Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups Recipe

Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups: A Cozy Breakfast Recipe

Nestling crispy hash browns alongside melted cheesy egg cups creates a breakfast dream that’ll make mornings magical.

Potato shreds transform into golden, crunchy vessels holding creamy, soft eggs.

Morning hunger meets its match with these delightful individual portions.

Comfort food meets clever presentation in this simple yet impressive dish.

Assembling these cups requires minimal kitchen skills and maximum flavor potential.

Breakfast enthusiasts appreciate how quickly these cups come together with basic ingredients.

You’ll love how these portable egg cups bring restaurant-style elegance to your home kitchen.

Grab a fork and prepare for a seriously delicious morning experience!

What Makes Cheesy Egg Cups So Tasty

  • Customize Your Breakfast: Create personalized egg cups with favorite mix-ins like ham, bacon, or vegetables for a tailored morning meal.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare these portable cups in advance, store in the refrigerator, and quickly reheat for a grab-and-go breakfast during busy mornings.
  • Perfect Party Pleaser: Serve these adorable individual portions at brunch gatherings, offering a crowd-pleasing dish that looks impressive and tastes delicious.
  • Nutritious One-Handed Wonder: Pack protein, potatoes, and cheese into a compact, handheld breakfast that fuels your morning without requiring multiple utensils or plates.

What You Need For Cheesy Egg Cups

Potato Base:
  • Hash Browns: Frozen potatoes that create a crispy foundation for the egg cups.
  • Olive Oil: Helps grease the muffin tin and prevents sticking.
Cheese and Protein:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, melty flavor throughout the dish.
  • Bacon: Adds smoky and salty taste to the egg cups.
  • Ham: Offers additional protein and savory depth.
Egg and Dairy:
  • Eggs: Main protein component that binds the ingredients together.
  • Milk: Creates a smooth and creamy texture for the egg mixture.
Seasoning and Garnish:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Green Onions: Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and color to the egg cups.

How To Whip Up Cheesy Egg Cups

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Muffin Tin

Crank up your oven to a toasty 375°F. Grab a 12-cup muffin tin and give it a generous coating of olive oil, making sure every nook and cranny is slick to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Dry Out Hash Browns

Take your thawed hash browns and give them a good squeeze with paper towels. Press out all that excess moisture to guarantee a crispy, golden base for your breakfast cups.

Step 3: Create Potato Mixture

Combine hash browns with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Mix until everything is beautifully blended.

Step 4: Form Potato Crusts

Press the potato mixture into each muffin cup, pushing it up the sides to create a sturdy potato shell. Make sure it’s packed tight and even.

Step 5: Initial Baking

Slide the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Watch for those edges to turn a gorgeous golden brown and get wonderfully crisp.

Step 6: Prepare Egg Mixture

Whisk eggs with milk until smooth and silky. This will be the creamy heart of your breakfast cups.

Step 7: Add Savory Fillings

Scatter your chosen goodies across the partially baked potato shells:
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Diced ham
  • Chopped green onions

Distribute evenly for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 8: Fill with Egg Mixture

Carefully pour the whisked eggs into each cup, filling about three-quarters full.

This gives the eggs room to rise and set beautifully.

Step 9: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over each cup, creating a melty, golden crown.

Step 10: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for set eggs and cheese that’s melted and slightly bubbling.

Step 11: Cool and Rest

Let the cups rest in the tin for 5 minutes. This helps them hold their shape and makes removal easier.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Run a knife around the edges and gently pop out the cups. Serve warm and watch everyone’s eyes light up at this breakfast masterpiece.

Handy Hints For Cheesy Egg Cups

  • Ensure thorough greasing of the muffin tin to prevent hash brown cups from sticking and breaking when removing.
  • Pat hash browns completely dry to achieve a crispy, golden crust that holds its shape perfectly during baking.
  • Experiment with different protein options like vegetarian sausage crumbles or diced turkey for varied flavor profiles.
  • Prepare hash brown cups ahead of time and reheat in the oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crisp texture and warmth.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making these egg cups a convenient meal prep option.

