Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups Recipe

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Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups are a delicious and convenient breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings or a weekend brunch. These individual servings combine crispy hash browns with fluffy scrambled eggs and melty cheddar cheese, making them a hit with the whole family. Optional additions like bell peppers and onions add extra flavor and nutrients. Enjoy these tasty cups fresh from the oven with your favorite toppings!

Total Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 4 tbsp butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
  • Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Hash Brown Cups:

  • In a bowl, mix the thawed hash browns with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
  • Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
  • Press the hash brown mixture into the bottoms and up the sides of each muffin cup to form little nests.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.

3. Make the Scrambled Eggs:

  • While the hash browns are baking, whisk together the eggs and milk in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring frequently, until the eggs are softly scrambled. Add the diced bell peppers and onions at this stage if you’re using them.

4. Assemble and Bake:

  • Spoon the scrambled eggs into each hash brown cup.
  • Top with shredded cheese.
  • Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve:

  • Allow the egg hash brown cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin.
  • Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or additional toppings like chopped chives, salsa, or sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast.
  • Serve alongside bacon or sausage for a heartier meal.
  • Add a dollop of guacamole or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid sogginess.
  • For extra crispiness, broil the hash brown cups for the last few minutes of baking.
  • Use a silicone muffin tin for easy removal and cleanup.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
  • Adding bell peppers and onions increases the fiber and vitamin content.
  • Balanced Meal: This dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.

Dietary Information

  • Dairy-Free: This recipe can be made dairy-free by using a non-dairy cheese substitute and milk alternative.
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure the hash browns are gluten-free for a gluten-free option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Make-Ahead: It’s a perfect breakfast for meal prep.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crispy hash browns, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese is hard to resist.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite veggies and toppings for a personalized touch.

Conclusion

Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Egg and Hash Brown Cups as a delicious and convenient breakfast or brunch option. Perfect for any occasion, these savory cups are sure to be a favorite with family and friends. Serve them with your favorite toppings and enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make these cups ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.
  2. What other cheeses can I use?
    • You can use mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
  3. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
    • Yes, grate fresh potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
  4. How can I make these cups vegetarian?
    • The recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that any added toppings are vegetarian-friendly.
  5. Can I add meat to this recipe?
    • Absolutely! Cooked bacon, sausage, or ham would be great additions.
  6. How do I prevent the hash browns from sticking to the muffin tin?
    • Make sure to grease the muffin tin well or use a silicone muffin tin for easy removal.
  7. Can I omit the milk?
    • Yes, the milk is optional and can be omitted without affecting the recipe significantly.
  8. Are these cups suitable for a low-carb diet?
    • The hash browns are not low-carb, but you can substitute with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
  9. Can I add spinach or other greens?
    • Yes, finely chopped spinach or kale would be a great addition to these cups.
  10. How do I reheat leftovers?
    • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

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