Ham Cheese Egg Cups

These ham and cheese egg cups have been my lifesaver on mornings when I need something quick, satisfying, and portable. They come together in under 30 minutes and require only a muffin tin and a handful of simple ingredients. This recipe is a perfect mix of protein and flavor with the salty ham and melty cheese wrapped around gently baked eggs.

I first made these cups when I needed breakfast for a road trip and was amazed at how well they held together and how delicious they were even cold. Now they are a regular in my meal prep rotation.

Ingredients

• Cooking spray: to grease the muffin tin avoiding sticking
• Slices of ham: provide the salty, savory base opt for thicker slices so they hold shape well
• Shredded cheddar: offers a rich melted layer but feel free to try other cheeses for different flavors
• Large eggs: are the star of the dish use fresh eggs for the best texture and flavor
• Kosher salt: seasons the eggs simply enhancing the overall taste
• Freshly ground black pepper: adds gentle heat
• Finely chopped fresh parsley: adds a bright herbal finish when sprinkled on top

Step-by-Step Instructions

Arrange and Preheat:

Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly with cooking spray to ensure the egg cups do not stick and come out cleanly.

Line the Muffin Cups:

Take one slice of ham and line each cup in the muffin tin, shaping it to form a little cup that will hold the egg. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheddar over the ham to add melty richness under the egg.

Add the Eggs and Season:

Carefully crack one large egg into each ham-lined cup. Sprinkle each egg with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring out the flavors.

Bake until Set:

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes depending on how runny you like your yolks. Around 10 to 12 minutes will give a softer yolk but remember the eggs continue cooking slightly after removing from the oven.

Garnish and Serve:

Once baked, top the egg cups with finely chopped fresh parsley to add a bit of color and fresh flavor. Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin as they will be hot.

Bookmark

My favorite part is how the ham crisps slightly around the edges during baking giving a nice contrast to the soft egg. One morning my kids ate these on the way to school and asked for them every week after that which says a lot.

Storage Tips

Store leftover egg cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They reheat well in the microwave or toaster oven so you can enjoy them warm or quickly fix them on your way out the door. You can also freeze these egg cups by wrapping individually and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ham for sliced deli turkey, which gives a lighter flavor or try salami for a spicier, thicker option. Instead of cheddar, you can use Gruyere for a nuttier flavor or Parmesan for a salty sharpness. For a dairy-free version, omit cheese and add herbs or diced vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these egg cups with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for a balanced meal. They are equally good as a protein-packed snack anytime during the day. Pair with a cup of coffee or tea to round out your breakfast ritual.

Pro Tips

• Always grease the muffin tin well to make sure the egg cups release easily
• Check the eggs a few minutes early if you like runny yolks because they keep cooking after removing from the oven
• Try sprinkling fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, or green onion on top for extra flavor and color

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long should I cook the egg cups?

Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes depending on how set you prefer the yolks. Around 10 to 12 minutes favors runny yolks but allow cooling in the tin as eggs continue cooking.

→ Is a muffin tin necessary to make these?

Yes, the muffin tin shapes the ham and eggs into convenient individual portions and helps them cook evenly.

→ Can other meats be used instead of ham?

Sliced deli turkey or salami can replace ham. Salami may require multiple slices to properly hold the egg.

→ What are good cheese alternatives for these cups?

Try Gruyere, Parmesan, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles that melt well with the eggs and ham.

→ How can I add fresh herbs to the egg cups?

Garnish finished cups with chopped parsley, cilantro, or sliced green onions to add brightness and extra flavor.