Ham and Cheese Egg Cups are one of those delightful dishes that manage to combine simplicity with sophistication, a comforting hug of flavors packed into bite-sized portions. As a longtime lover of breakfast foods, I remember the very first time I indulged in these savory cups. It was a brisk Sunday morning, and we wanted something delicious to kick off the day without spending hours in the kitchen. We found ourselves in the mood for eggs and ham, and as we experimented, inspiration struck. A simple idea turned into a family favorite, and our brunch was transformed!
What’s wonderful about these Ham and Cheese Egg Cups is how easily they can be tailored to your taste. They make for a fantastic breakfast, an energizing snack, or even an elegant addition to a brunch gathering. Fun fact: they are also easy to prep in advance, so they’re perfect for those busy weekday mornings when you still want something hearty and comforting.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 18 minutes
- Total Duration: 28 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 12
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 135 kcal
- Protein: 10g per serving
- Carbs: 1g per serving
- Fats: 10g per serving
- Fiber: 0g per serving
- Sugars: 1g per serving
- Sodium: 550mg per serving
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Egg Cups
These egg cups are the epitome of portable comfort food—easy to make and even easier to eat on the go. With the combination of savory ham, creamy mozzarella, and fluffy eggs, they strike an ideal balance that satisfies without overwhelming. Plus, they’re ultra-adaptable, meaning you can toss in leftover veggies or use different types of cheese to give it your own twist. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat; they genuinely taste great every time!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Making Ham and Cheese Egg Cups at home is a breeze! The journey starts with a little prep, a sprinkle of cheese, and ends with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. There’s an unmistakable joy in cracking the eggs right into the cups and watching them puff up in the oven. And let’s not forget the moment you take them out and sprinkle fresh green onions on top—what a treat for both the eyes and palate!
Ingredients:
- 12 slices of ham
- 12 eggs
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Green onions
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First set the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your ham and cheese egg cups get that perfectly baked exterior while keeping the insides fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Next, add the ham slices to a lightly greased muffin tin. Press them gently to form a cup shape, creating a sturdy foundation for your delicious filling.
Step 3: Add the Cheese Delight
Divide the mozzarella cheese among the 12 cups and sprinkle it generously on top of the ham. This will melt and become ooey-gooey perfection as it bakes.
Step 4: Cracking the Eggs
Then, add the eggs on top of the cheese. I like to crack them directly into the ham cups for added drama and fun! Enjoy the visual of each egg nestled in its salty, cheesy home.
Step 5: Seasoning Magic
Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving each cup that additional kick of flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the eggs are set but still tender. Keep an eye on them, as every oven varies slightly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the cups from the oven and top with freshly chopped green onions. It adds a pop of color and a bright flavor note—a perfect finishing touch!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Need a side to go along with your egg cups? How about a refreshing salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette or some crispy skewered fruit for a sweet contrast? These egg cups pair fabulously with freshly squeezed juice or a robust cup of coffee to kickstart your day.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Got leftovers? No problem! Simply store your Ham and Cheese Egg Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. They’re just as delicious on day two!
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Greasing: Don’t skip greasing the muffin tin! It ensures each cup comes out smoothly without breaking apart.
- Egg Freshness: Always use fresh eggs. They not only taste better but will also give you a fluffier texture.
- Mix it Up: Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or even add things like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or herbs into your cups for extra flavor.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
- Hide Vegetables: Shred in some zucchini or carrots for an extra nutritious punch.
- Change the Meat: Turkey or chicken could substitute the ham—this recipe is wonderfully versatile!
- Spice it Up: Try adding a little hot sauce to the egg mixture if you want a spicy kick.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- What can I use instead of ham? Turkey slices or crumbled sausage work great too!
- Can I make these in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare them up to two days ahead, then bake when you’re ready.
- How do I know when they are done? The eggs should be set but tender; a little jiggle means they’re perfect!
- What if I don’t have a muffin tin? You can use ramekins or any oven-safe dish that holds the ingredients in individual portions.
- Can I freeze them? Yes, they freeze well! Just reheat directly from the freezer—allow extra time for the heating.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking to impress your brunch guests or simply want to whip up something hearty on a weekday morning, these Ham and Cheese Egg Cups are a delectable solution. Their versatility and ease make them a fantastic addition to any meal plan. So why not roll up your sleeves and give them a try? Cooking is all about experimentation and creating memories in the kitchen. Here’s to many happy egg-cup-making adventures ahead! Enjoy every bite!
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Ham and Cheese Egg Cups
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Delightful bite-sized ham and cheese egg cups, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 12 slices of ham
- 12 eggs
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Grease a muffin tin and add the ham slices to form cups.
- Divide the mozzarella cheese among the ham cups.
- Crack the eggs on top of the cheese in each ham cup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until the eggs are set but tender.
- Remove from the oven and top with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
These egg cups can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
