Effortless Ham & Egg Bites: The Ultimate High-Protein Meal Prep Breakfast

Transform your meal prep routine and elevate your mornings with these incredibly simple yet utterly satisfying Ham and Egg Bites! Whether you’re looking for a quick, protein-packed breakfast to grab on a busy weekday, a hearty snack to fuel your afternoon, or an impressive, crowd-pleasing dish for a brunch gathering, this recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover ham, turning what might otherwise go to waste into a delicious and wholesome treat. These individual egg cups are not only convenient but also fully customizable, ensuring everyone at your table finds something to love. Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to a flavorful start to your day that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum taste and nutrition. Perfect for busy families, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a delicious and healthy breakfast solution.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Family-Favorite Recipe!

There are countless reasons why these Ham and Egg Bites have become a beloved staple in many households, and why they’re destined to become one in yours!

• Ultimate Convenience for Busy Mornings: Imagine waking up, grabbing a few of these savory bites from the fridge, and having a warm, delicious, and nutritious breakfast ready in seconds. They are the epitome of grab-and-go efficiency, perfect for hectic school mornings or a quick bite before work. Prepare a batch at the start of the week, and enjoy stress-free breakfasts all week long.
• Economical and Budget-Friendly: With just a few core ingredients – ham, eggs, and cheese – this recipe keeps your grocery bill in check. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover holiday ham, transforming it into an entirely new and exciting meal. This makes it an ideal option for larger families looking for substantial yet affordable meal solutions without compromising on flavor or protein.
• Protein-Packed Powerhouse: Each bite is loaded with high-quality protein from the eggs and ham, keeping you feeling full and energized throughout the morning. This helps stave off those mid-morning cravings and supports a healthy, active lifestyle, making these an excellent choice for anyone focusing on a high-protein diet.
• Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion: Hosting brunch? Need a simple yet elegant appetizer? These ham and egg cups are incredibly easy to scale up for a crowd. They look fantastic on a platter and are a surefire hit with guests of all ages, offering a more exciting and personalized alternative to traditional scrambled eggs or omelets.
• Customizable to Your Liking: While the core recipe is fantastic on its own, it serves as a perfect canvas for culinary creativity. Easily add your favorite vegetables, different cheeses, or a variety of seasonings to tailor each batch to specific preferences or dietary needs.

Key Ingredients for Your Ham and Egg Bites

You’ll be amazed at how such a delicious and satisfying breakfast can come from such a short list of readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ham: The star of our show! For this breakfast recipe, I highly recommend using thin slices of deli ham. It’s easy to work with and forms perfect “nests” in the muffin tin. If you have leftover holiday ham, feel free to finely dice it and mix it into scrambled eggs before pouring into the ham cups.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds wonderful flavor and helps bind everything together. Your favorite brand of shredded cheddar cheese works perfectly here, but don’t hesitate to experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a sharp provolone for different flavor profiles.
• Eggs: Fresh large eggs are all you need. There’s no need to bring them to room temperature; they’ll cook beautifully straight from the fridge. For a creamier texture, you can lightly whisk them before adding to the ham cups.
• Seasoning: Keep it simple and let the natural flavors shine! A dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper is usually all you will need to perfectly season these bites. Adjust to your personal taste.

How to Make Delicious Ham and Egg Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these ham and egg bites is incredibly straightforward, perfect for novice cooks and seasoned pros alike. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

1. Begin by preheating your oven to a consistent 400 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 200 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is at the optimal temperature for even cooking and perfectly set eggs.

Step 2: Prepare Your Muffin Pan

1. Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly with a nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents sticking and makes for easy removal of your finished egg bites. If you want an even easier release, consider using a silicone muffin pan (more on that below!).

Step 3: Fill and Assemble Your Muffin Tin

1. Carefully line each muffin cup with 1 slice of ham. If you find your ham slices are particularly thin, you might want to use 1.5 to 2 slices per cup to create a more robust “ham nest” that cradles the egg and cheese beautifully. Press the ham gently against the sides and bottom of each cup.
2. Next, sprinkle a generous pinch of shredded cheese over the top of the ham in each cup. This will create a delicious cheesy layer that melts around the egg.
3. Crack one large egg directly into each ham-lined, cheese-sprinkled cup. Be gentle to keep the yolk intact if you prefer a runnier yolk, or break it if you like it more mixed.
4. Finally, season each egg with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper to your taste. This simple seasoning enhances all the flavors.
5. Bake the ham and egg bites in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through to your desired consistency. Some prefer a firmer yolk, while others enjoy a slightly jammy one. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Allow the bites to cool for a minute or two. Then, use a rubber spatula or a small spoon to gently go along the sides of each cup to release the ham and egg. Scoop them out and serve immediately.

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Ham and Egg Bites

By: Julia Pacheco

These Ham and Egg Bites are protein-packed, portable, and perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying snack that truly hits the spot. They are quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and ideal for meal prepping to simplify your busy week.