Easy Add-Ons For Cheesy Egg Cups

  • Southwest Fiesta Cups: Replace bacon and ham with spicy chorizo, add black beans, diced jalapeños, and top with salsa and cilantro for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
  • Mediterranean Morning Cups: Swap bacon for crumbled feta cheese, add spinach, diced tomatoes, and sprinkle with dried oregano to create a Greek-style breakfast treat.
  • Veggie Power Cups: Substitute meat with roasted bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, and baby spinach, using a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
  • Alpine Breakfast Cups: Incorporate diced ham, Swiss cheese, and caramelized onions for a rich, European-style morning meal with subtle sweetness and depth.

Pair Cheesy Egg Cups With These

  • Pair with Zesty Morning Mimosa: Blend fresh orange juice with chilled champagne to cut through the rich, cheesy egg flavors and refresh the palate.
  • Complement with Crisp Herb Salad: Toss mixed greens with light vinaigrette and fresh herbs like parsley and chives to balance the hearty egg cups and provide a light, refreshing contrast.
  • Match with Smooth Cold Brew Coffee: Select a medium-roast cold brew with subtle nutty undertones to enhance the smoky bacon and creamy egg notes without overwhelming the delicate dish.
  • Serve with Tangy Fruit Compote: Prepare a quick berry or citrus compote with minimal sugar to add bright, acidic notes that help cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy egg cups.

Cheesy Egg Cups Storage Made Simple

  • Refrigerate: Store cooled egg cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual egg cups tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
  • Microwave Reheat: Warm refrigerated egg cups for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add 10-15 seconds if needed, ensuring even heating.
  • Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place egg cups on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through completely.

Quick FAQs For Cheesy Egg Cups

  • Can I use frozen hash browns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen hash browns. Just make sure to thaw them completely and thoroughly drain excess moisture by pressing with paper towels to ensure a crispy base.

  • What if I don't have cheddar cheese?

You can substitute with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, monterey jack, or a blend of cheeses that melt well and complement the egg and potato flavors.

  • Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the bacon and ham with diced bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetarian-friendly ingredients to maintain the same delicious texture and flavor profile.

  • Can I prepare these egg cups in advance?

You can prepare the hash brown bases and egg mixture ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator.

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Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups Recipe

Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups Recipe


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4.9 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 42-45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Savory cheesy egg and hash brown cups deliver a breakfast revolution that transforms morning meals into irresistible bites. Crispy potato bases cradle fluffy eggs and melted cheese, promising a delightful start you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) frozen hash browns, thawed
  • 1 cup (240 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Protein and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1/2 cup (120 grams) cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup (60 grams) green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup (60 grams) diced ham

Seasoning and Binding:

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) milk
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 375°F and meticulously coat a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil to prevent adherence.
  2. Extract excess liquid from thawed hash browns by applying firm pressure with paper towels, ensuring a crisp potato base.
  3. Combine hash browns with half the cheddar cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to create a robust potato mixture.
  4. Firmly press the seasoned hash brown blend into each muffin cavity, sculpting a compact shell that climbs the compartment walls.
  5. Roast the potato crusts for 15 minutes until edges transform into a golden, crispy foundation.
  6. Vigorously whisk eggs and milk until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency for the creamy filling.
  7. Distribute bacon crumbles, diced ham, and sliced green onions across the par-baked hash brown vessels.
  8. Delicately pour the egg mixture into each cup, filling approximately three-quarters to accommodate potential expansion.
  9. Lavishly crown each cup with the remaining cheddar cheese for a molten, appetizing topping.
  10. Return to the oven, baking for 12-15 minutes until eggs solidify and cheese bubbles with a tempting golden hue.
  11. Extract from oven and permit a 5-minute resting period within the tin to stabilize the cup structure.
  12. Carefully liberate the cups by running a knife along the edges, presenting these savory morsels while piping hot.

Notes

  • Customize the protein by swapping bacon or ham with turkey bacon, plant-based bacon, or diced mushrooms for vegetarian options.
  • Use frozen or fresh hash browns interchangeably, ensuring they are thoroughly drained to prevent soggy cups.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like Swiss, pepper jack, or goat cheese to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Prepare these cups ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating overnight, then baking fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast solution.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 27-30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 210mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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