Cheesy Ham and Egg Muffin Cups are a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. These individual muffin cups are filled with hearty bread, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a perfectly baked egg. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and packed with protein, making them an ideal way to start your day. These muffin cups can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making them a great meal prep option for busy mornings.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 6 muffin cups
Cuisine
This dish is a classic American breakfast option with a modern twist. It combines popular breakfast ingredients such as eggs, ham, and cheese into an easy-to-make and flavorful muffin cup format, perfect for brunch or a quick breakfast.
Full List of Ingredients
- Bread slices (enough to fill muffin cups)
- Vegetable oil (for greasing)
- 6 cheese slices (1 per muffin cup)
- 6 pieces of ham (about 100g)
- 100g grated cheese (about 1 cup)
- 6 large eggs
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin with vegetable oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. -
Prepare the Bread:
Take the bread slices and cut or tear them to fit into the muffin cups, forming a base layer for each cup. Press the bread down gently to ensure it fits securely. You can use any type of bread, such as white, whole wheat, or even a hearty sourdough, depending on your preference. -
Layer the Ham and Cheese:
Place a slice of ham in each muffin cup on top of the bread, folding it as necessary to fit. Then, add a slice of cheese over the ham, ensuring that the cheese covers the entire cup. Follow with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese on top. -
Add the Eggs:
Crack one egg into each muffin cup, taking care not to break the yolk. Season each egg with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add a sprinkle of herbs or spices, such as parsley or paprika, for added flavor. -
Bake the Muffin Cups:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The egg whites should be firm, but the yolk can remain soft, depending on your preference. For firmer eggs, bake for an additional 5 minutes. -
Serve:
Once the muffin cups are baked to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Use a spoon or butter knife to gently loosen the muffin cups from the tin and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (per muffin cup)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 17 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Cholesterol: 185 mg
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 6%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cheesy Ham and Egg Muffin Cups are a creative take on classic breakfast dishes, combining the convenience of muffin tins with traditional ingredients like ham, eggs, and cheese. The muffin cup format makes these easy to serve and perfect for portion control, while also making them an ideal option for meal prep. These cups are popular for breakfast or brunch, especially for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, these muffin cups come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings.
- Protein-Packed: Each muffin cup is loaded with protein from the eggs, ham, and cheese, keeping you full and energized throughout the day.
- Customizable: You can swap out the ham for bacon, sausage, or a vegetarian option like spinach and mushrooms.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These muffin cups can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and reheated for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Delicious and Satisfying: The combination of savory ham, cheese, and egg in a muffin cup is both hearty and flavorful, making it a satisfying meal.
Health Benefits
- Eggs: A great source of protein, eggs help with muscle repair and provide essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.
- Ham: Ham provides a good amount of protein and iron, which are vital for energy production and maintaining a healthy immune system.
- Cheese: Cheese is a good source of calcium, which supports bone health, as well as protein for muscle growth and repair.
- Bread: The bread base provides carbohydrates for energy, and you can choose whole grain bread for added fiber.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve these muffin cups with a side of fresh fruit like berries, apple slices, or a citrus salad for a well-rounded meal.
- With a Side Salad: A light side salad with greens and a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the muffin cups.
- As Part of a Brunch Spread: These muffin cups make an excellent addition to a brunch spread alongside other savory items like quiches, fruit platters, and pastries.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust for Egg Doneness: If you prefer a runnier yolk, check the eggs around 18 minutes of baking time. For firmer yolks, bake for a few extra minutes.
- Use Different Meats: Try substituting the ham with turkey bacon, sausage, or even prosciutto for a different flavor.
- Experiment with Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers to the muffin cups for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and use sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a meatless option.
- Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the eggs for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheese: Swap the cheese for your favorite variety, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta, to change the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ham and Egg Muffin Cups are a versatile and delicious breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to make, satisfying, and packed with protein. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on a busy day or planning a special brunch for guests, these muffin cups will be a hit. Customizable and simple to prepare, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make these muffin cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these muffin cups ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. -
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat bread, sourdough, or any bread you prefer. Just make sure it fits well into the muffin cups. -
Can I add vegetables to these muffin cups?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. -
Can I make these muffin cups without cheese?
Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version, or use a dairy-free cheese substitute if you prefer. -
How long will these muffin cups last in the fridge?
These muffin cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
Can I freeze these muffin cups?
Yes, these muffin cups freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready. -
Can I make these muffin cups without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan version. -
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with bacon, sausage, or even leftover chicken for a different flavor. -
What should I do if I don’t have muffin tins?
You can use a small baking dish or ramekins as a substitute for muffin tins. Adjust the baking time as needed. -
Can I add spices to the eggs?
Yes, feel free to add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to the eggs for additional flavor.
Enjoy your Cheesy Ham and Egg Muffin Cups!