Hash Brown Egg Cups Recipe

If you’re looking for a breakfast that combines crispy, golden hash browns with creamy, perfectly baked eggs, this Hash Brown Egg Cups Recipe is going to become a fast favorite in your kitchen. It’s such a fun and delicious way to start the day, with individual cups packed full of breakfast goodness, cheese, and a pop of colorful bell pepper. Quick to assemble and impressive enough for guests, these egg cups bring warmth and comfort with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing a special touch to the dish. The shredded hash browns give that crispy texture, eggs provide protein and richness, and the colorful veggies and cheese add flavor and vibrancy.

• 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: The crispy base of the dish that forms the perfect crunchy nest.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps crisp the hash browns and adds a subtle, fruity note.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spicy kick to keep things interesting.
• 6 large eggs: The star of each cup, providing creaminess once baked.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the eggs, adding richness and a sharp bite.
• ¼ cup diced bell pepper: For sweetness and a burst of color to brighten up the dish.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: A fresh, mild onion flavor to finish the egg cups with style.
• Cooking spray: Ensures your muffin tin releases every crispy cup easily.

How to Make Hash Brown Egg Cups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Setting the oven early ensures everything cooks perfectly when your ingredients are ready.

Step 2: Season the Hash Browns

In a large bowl, toss the thawed hash browns with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This evenly coats the hash browns, ensuring every crispy bite is flavorful and well-seasoned. The olive oil will help crisp them up magnificently in the oven.

Step 3: Form the Hash Brown Nests

Divide the hash brown mixture evenly into each muffin cup. Press them firmly down and up the sides to create little nests that will hold your eggs snugly. Taking the time to press well means those edges get beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 4: Bake the Nests

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. During this stage, the hash browns will transform from soft to golden and crispy, forming a sturdy and delicious base ready to hold the filling.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Eggs

Carefully remove the tin from the oven. Sprinkle each nest with shredded cheddar cheese and diced bell pepper for extra gooeyness and flavor bursts. Then gently crack one large egg into each nest, being mindful not to break the yolk if you prefer it runny.

Step 6: Final Bake for the Perfect Egg Cups

Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked exactly how you like them. Whether you want a soft yolk or a firmer center, this step is where the magic happens.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the fresh chopped chives on top. They add a lovely fresh flavor and make the presentation pop. Serve these warm for the ultimate comforting breakfast or brunch treat.

How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Cups Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to get creative with garnishes beyond chives. Slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can all elevate each cup. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro also add a beautiful finish both for flavor and color.

Side Dishes

These Hash Brown Egg Cups pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a tangy tomato salsa. For a heartier brunch, consider serving alongside turkey bacon or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the eggs and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the egg cups in decorative mini muffin tins for parties or buffets. You can also use different colored bell peppers or mix in chopped spinach or mushrooms inside the nests to customize flavor and add a personal touch that suits your mood or occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Hash Brown Egg Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them perfect for easy breakfasts or snacks on busy mornings when time is short but you still want something delicious and homemade.

Freezing

These cups freeze really well. Place cooled egg cups on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to two months so you always have a quick meal prepped and ready!

Reheating

To reheat, pop frozen or refrigerated egg cups in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to bring back the crispy edges and melt the cheese perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you shred fresh potatoes, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel before seasoning and baking. This helps maintain crispiness in the final dish.

Can I add other vegetables to the egg cups?

Yes, diced onions, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes make great additions. Just keep the veggie pieces small so they cook evenly and fit nicely inside the hash brown nests.

What if I want to make these vegan or dairy-free?

Try substituting eggs with a tofu scramble or chickpea flour mixture, and use vegan cheese alternatives. Keep the same method but adjust baking times slightly based on your chosen replacements.

How do I know when the eggs are done?

The eggs should be set around the edges but can remain slightly soft in the center if you prefer. For fully cooked eggs, bake until the whites and yolks are firm to the touch—about 10 minutes in this recipe.

Can I make these ahead for a crowd?

Definitely! Prepare the hash brown nests and fill them just before baking. You can also bake everything in advance, then reheat in the oven before serving. They’re an excellent choice for feeding groups with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Hash Brown Egg Cups Recipe as your new breakfast superstar. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and so versatile for any morning mood. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these little pockets of yum as much as I do!

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