It’s also easy to adapt for dietary preferences: swap the fried egg for a poached egg, use gluten-free bread, or make a vegan version by omitting the egg and adding smoked tofu or marinated roasted vegetables.
Whether you’re making a leisurely weekend breakfast or a speedy weekday meal, avocado toast with a fried egg and homemade hot sauce is a flavorful option that always feels a little special. What’s your favorite breakfast to make in the morning? Are you an avocado toast kind of person?