Enjoy a delightful start to your day with egg cups! These fluffy, flavorful bites are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, egg cups can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making them a versatile choice. Whether you’re a busy professional or a weekend chef, egg cups will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 egg cup) contains approximately 180 calories, 12g protein, 12g fat, and 2g carbohydrates. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary with substitutions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a muffin tin or egg cup holders with cooking spray.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
4. Stir in the shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, and ham or bacon.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the egg cups are set and lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Carefully remove the egg cups from the tin.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste. For a vegetarian option, replace ham with sautéed spinach or mushrooms. Use dairy-free milk and cheese for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
Egg cups pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, a side salad, or toasted bread. They can also be served alongside a light yogurt parfait for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover egg cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overbaking can lead to dry egg cups; keep an eye on them.
- Not greasing the muffin tin may cause sticking.
- Using cold ingredients can prevent the eggs from fluffing up.
- Skip the salt until after cooking to avoid over-seasoning.
- Don’t overcrowd the cups; leave space for rising.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick.
- Use leftover vegetables from previous meals to reduce waste.
- Try using muffin liners for easier cleanup.
FAQs
Can I make egg cups ahead of time?
Yes, egg cups can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat them before serving.
What size muffin tin should I use?
A standard muffin tin works best for making egg cups. Each cup should be greased to prevent sticking.
Can I use egg substitutes?
Absolutely! Egg substitutes or flax eggs can be used for a lower-cholesterol option, but the texture may vary slightly.
Are egg cups suitable for meal prep?
Yes, they are perfect for meal prep! Make a batch and store them for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
What can I serve with egg cups?
Egg cups are versatile and can be served with fresh fruit, toast, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Egg cups are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy eggs. With endless customization options, they are perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing breakfast for yourself, these delightful bites are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Egg Cups
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a muffin tin or egg cup holders with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
- Stir in shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, and ham or bacon.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the egg cups are set and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Carefully remove the egg cups from the tin.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
