These Potato and Egg Muffin Nests are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a savory breakfast or snack. The crispy potato base forms a perfect nest to hold the egg and melty cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying bite. They’re customizable with different seasonings and toppings, making them an easy and versatile dish to enjoy any time of day.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 6 muffin nests
Ingredients:
- 1 large potato, shredded (270 g)
- 1 tablespoon oil, for brushing
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 6 large eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
- Crushed red pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (50 g)
Directions:
- Prepare the Muffin Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush a muffin baking pan with oil to prevent sticking.
- Create the Potato Base:
- Divide the shredded potato evenly into the muffin cups.
- Press the potato firmly into the cups, shaping it to form a nest. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Pre-Bake the Potato Nests:
- Bake the potato nests in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until slightly crisped.
- Add the Eggs:
- Remove the muffin pan from the oven and crack an egg into each potato nest.
- Season each egg with a bit of salt, black pepper, parsley, and crushed red pepper (if using).
- Add the Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of each egg.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the muffins cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of sautéed spinach or fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Add some cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier breakfast.
- Pair with toast or whole grain bread for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs like chives or thyme for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- To make the potato nests extra crispy, make sure the potato is well-pressed in the muffin cups.
- For a dairy-free version, skip the mozzarella cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute.
- Experiment with adding other vegetables, like sautéed onions, peppers, or spinach, to the nests for more flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a runny yolk, keep an eye on the eggs and remove the nests from the oven as soon as the whites are set.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline.
- Fresh parsley adds antioxidants and helps with digestion.
- Mozzarella cheese offers calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Dairy-Free: No (can be made dairy-free with a cheese substitute)
- Low-Carb: Yes
- Low-Sodium: Can be made lower sodium by reducing the amount of salt added.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These Potato and Egg Muffin Nests are the perfect combination of crispy and creamy textures.
- They are highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings and seasonings.
- Great for meal prep! You can make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
- The recipe is simple, quick, and uses common ingredients, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Conclusion:
These Potato and Egg Muffin Nests are a fun twist on a classic breakfast dish. With a crispy potato base and a flavorful egg and cheese topping, they’re both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for any time of day, they can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, these muffin nests will soon become a favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the potato nests in advance and store them in the fridge. Add the egg and cheese right before baking.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes work well as a substitute for regular potatoes. They will add a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Can I use egg substitutes? Yes, you can use flax eggs or chia eggs for a vegan version, though the texture may be slightly different.
- Can I freeze these potato nests? Yes, you can freeze the baked nests for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- How can I make these nests extra crispy? Press the potatoes tightly into the muffin cups and bake at a higher temperature (375°F/190°C) for a few minutes.
- Can I add other vegetables to the nests? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming soggy? Make sure the shredded potatoes are well-drained before pressing them into the muffin cups.
- What type of cheese can I use? You can use any cheese of your choice, such as cheddar, gouda, or feta.
- How do I know when the eggs are cooked properly? The eggs should be set, with the whites firm and the yolk still soft (unless you prefer fully cooked yolks).
- Can I make these nests without cheese? Yes, the nests can be made without cheese for a dairy-free option or use a vegan cheese substitute.