Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups Recipe

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Directions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.

  2. Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 6 eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  3. Prepare the filling: In a separate small bowl, combine the cooked and chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.

  4. Assemble the egg cups: Evenly distribute the bacon and cheese mixture into the muffin tin cups, filling each about halfway. Then, pour the egg mixture over the top of the filling in each muffin cup, dividing it equally.

  5. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg cups are set and lightly golden on top. If you like a firmer texture, you can bake them a bit longer.

  6. Serve: Allow the egg cups to cool for a minute or two before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm, and enjoy these tasty, cheesy egg cups!

Nutritional Facts (Per serving, assuming 6 servings)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 20%
  • Vitamin C: 2%
  • Calcium: 10%
  • Iron: 6%

Why You’ll Love Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups

Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups have all the elements of a well-balanced breakfast: protein-rich eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful and filling dish. These egg cups are baked in a muffin tin, resulting in individual portions that are easy to store, grab, and enjoy on the go. Whether you follow a low-carb, keto-friendly, or high-protein diet, these egg cups fit seamlessly into your meal plan.

Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: With a simple prep time of 10 minutes and a baking time of about 15-20 minutes, these egg cups are ready in less than half an hour.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch in advance, store them in the fridge, and reheat for a convenient breakfast throughout the week.
  • Customizable: Swap bacon for turkey bacon, sausage, ham, or even plant-based alternatives. Add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or tomatoes for extra nutrition.
  • Kid-Friendly: These bite-sized egg cups are a fun way to get kids to eat more protein without any fuss.

The Perfect Make-Ahead Breakfast

Mornings can be hectic, and having a grab-and-go breakfast option can make all the difference. These Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups are ideal for meal prepping because they can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and even frozen for longer shelf life. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven, and you’ll have a warm, satisfying breakfast in minutes.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap individual egg cups in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Microwave for 20-30 seconds if refrigerated or 1-2 minutes if frozen. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutritional Benefits of Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups

One of the standout features of this recipe is its high protein content. Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and Choline, which support brain function and metabolism. Bacon adds a savory and smoky flavor, while cheddar cheese provides calcium and a creamy texture.

For those on a keto or low-carb diet, these egg cups are an excellent breakfast choice as they contain minimal carbohydrates and keep you full for hours. If you want to make them even healthier, consider using turkey bacon or lean ham and adding fiber-rich vegetables.

Customization Ideas for a Personal Touch

The beauty of Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups is how versatile they are. You can adjust the recipe based on dietary preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

  • Meat Alternatives: Swap bacon with diced ham, turkey bacon, sausage crumbles, or even smoked salmon for a different twist.
  • Cheese Options: While cheddar works beautifully, you can also use mozzarella, feta, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese for a unique flavor profile.
  • Vegetables: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a boost of vitamins and fiber.
  • Spice it Up: If you love bold flavors, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika.
  • Herbs & Seasonings: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil can enhance the overall taste, giving these egg cups a gourmet touch.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups

These egg cups are perfect on their own, but they can also be part of a larger breakfast spread. Pair them with:

  • Avocado slices for a boost of healthy fats
  • A fresh fruit salad for a touch of sweetness
  • Whole grain toast or English muffins for a heartier meal
  • Greek yogurt and granola for a balanced breakfast

For brunch gatherings, serve these alongside other classics like pancakes, waffles, or breakfast potatoes to create a delicious variety that pleases everyone at the table.

Conclusion

Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups are the ultimate easy, nutritious, and customizable breakfast option. They are perfect for meal prepping, require minimal effort, and taste absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast, a dish for a brunch gathering, or a high-protein snack, these egg cups check all the boxes. Plus, with so many ways to customize them, you’ll never get bored! Try making a batch today and enjoy the convenience of a delicious homemade breakfast anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Bacon and Cheddar Egg Cups ahead of time? Yes! These egg cups are perfect for meal prep. Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them before serving.

2. How do I prevent my egg cups from sticking to the muffin tin? To avoid sticking, grease your muffin tin well with cooking spray, butter, or oil. You can also use silicone muffin liners for easy removal.

3. Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic, you can experiment with mozzarella, feta, Swiss, or even goat cheese for different flavors.

4. What can I substitute for bacon? If you don’t eat bacon, try turkey bacon, diced ham, sausage crumbles, or a vegetarian alternative like sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

5. Can I make these egg cups dairy-free? Yes! Simply omit the cheese and replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk.

6. How do I know when the egg cups are fully cooked? The egg cups should be set and slightly golden on top. You can insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

7. Can I add vegetables to the recipe? Definitely! Try adding bell peppers, onions, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

8. How do I reheat frozen egg cups? For best results, microwave them for 1-2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Ingredients

For the egg mixture:

  • 6 eggs
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the filling:

  • 4 bacon strips, cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp green onion, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a separate small bowl, mix the cooked and chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
  4. Assemble the egg cups: Evenly distribute the bacon and cheese mixture into the muffin tin cups, filling each about halfway. Then, pour the egg mixture over the top of the filling in each muffin cup, dividing it equally.
  5. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg cups are set and lightly golden on top. If you prefer a firmer texture, bake them a little longer.
  6. Serve: Allow the egg cups to cool for a minute or two before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes.
  • Customization: Feel free to swap out the bacon for ham, turkey bacon, sausage, or plant-based alternatives. You can also add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cheese and use a dairy-free milk alternative for a lactose-free version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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