Ham and Cheese Egg Cups

Ham & Cheese Egg Cups are a quick, low-carb, high-protein breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings. Made with just three ingredients—ham, eggs, and cheese—they’re baked in a muffin tin for easy prep and cleanup. These portable egg bites are delicious warm or cold, making them ideal for meal prep, brunch buffets, or grab-and-go breakfasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe checks every box for a great breakfast: fast, simple, flavorful, and nutritious. With a crispy ham base, melted cheese, and soft-baked eggs, every bite is savory and satisfying. They’re customizable with different cheeses and herbs, and they store well for future meals. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning ahead for the week, these egg cups are a lifesaver.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooking spray, for pan
12 slices ham
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 large eggs
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.

2. Line each muffin cup with one slice of ham, pressing it gently to form a base. Sprinkle each with shredded cheddar.

3. Crack one egg into each ham cup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on how runny you prefer your egg yolks. For softer yolks, remove closer to the 12-minute mark. The eggs will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 egg cups
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Different meats: Use sliced deli turkey or salami instead of ham. For salami, you may need two slices per cup for full coverage.

• Cheese swaps: Try Gruyere, mozzarella, pepper jack, or Parmesan in place of cheddar.

• Add herbs: Sprinkle with chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro for extra flavor.

• Veggie boost: Add finely chopped spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers beneath the egg for added nutrients.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let egg cups cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Microwave for 20–30 seconds until warmed through, or reheat in a 325ºF oven for 5–8 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these egg cups ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for meal prep. Make a batch, refrigerate, and reheat as needed throughout the week.

What kind of ham works best?

Use thinly sliced deli ham that’s pliable enough to mold into the muffin tin. Avoid overly thick or dry slices.

Can I freeze ham and cheese egg cups?

Yes. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave or oven.

How do I prevent the egg cups from sticking?

Use nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease the muffin tin with oil before assembling.

Can I scramble the eggs first?

Absolutely. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into each ham cup for a quiche-like texture.

Are these keto-friendly?

Yes, these egg cups are low in carbs and high in protein, making them suitable for keto diets.

How do I keep the yolks runny?

Bake closer to 12 minutes and let them rest briefly after removing from the oven—they’ll continue to cook slightly in the tin.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What can I use instead of a muffin tin?

A silicone muffin mold works well, or you can use ramekins—but the cooking time may vary slightly.

Can I add toppings?

Yes. Top with salsa, avocado slices, hot sauce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Ham & Cheese Egg Cups are the ultimate breakfast hack—delicious, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. With minimal prep and cleanup, they fit effortlessly into busy schedules while delivering on flavor and nutrition. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or reheat throughout the week, these savory bites are a go-to favorite for mornings made easy.

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