Ham & Egg Muffin Cups

In our busy household, mornings are often a whirlwind of activity. Between getting the kids ready for school, packing lunches, and trying to get myself out the door on time for work, breakfast can sometimes feel like an afterthought. That’s where these Ham & Egg Muffin Cups have become an absolute lifesaver. Honestly, discovering this recipe felt like finding a hidden treasure! They are incredibly easy to whip up, and the best part? Everyone in the family loves them. Even my pickiest eater devours these little protein-packed bites. The combination of savory ham, fluffy egg, and melty cheese baked into a convenient muffin shape is simply irresistible. We’ve made them for quick weekday breakfasts, leisurely weekend brunches, and even as a portable snack for road trips. They are incredibly versatile and always a hit. If you’re looking for a delicious, make-ahead, and family-friendly breakfast option, look no further – these Ham & Egg Muffin Cups are about to become your new go-to!

Ingredients

• Eggs: The star of the show! Eggs provide protein, structure, and that classic breakfast flavor. Use large eggs for this recipe to ensure the right consistency and volume.
• Cooked Ham: Diced ham adds a savory, salty element and a satisfying chew. You can use leftover holiday ham, deli ham, or even cubed ham steaks. Look for lean ham to keep the recipe healthier.
• Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese for flavor and meltiness. Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend all work wonderfully. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts even better.
• Milk or Cream: A splash of milk or cream adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture, making the muffin cups tender and fluffy. Whole milk or heavy cream will result in a richer texture, while skim milk or almond milk can be used for a lighter option.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the eggs, ham, and cheese. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its bolder taste.
• Optional Add-ins: Get creative and customize your muffin cups! Consider adding chopped chives, green onions, bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor and nutrients.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the muffin cups in, allowing for even cooking. While the oven is preheating, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with silicone muffin liners. Greasing or lining prevents the muffin cups from sticking and makes for easy removal and cleanup later. If using silicone liners, no greasing is necessary.
2. Whisk the Eggs and Dairy: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs. Add the milk or cream to the bowl with the eggs. Using a whisk, vigorously whisk the eggs and milk (or cream) together until they are well combined and slightly frothy. Whisking incorporates air into the mixture, which will contribute to the light and fluffy texture of the baked muffin cups. Continue whisking for about a minute or two until the mixture appears slightly pale and has a uniform consistency.
3. Add Seasonings and Cheese: Now, season the egg mixture. Sprinkle salt and black pepper into the bowl. Add the shredded cheese to the egg mixture. If you are using any optional add-ins like chopped chives, green onions, or vegetables, add them at this stage as well. Gently stir all the ingredients together with a spoon or spatula until everything is evenly distributed. Ensure the cheese and any add-ins are well incorporated throughout the egg mixture.
4. Distribute Ham into Muffin Cups: Take the diced ham and evenly distribute it among the prepared muffin cups in the muffin tin. Place a small amount of ham in the bottom of each muffin cup. This layer of ham at the bottom will prevent the egg mixture from directly sticking to the muffin tin and will provide a flavorful base for each cup.
5. Pour Egg Mixture into Muffin Cups: Carefully pour the egg mixture into each muffin cup, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Leave a little space at the top as the egg mixture will puff up slightly as it bakes. Evenly distribute the egg mixture among all the muffin cups to ensure they bake uniformly. Avoid overfilling the cups, as this can cause the mixture to overflow during baking.
6. Bake Until Set and Golden: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the egg muffin cups are set and lightly golden brown on top. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the depth of the muffin cups. To check for doneness, gently insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin cup; if it comes out clean, the muffin cups are cooked through. The tops should also be lightly golden and the edges should be set.
7. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the Ham & Egg Muffin Cups cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes. This slight cooling period makes them easier to handle and prevents them from crumbling when you remove them. After a few minutes, carefully remove the muffin cups from the muffin tin. You can use a thin spatula or knife to gently loosen the edges if needed. Serve them warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving – 1 Muffin Cup, based on a recipe using 12 large eggs, 1 cup diced ham, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and ½ cup milk, making 12 servings. Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 1 Muffin Cup
• Calories: Approximately 150-180 kcal
• Protein: 12-15g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes – This includes the time it takes to preheat the oven, grease the muffin tin, dice the ham (if necessary), shred the cheese (if not using pre-shredded), whisk the eggs and milk, and combine all the ingredients. The prep time is quick and efficient, making this recipe ideal for busy mornings or meal prepping.
• Cook Time: 18-22 minutes – The baking time in the oven. This time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your muffin cups.
• Total Time: Approximately 33-37 minutes – From start to finish, including both prep and cook time, you can have delicious and nutritious Ham & Egg Muffin Cups ready in under 40 minutes. This makes them a fantastic option for a relatively quick and easy breakfast or brunch.