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 15 minutes mins

Total: 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

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Ingredients 

• ▢ Nonstick cooking spray
• ▢ 12-16 slices deli ham
• ▢ ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ▢ 12 large eggs
• ▢ Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions 

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
• Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with nonstick cooking spray.
• Line each muffin cup with 1 slice of ham (use 1.5-2 slices if ham is very thin). Sprinkle shredded cheese over the ham. Crack one egg into each cup, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through to your preferred doneness. Let cool slightly before serving.

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Nutrition

Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 371mg | Sodium: 851mg | Potassium: 289mg | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 570IU | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

How to Store and Reheat Your Ham and Egg Bites for a Simple Breakfast

One of the biggest advantages of these ham and egg bites is their excellent meal-prep potential. You can make a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Fridge: Allow the baked egg bites to cool completely after baking. Then, carefully place them into an airtight container or a resealable ziplock bag. They will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, these ham and egg bites freeze beautifully! After they have cooled completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Transfer the frozen bites to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. To reheat from frozen, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Ham and Egg Bites Every Time

While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few simple tips can elevate your ham and egg bites from good to absolutely fantastic!

Eggs: Whole or Scrambled?

I typically use one whole egg per muffin cup, as it creates a beautiful presentation and a distinct yolk. However, if you prefer a more uniform texture, or want to sneak in some extra ingredients, you can whisk the eggs together in a large bowl with a splash of milk or cream before pouring them over the cheese and ham nests. This creates a fluffy, frittata-like texture that many find irresistible.

Elevate with Toppings for Your Egg Bites:

While delicious on their own, a few simple toppings can truly enhance the flavor and presentation of your ham and egg bites. Keep it simple with a little more salt and freshly ground black pepper, or add a pop of color and flavor with some finely chopped green onions or fresh chives. A dash of your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of salsa can add a welcome kick. Consider serving with a side of avocado slices for healthy fats, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a bright finish.

More Egg Bite Flavor Options and Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your egg bites with different proteins, vegetables, and cheeses:

1. Switch up the Protein: Instead of deli ham, try using thinly sliced deli turkey, chopped pre-cooked bacon, or even crumbled breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile.
2. Canadian Bacon Magic: Substitute the deli ham with slices of Canadian bacon for a leaner, slightly sweeter twist.
3. Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers (any color!), spinach (sautéed and squeezed dry), mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the ham cups before adding the egg. This is a great way to increase your vegetable intake.
4. Aromatic Onions: Finely chopped and lightly sautéed onions can add a wonderful depth of flavor to your egg bites. Caramelized onions would be even better for a gourmet touch.
5. Herbaceous Delights: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, dill, chives, or basil into your egg mixture or sprinkle on top before baking for a burst of freshness.
6. Different Cheeses: Explore other cheeses beyond cheddar. Swiss, mozzarella, feta, or a Mexican blend can all offer unique tastes.

Make Getting the Egg Bites Out Super Simple with the Right Equipment

If you want to make cleanup and removal of your perfectly cooked egg bites an absolute breeze, invest in a silicone muffin pan. With a silicone pan, you can simply pop them right out with minimal effort and no sticking, ensuring your beautiful ham and egg cups remain intact every time. They are also incredibly easy to clean and often dishwasher safe.

Serving Suggestions for Your Ham and Egg Bites

These versatile ham and egg bites can be enjoyed in many ways. For a complete breakfast, serve them alongside:

• Fresh fruit salad or a bowl of berries.
• Whole-grain toast or English muffins.
• A light green salad for a brunch option.
• Baked potatoes or sweet potato hash for a heartier meal.
• A side of yogurt or cottage cheese for extra protein.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Egg Bites

Here are some common questions you might have when making these delicious breakfast bites:

• Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs? Yes, absolutely! If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can use all egg whites. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them.
• What if I don’t have deli ham? If you have leftover cooked ham, finely dice it and mix it into scrambled eggs before pouring it into the greased muffin cups (without lining with ham slices). You can also use other pre-cooked meats like bacon bits or sausage crumbles.
• How do I prevent the eggs from sticking? Generously greasing your muffin tin with nonstick spray is key. Using a silicone muffin pan or paper muffin liners can also help tremendously.
• Can I make these ahead for a party? Yes! These are perfect for entertaining. Prepare them the day before, store them in the fridge, and then gently reheat them in the oven before serving. They taste just as good the next day.
• Are these good for kids? Definitely! Their small, portable size and familiar flavors (ham, egg, cheese) make them a hit with children. You can even let kids help assemble them for a fun kitchen activity.
• Can I add vegetables? Yes, you can add finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Sauté them briefly before adding to the muffin cups to ensure they cook through properly and don’t release too much moisture.

Quick Links for Making Mealtime Easy and Stress-Free:

For more delicious recipes, meal planning tips, and kitchen hacks, check out these helpful resources:

• Access our complete family meal plans
• Discover essential tools for the kitchen and beyond
• Get your copy of the best cookbook for family dinner recipes
• Download our FREE budget-friendly meal plan
• Watch our helpful cooking videos on YouTube

These Ham and Egg Bites are truly a game-changer for anyone seeking a convenient, healthy, and delicious breakfast or snack. Give them a try, and you’ll quickly understand why they’re a family favorite!

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