Baked Eggs in Ham Cups are a simple, yet impressive breakfast or brunch dish that combines the richness of eggs with the savory flavors of ham. The ham acts as an edible “cup,” perfectly cradling the egg as it bakes, creating a delicious combination of textures with a crispy, salty exterior and a tender, runny yolk inside. This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly versatile — you can add various toppings or mix-ins, like cheese, herbs, or vegetables, to suit your taste. It’s a great option for a protein-packed breakfast, a low-carb brunch, or even a fun way to serve eggs at your next gathering. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can easily be customized to feed a crowd or made in individual servings.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of ham (preferably thin slices, deli or breakfast ham works best)
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (chives, parsley, or thyme — optional)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or non-stick spray (for greasing)
- Optional toppings: hot sauce, avocado slices, sautéed spinach, or cooked bacon crumbles
Instructions:
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard muffin tin with a light coating of olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Create the Ham Cups:
- Gently press one slice of ham into each muffin cup to form a cup shape. If the ham is too large, fold or overlap the edges to make sure it completely lines the bottom and sides of the muffin tin. You can use any type of ham you prefer, but thicker slices will work best to hold the egg.
- Add the Eggs:
- Carefully crack one egg into each ham cup. Be careful not to break the yolk, and avoid letting any eggs spill over the edge. If you’re concerned about getting the yolk intact, you can crack each egg into a small bowl first, then gently slide it into the ham cup.
- Season and Add Cheese:
- Season each egg with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top of each egg, then sprinkle with your choice of fresh herbs.
- Bake the Ham Cups:
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on how runny or firm you like your yolks. For soft, runny yolks, start checking around 12 minutes. If you prefer a firmer yolk, bake for closer to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Serve:
- Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Let the ham cups cool for a minute or two before using a spoon or butter knife to gently lift them out of the muffin tin.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or sides, such as avocado slices, a sprinkle of hot sauce, or a side of roasted vegetables or toast.