How to Serve

These Ham & Egg Muffin Cups are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Breakfast or Brunch:
  • Serve them warm straight from the oven as part of a complete breakfast or brunch spread.
  • Pair them with a side of fresh fruit like berries, melon, or sliced oranges for a balanced and refreshing meal.
  • Offer a side of crispy bacon or sausage for an even heartier breakfast.
  • Include toast, bagels, or English muffins for extra carbohydrates if desired.
• Grab-and-Go Breakfast or Snack:
  • These muffin cups are perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes for a protein-packed and satisfying mid-day snack.
  • Take them on the go for a quick and healthy breakfast on busy mornings.
  • They are great for road trips, picnics, or any time you need a portable and convenient meal.
• Elevated Brunch or Light Lunch:
  • Serve them alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced and flavorful lunch.
  • Create a muffin cup Benedict by topping them with hollandaise sauce and a sprinkle of paprika (though technically not Benedict, the flavor profile is similar!).
  • Arrange them on a platter with other brunch favorites like smoked salmon, avocado slices, and croissants for a more elaborate presentation.
  • Offer a variety of toppings like salsa, hot sauce, sour cream, or guacamole for guests to customize their muffin cups.

Additional Tips for Perfect Ham & Egg Muffin Cups

1. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry and rubbery muffin cups. Bake just until they are set and lightly golden brown. The toothpick test is your best friend – remove them from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses to create various flavor profiles. Try Gruyere for a nutty taste, Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or feta for a tangy Mediterranean twist. A combination of cheeses can also be delicious.
3. Vary the Meat: Ham is classic, but feel free to substitute with other cooked meats. Crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or even chorizo would all be fantastic alternatives. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat altogether and add more vegetables.
4. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrients: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by incorporating vegetables. Sautéed spinach, chopped bell peppers, diced onions, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are all excellent additions. Make sure to cook vegetables like onions and peppers beforehand to soften them.
5. Make them Ahead and Freeze: These muffin cups are ideal for meal prepping. Bake a batch on the weekend and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage (up to 2 months). To freeze, let them cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
6. Reheating Instructions: Reheat refrigerated muffin cups in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Frozen muffin cups can be reheated directly from frozen, but may require a slightly longer reheating time.
7. Prevent Sticking: Ensure your muffin tin is well-greased or use silicone muffin liners to prevent sticking. If using a metal muffin tin and experiencing sticking, try letting the muffin cups cool slightly in the tin before attempting to remove them, as they will firm up a bit as they cool.
8. Spice it Up: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture, or include some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning or paprika on top before baking for added flavor and visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these Ham & Egg Muffin Cups vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! To make these muffin cups vegetarian, simply omit the ham. You can replace the ham with extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or onions to maintain flavor and texture. You could also add vegetarian sausage crumbles for a heartier vegetarian option.

Q2: Can I use different types of milk or dairy alternatives?

A: Yes, you can substitute whole milk with other types of milk or dairy alternatives based on your dietary preferences. Skim milk, 2% milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk all work well. Keep in mind that using lower-fat milk or dairy alternatives may result in slightly less rich muffin cups. Heavy cream can also be used for an extra decadent and rich texture.

Q3: How long do Ham & Egg Muffin Cups last in the refrigerator?

A: Ham & Egg Muffin Cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Ensure they are fully cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation. They are perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

Q4: Can I freeze Ham & Egg Muffin Cups?

A: Yes, these muffin cups freeze exceptionally well! Allow them to cool completely after baking. Wrap each muffin cup individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q5: How do I reheat frozen Ham & Egg Muffin Cups?

A: You can reheat frozen Ham & Egg Muffin Cups in several ways. The quickest method is to microwave them for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth in the center. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating in the oven or air fryer will help maintain a better texture.

Q6: Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the recipe?

A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to customize the flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, fresh chives, or parsley are all excellent additions. A pinch of nutmeg can also add a subtle warmth. Add the seasonings to the egg mixture before baking.

Q7: My muffin cups are sticking to the tin, what can I do?

A: To prevent sticking, ensure you generously grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or butter before adding the ingredients. Alternatively, use silicone muffin liners, which are naturally non-stick and make removal very easy. If they are still sticking, try running a thin knife or spatula around the edges of each muffin cup to loosen them before removing. Letting them cool slightly in the tin can also help them firm up and release more easily.

Q8: Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?

A: Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled to make a larger batch for meal prep, gatherings, or larger families. Simply double or triple all the ingredients proportionally. You may need to bake multiple batches depending on the size of your oven and the number of muffin tins you have. Ensure you have enough muffin cups to accommodate the larger batch.

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