Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups

The classic combination of ham and eggs gets a fun, bite-sized twist with these Ham and Egg Muffin Cups. Baked to perfection in a muffin tin, each cup is a satisfying portion packed with protein, flavor, and melty cheese. Whether you’re planning a busy weekday breakfast or a special brunch spread, this recipe brings both convenience and comfort.

Perfect for those on low-carb or gluten-free diets, these ham cups are endlessly customizable. Swap in different cheeses, add sautéed veggies, or use turkey or prosciutto instead of ham. Best of all, they can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a lifesaver for hectic mornings or meal prepping enthusiasts.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)

• 12 large eggs

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.

2. Line each muffin cup with a slice of ham, pressing it gently to form a cup shape.

3. Crack one egg into each ham cup.

4. Sprinkle each egg with a bit of salt, pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives (if using).

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your liking.

6. Let them cool for 2–3 minutes before gently removing them from the tin with a spoon. Serve warm.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 140 kcal per cup | Servings: 12 servings

Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups: The Perfect Quick and Protein-Packed Morning Meal

If there’s one meal that sets the tone for the rest of your day, it’s breakfast. For many of us, mornings are a whirlwind of activity from getting the kids ready for school to preparing for a busy workday. That’s where this delicious, nutritious, and downright easy recipe for Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups comes in. Not only are these savory little bites packed with protein and flavor, but they’re also low in carbs, customizable, and ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up brunch for a crowd, these baked cups are the answer to your breakfast woes.

Why You’ll Love These Ham and Egg Cups

Ham and egg cups are more than just a cute breakfast idea, they’re a smart, practical solution to the “what’s for breakfast?” dilemma. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: thin slices of deli ham act as the crust, forming edible little cups that cradle freshly cracked eggs. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, some herbs, and a dash of salt and pepper, and you’ve got a wholesome breakfast with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

They’re also naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly, which makes them a great option for those following special diets. With only a few simple ingredients and a muffin tin, you can create a protein-packed breakfast that feels gourmet without the stress.

The Nutritional Benefits of Ham and Eggs

Both ham and eggs are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, hormone production, and keeping you full longer throughout the day. Eggs also contain a wide range of vital nutrients including vitamins B12, D, A, and minerals such as iron and selenium. Meanwhile, ham contributes additional protein and B vitamins.

Including a good amount of protein in your morning meal can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce mid-morning energy crashes. For those watching their carb intake or aiming to eat more whole, unprocessed foods, this recipe checks all the right boxes.

Make-Ahead Friendly and Freezer-Approved

One of the best features of these ham and egg cups is how well they work for meal prepping. You can make a full batch on Sunday, store them in an airtight container, and reheat them throughout the week. They maintain their texture and flavor when stored properly in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze them in a single layer and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm in the microwave or toaster oven before serving.

This makes them a go-to solution for busy families, students, or professionals who want something hearty and homemade on the go.

Customization Ideas to Suit Every Palate

While the original recipe uses ham, eggs, cheese, and optional chives, there are so many ways to make these cups your own. Here are some creative twists to consider:

Cheese Varieties:

• Cheddar – sharp and melty

• Feta – crumbly with a salty kick

• Swiss – mild and nutty

• Pepper Jack – spicy and bold

Veggie Add-ins:

• Spinach (chopped)

• Bell peppers (diced)

• Cherry tomatoes (halved)

• Onions or scallions (thinly sliced)

• Mushrooms (sautéed first for best texture)

Protein Alternatives:

• Turkey or chicken slices instead of ham

• Prosciutto for a gourmet twist

• Vegan ham slices for a plant-based version

• Add crumbled sausage or bacon bits inside the egg for extra richness

Spice It Up:

• Red pepper flakes

• A dash of hot sauce

• Everything bagel seasoning on top

The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different ingredients will help you keep this breakfast fresh and exciting.

Ideal for Brunch Parties and Potlucks

Hosting a brunch get-together? These ham and egg cups are the ideal addition to your menu. They look adorable on a platter and are easy for guests to grab and enjoy, no silverware needed. Serve them alongside fresh fruit, muffins, or a salad for a well-rounded spread.

You can also double or triple the batch to serve larger crowds without adding a ton of work in the kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that helps you look like a brunch superstar without breaking a sweat.

Kid-Friendly and School-Approved

If you struggle with picky eaters at home, you’ll be pleased to know that these cups are also kid-approved. The fun, muffin-like appearance makes them appealing to little ones, and the simple flavors are easy on sensitive palates. Pack them in a lunchbox or serve them as an after-school snack. You can even let the kids customize their own cups with the fillings they like best, turning breakfast into a fun, interactive activity.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

• Use thin ham slices: Thicker ham may not mold as easily into the muffin cups and can become rubbery when baked.

• Grease the pan well: Even though ham has natural fat, it’s best to lightly oil the muffin tin or use non-stick spray to ensure easy release.

• Don’t overbake: If you like runnier yolks, check your cups at the 12-minute mark. For fully cooked eggs, 15 minutes is perfect.

• Let them rest: Allowing the cups to sit for a couple of minutes after baking helps them firm up and makes removal easier.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerate: Store cooled ham and egg cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Once completely cooled, freeze on a tray. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. For a crisper edge, use a toaster oven or air fryer.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

• Busy professionals who want a protein-rich breakfast with minimal prep

• Parents looking for quick, healthy options for kids

• Meal preppers who want a versatile and freezer-friendly dish

• Low-carb or keto eaters who need satisfying, grain-free meals

• Brunch hosts who want bite-sized, crowd-pleasing appetizers

This recipe is truly a universal winner. It checks all the boxes: quick, customizable, nutritious, and delicious.

Conclusion

Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups prove that a nutritious breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few ingredients and a muffin tin, you can create a meal that’s high in protein, low in carbs, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers flexibility, convenience, and satisfaction in every bite.

Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy a no-stress breakfast all week long. Or bring them to your next brunch and watch them disappear in minutes. However you enjoy them, one thing is certain: once you try these ham and egg cups, they’ll become a permanent part of your breakfast rotation.