Ham and Egg Cups Recipe

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious breakfast that feels a little fancy but comes together with almost no effort, I’ve got you covered with this Ham and Egg Cups Recipe. These little bites are packed with savory ham, melty cheddar, and perfectly baked eggs that you can customize just how you like them. Seriously, whenever I make these, my family goes crazy—and I love how fuss-free they are on hectic mornings. Stick around because I’m going to share all my tips so you nail them every single time!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Ham and Egg Cups Recipe come together like a dream. A few simple staples that you probably have in your fridge already, plus some shredded cheddar to add that gorgeous melted cheese punch. Here are the essentials you’ll want to keep handy.

• Cooking spray: Essential for greasing those muffin cups so the ham and egg don’t stick; it’s a small step that makes cleanup way easier.
• Ham slices: I prefer standard thickness deli ham—thick enough to hold its shape in the pan, but not so thick that it overwhelms the eggs.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded gives the best melt and flavor; avoid pre-shredded for creaminess reasons.
• Large eggs: The star of the show, cracked right into the ham cups—fresh eggs make a big difference in texture and taste.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper: Simple seasoning to make every bite pop.
• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green freshness that brightens up the rich eggs and cheese.

Variations

One of the things I adore about this Ham and Egg Cups Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Over time, I’ve played around with different cheeses, added veggies, and even swapped ham for other proteins to keep it exciting.

• Try different cheeses: I’ve had guests rave when I swapped cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda—adds a whole new kick.
• Add veggies: Sautéed spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms folded in with the cheese can sneak in some greens without complicating the process.
• Swap the ham: Turkey slices or cooked bacon work great, too, especially if you want a change-up or need a leaner option.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter version that still tastes fantastic.

How to Make Ham and Egg Cups Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Muffin Pan with Ham

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Then give your 12-cup muffin pan a good spray with cooking spray—this step is critical, trust me. Line each muffin cup with one slice of your ham, trimming the edges if needed to fit neatly. The ham acts like a natural “cup” for holding the egg and cheese, creating that perfect bite-sized breakfast. I learned early on that skipping the spray turns unmolding these cups into a frustrating ordeal, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Add Cheese and Crack the Eggs

Next, sprinkle about a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese into each ham-lined cup. This little layer of cheese melts around the edges, adding creaminess and flavor as the eggs bake. Then, carefully crack one large egg into each cup—try to avoid breaking the yolk unless that’s your thing. Season each with a pinch of kosher salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper. This helps bring out the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Step 3: Bake to Your Perfect Yolk

Pop the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. This is where you get to play with your yolk’s texture. I love 12 minutes for a soft, runny center—perfect if you like dipping toast soldiers. But if you prefer a firmer yolk that’s closer to hard boiled, 15 minutes is your sweet spot. One trick I discovered is to start checking at 12 minutes so you don’t accidentally overcook them. When done, remove the pan and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to brighten things up.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Use a large spoon to gently remove each ham and egg cup from the pan. They should slide out easily if you prepped the pan correctly. Serve warm and watch your family’s faces light up. Honestly, these are as pretty as they are tasty, and they make breakfast feel special without any stress.

How to Serve Ham and Egg Cups Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of keeping garnishes simple and fresh. A sprinkle of chopped parsley really lifts the flavors here and adds a pop of color. Sometimes I toss on a little cracked black pepper again or even some red pepper flakes if we want a hint of heat. A tiny dab of hot sauce on the side also pairs beautifully!

Side Dishes

These ham and egg cups stand well on their own but pair wonderfully with simple sides. I often serve them alongside crispy roasted potatoes or a light mixed green salad to balance the richness. Fresh fruit or avocado slices add freshness too—perfect for a balanced breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch party, I like to arrange these cups on a large platter with colorful garnishes like edible flowers, sliced cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. You can also pop individual cups into small ramekins lined with a little lettuce leaf for a fancier look. They make great finger foods, so setting up a self-serve station with sauces and toppings lets guests customize their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay good for about 3 days. Just be sure to cool them completely before popping into storage to keep them fresh and tasty.

Freezing

Freezing this recipe works surprisingly well! I let the cups cool fully, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep for up to a month and defrost quickly when you’re ready.

Reheating

To reheat, I usually microwave a cup on medium power for about 40 seconds to 1 minute, which warms it through without drying it out. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes if you want a crisper edge. Avoid overcooking to keep the yolks from getting chalky.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Egg Cups Recipe has become one of my go-to breakfast solutions—it’s simple enough to whip up on a weekday, yet special enough that you feel like you’re treating yourself. The way the ham holds the egg and cheese neatly, combined with the customizable yolk texture, makes it feel like a little bit of a breakfast party every time. I can’t recommend it enough, especially if you want to up your morning game without the hassle. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite way to start your day!

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