Welcome to the ultimate solution for hectic mornings and delicious breakfast cravings! These Ham and Egg Cups are a game-changer. They are incredibly simple to make, packed with protein, and endlessly customizable. Forget boring cereal; this recipe delivers a satisfying, savory breakfast that’s ready in minutes.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick, crowd-pleasing brunch idea, this is the recipe you’ve been searching for. They are perfectly portioned, wonderfully cheesy, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why This Ham and Egg Cups Recipe is a Winner
You’re going to fall in love with this recipe for so many reasons. It’s more than just a tasty meal; it’s a versatile breakfast powerhouse.
- Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these cups are perfect for even the busiest schedules.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast all week long. They store and reheat beautifully.
- Fully Customizable: Think of this recipe as a starting point. Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices to make them your own.
- Keto & Low-Carb Friendly: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these ham and egg cups are a fantastic option for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.
The Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of basic ingredients to get started.
- Deli Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works best as it forms a perfect, flexible cup. Black Forest or honey ham are excellent choices.
- Large Eggs: The star of the show!
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic, but a mix of Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sprinkle of Parmesan also works wonders.
- Milk or Cream: A small splash makes the eggs extra fluffy and tender.
- Seasoning: Simple salt, freshly ground black pepper, and finely chopped chives are all you need to elevate the flavor.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Ham and Egg Cups
Follow these simple steps for flawless breakfast cups every single time. It’s as easy as prep, fill, and bake!
- Prep Your Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly grease a 12-cup standard muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This is the most important step to prevent sticking!
- Create the Ham Cups: Press one slice of deli ham into each muffin cup, gently folding it to create a cup shape that lines the bottom and sides. The ham will serve as your delicious, edible liner.
- Add Fillings and Eggs: Sprinkle a tablespoon of shredded cheese into the bottom of each ham cup. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and chives. Carefully pour the egg mixture into each ham cup, filling it about three-quarters full.
- Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle a little more cheese on top of each cup. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the tops are lightly golden. The exact time will depend on your oven.
Pro Tips for Perfect Egg Cups Every Time
Want to ensure your Ham and Egg Cups come out perfectly? Follow these seasoned culinary tips.
- Don’t Skip the Grease: Even if you have a non-stick pan, greasing it well is crucial for easy removal.
- Avoid Overfilling: Fill the cups no more than three-quarters full, as the eggs will puff up while baking.
- Watch Them Closely: Eggs can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in a minute. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time. They should be just set in the center.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the egg cups to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before removing them. This helps them set up and makes them easier to handle.
Fun Variations for Your Ham and Egg Cups
While the classic recipe is fantastic, these breakfast cups are a blank canvas. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch.
Cheese Lovers’ Delight
Use a blend of your favorite cheeses. Smoked gouda, Swiss, or a sprinkle of feta can add a whole new dimension of flavor. A little cream cheese in the egg mixture makes them extra rich.
Veggie-Packed Cups
Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or onions. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture and prevent soggy cups.
Spice It Up
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños into the egg mixture for a spicy kick. For a savory twist, try adding cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage. For another great make-ahead breakfast, check out these amazing grab-and-go breakfast burritos.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
One of the best things about these ham and egg cups is how well they work for meal prep. Here’s how to store them for later.
Refrigerating
Once completely cooled, store the egg cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing for Later
To freeze, place the cooled egg cups on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 2 months.
The Best Way to Reheat
For best results, reheat the egg cups in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in an air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through. This keeps them from becoming rubbery.
What to Serve with Ham and Egg Cups
These cups are a fantastic meal on their own, but they also pair well with other breakfast favorites. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit, toast, avocado slices, or crispy potatoes. They are a wonderful addition to a larger brunch spread alongside other dishes like easy sheet pan pancakes (coming soon) or a healthy oatmeal apple cake (coming soon).
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! Let the cups cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
The key to preventing soggy egg cups is to pre-cook any watery vegetables (like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers) before adding them to the egg mixture. This removes excess moisture.
You’ll know the egg cups are done when the center is just set and no longer jiggly. They will be slightly puffed up and lightly golden on top. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become rubbery.
You should bake ham and egg cups at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. The exact time can vary by oven, so bake them until the eggs are just set in the middle.
Thinly sliced deli ham is the best choice because it’s flexible and forms a perfect cup shape in the muffin tin. Black Forest, smoked, or honey ham are all great options.
We Hope You Love This Recipe!
These Ham and Egg Cups are a simple, delicious, and endlessly versatile recipe we’re sure you’ll love. They prove that a homemade, protein-packed breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated. If you make them, please leave a comment below or share a photo of your creation on Pinterest! We can’t wait to see your amazing results.
Ham and Egg Cups Recipe
Ham and Egg Cups (The Easiest, Tastiest Breakfast)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter.
- Press one slice of ham into each muffin cup, creating a cup shape that lines the bottom and sides.
- Sprinkle about half of the shredded cheese evenly into the bottom of the ham cups.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and chopped chives until well combined.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture into each ham cup, filling them about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of each cup.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are just set in the center and lightly golden on top. Let them cool for a few minutes in the tin before removing.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled egg cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Variations: Feel free to add cooked bacon, sausage, or sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
