Hash Brown Breakfast Cups

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Imagine starting your day with a delightful breakfast that combines all your favorite morning flavors in one bite. These Hash Brown Breakfast Cups are like a warm hug for your taste buds, offering a crispy hash brown nest filled with savory ham, sautéed vegetables, gooey melted cheese, and topped with a perfectly cooked sunny side up egg. Not only do they make for a fantastic breakfast or brunch option, but they’re also versatile enough to enjoy for lunch or dinner alongside a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These breakfast cups are a one-dish wonder that simplifies meal prep and cleanup. They bring together a combination of textures and flavors that will make your morning routine both delicious and satisfying. Plus, they’re customizable to suit your preferences, whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Jumbo-sized muffin tin
Cooking spray
Microwave (optional)
Oven
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Butter knife

Ingredients

4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
3 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
7 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced ham

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Generously spray your muffin tin with cooking spray.
Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the hash brown mixture. Use your fingers to press the mixture down and mold it into a cup shape.
Bake the hash brown cups in the oven for 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
While the hash browns are baking, whisk together the eggs and milk in a separate bowl. Stir in the shredded cheese and diced ham.
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Fill the hash brown cups almost to the top with the egg mixture.
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
Let the breakfast cups cool for a couple of minutes. Use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges and carefully remove them from the tin to a serving dish.

Tips for Success

Ensure the hash browns are well thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. Press them firmly into the muffin tin to create a sturdy crust.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize the filling. Swap ham for bacon, sausage, or prosciutto. Vegetarians can skip the meat and add extra veggies like tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 200, Protein: 12g, Carbohydrates: 15g, Fat: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these breakfast cups ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and reheat them in the microwave.

What if I don’t have jumbo muffin tins? You can use regular muffin tins, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

These Hash Brown Breakfast Cups are a delightful way to start your day, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out for you. Share your creations and any variations you come up with—we’d love to hear from you!

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