Ham and Egg Cups

Ham and Egg Cups are a fantastic way to enjoy a protein-packed breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack. They’re simple to make, fun to eat, and perfect for busy mornings. These little cups combine the salty goodness of ham with the creamy richness of eggs, all baked together in a convenient muffin tin. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, Ham and Egg Cups offer a satisfying and customizable meal option. For other delicious egg-based dishes, check out these egg recipes.

Why these Ham and Egg Cups are special

These Ham and Egg Cups aren’t your average breakfast bites. My secret? A touch of nutmeg in the egg mixture adds warm, cozy flavor that complements the ham perfectly. Plus, they are incredibly adaptable! Kids can help assemble them, and you can easily swap in different cheeses or veggies to suit everyone’s tastes. This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
• 6 thin slices of deli ham

Ingredient Substitutions

For dairy-free Ham and Egg Cups, swap the milk for unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based alternative. Instead of cheddar, try a dairy-free cheese substitute. Turkey ham or Canadian bacon make excellent substitutes for regular ham. Feel free to experiment! Looking for a different breakfast option? Try this tater tot breakfast casserole.

Equipment

• 12-cup muffin tin
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for cheese, if desired)

Instructions

These Ham and Egg Cups are surprisingly simple to assemble and bake. Just follow these easy steps:

Preparing the Ham Cups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin. This will prevent the ham from sticking and make cleanup easier. Press a slice of ham into each muffin cup. Make sure the ham covers the bottom and sides of each cup, forming a little “cup.” If the ham slices are large, you may need to trim them to fit neatly. Don’t worry if they overlap a bit; this will help keep their shape.

Filling the Cups

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is well combined and slightly frothy. This helps create light and airy egg cups. Gently pour the egg mixture into each ham cup. Fill them almost to the top, leaving a little space for the eggs to rise. If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top of each egg cup.

Baking and Serving

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the ham edges are lightly browned. To check for doneness, gently insert a toothpick into the center of an egg cup. If it comes out clean, they’re ready. Let the Ham and Egg Cups cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley, if desired. For some healthy meal prep ideas, take a look at these healthy meal prep ideas.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to make your Ham and Egg Cups even better:

• Avoid over-baking: Over-baked eggs can be dry and rubbery. Start checking for doneness at 15 minutes and remove them from the oven as soon as the eggs are set.
• Fluffy eggs: For extra fluffy eggs, add a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese to the egg mixture.
• Cheese, please: Experiment with different cheeses! Swiss, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack would all be delicious.

Adding Veggies for Extra Nutrients

Boost the nutritional value of your Ham and Egg Cups by adding chopped vegetables. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great choices. Simply add a spoonful of your favorite cooked veggies to each ham cup before pouring in the egg mixture. You can even use leftover roasted vegetables! Learn more about the health benefits of vegetables.

Spice It Up!

A dash of paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder can add a burst of flavor. For a Southwestern twist, try adding a pinch of chili powder and cumin. Get creative with your spice combinations!

Kid-Friendly Ham and Egg Cups

Make breakfast fun for kids by using cookie cutters to shape the ham before pressing it into the muffin tin. Stars, hearts, or even dinosaurs can make breakfast more exciting! Let kids choose their own toppings, like a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of ketchup.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Ham and Egg Cups are great for meal prepping. Bake them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap each cooled Ham and Egg Cup individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If you’re looking for more breakfast inspiration, try these salmon breakfast ideas.

FAQ

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Ham and Egg Cups:

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Egg Cups are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a simple breakfast, pair them with a slice of whole-wheat toast and a glass of orange juice. If you’re serving them for brunch, consider adding a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a breakfast casserole or a platter of bacon or sausage.

For a beautiful brunch presentation, arrange the Ham and Egg Cups on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika. For family-style meals, place the muffin tin in the center of the table and let everyone grab their own. Ham and Egg Cups are also great for on-the-go breakfasts. Simply pack them in a container and enjoy them at work or school.

Conclusion

Ham and Egg Cups are a delightful and easy way to elevate your breakfast or brunch game. Their simple preparation, adaptable nature, and delicious flavor make them a winner for busy families and anyone who loves a satisfying meal. Give this recipe a try, and I’m confident it will become a new favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations! Share your Ham and Egg Cup adventures in the comments below.

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