Puffed Soufflè Omelette: Soft, Stringy, and Seriously Fluffy

Ever seen an omelette do a magic trick? Because that’s exactly what happens here. One moment it’s just some humble eggs and milk and the next, it’s towering like a souffle and stretching like a cheese pull commercial.

This puffed omelette has a texture so cloud-like it might just float off your fork. It’s soft, savory, stretchy, thanks to melty mozzarella, salty, and shockingly easy to make in one pan.

If you need an easy dish to feed hungry kids, impress brunch guests, or just need an edible pick-me-up, this dish has you covered. It’s the kind of thing you whip up when you want eggs to be more than just eggs.

What Is a Puffed Omelette?

The puffed omelette is a refined evolution of the classic egg dish, rooted in French culinary tradition. Its origins can be traced to the 19th century, when chefs began experimenting with separating eggs and incorporating air into the whites to achieve greater volume and texture. This method, often associated with soufflé techniques, was adapted into omelette-making to create a more delicate result.

Unlike omelettes, which are folded and cooked quickly on the stovetop, the puffed version relies on baking to preserve its structure and height.

Pro Tips for the Best Puffed Omelette

• The egg whites need to be properly whipped, glossy and firm enough to defy gravity. Think mousse, not marshmallow.
• Gentle folding is key and don’t beat the whites into the yolks. Fold like you're tucking in a baby bird. You want fluff, not flop.
• Watch the bake time because overbaking can make the omelette dry and sunken. Keep an eye out once it hits the 15-minute mark.
• This dish is best enjoyed straight from the oven when it’s at peak puff.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a puffed omelette and a regular omelette?

A regular omelette is folded in a pan and cooked on the stove. A puffed omelette is baked, uses separated eggs, and whips the whites for that signature rise.

Can I make this without bacon?

You can swap in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian twist.

Can I add herbs or spices?

Fresh chives, parsley, smoked paprika, or even a little garlic powder work beautifully. Just don’t overload it, you still want that light, airy texture.

Why did my omelette deflate?

It’s natural for a puffed omelette to settle slightly after baking, but if it collapsed completely, your whites may not have been whipped enough, or you overmixed during folding.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Mozzarella gives the best stretch, but cheddar, fontina, or Gruyère add more sharpness and richness.

How to Store Leftovers

If you do have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven and avoid the microwave because it makes the omelette spongy and sad. Also freezing is not recommended because its delicate texture doesn’t survive the freeze-thaw game well. You’ll end up with something rubbery and deflated, which is not ideal.

How to Make a Puffed Soufflé Omelette

Step 1

Step 1

Place your egg whites in a clean, dry bowl and using an electric mixer, whip thoroughly.

Place your egg whites in a clean, dry bowl and using an electric mixer, whip thoroughly.

Step 2

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. You want a smooth, lump-free mixture.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. You want a smooth, lump-free mixture.

Step 3

Step 3

Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped whites into the yolk mixture. Work from the bottom up and don’t overmix.

Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped whites into the yolk mixture. Work from the bottom up and don’t overmix.

Step 4

Step 4

Pour the fluffy batter into a parchment-lined 22 cm (8.5-inch) round mold. Smooth the surface and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 15 minutes.

Pour the fluffy batter into a parchment-lined 22 cm (8.5-inch) round mold. Smooth the surface and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Step 5

Lay the crispy bacon and shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

Lay the crispy bacon and shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

Step 6

Step 6

Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7

Step 7

Transfer to a serving dish, slice while warm, and enjoy.

Transfer to a serving dish, slice while warm, and enjoy.