These Bacon Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Cups are a tasty treat! Made with crispy hash browns filled with fluffy eggs, savory bacon, and gooey cheese, they are a breakfast winner!
Who doesn’t love a hand-held breakfast? I can’t resist these little cups, especially when they’re warm. They also make great leftovers—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are quick and convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by grating fresh potatoes and squeezing out excess moisture.
Bacon: I love crispy bacon in these cups, but you can substitute with turkey bacon or even diced ham for a different flavor. Vegetarian options like cooked mushrooms or sautéed spinach also work well!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment! Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just make sure to shred it yourself for the best melt!
Chives: Fresh chives add a nice touch, but if you don’t have any, green onions or parsley can also brighten up the dish.
How Do I Get My Hash Brown Cups Super Crispy?
Getting those hash brown cups to crisp up nicely is key! Start by ensuring your hash browns are well-drained and thawed completely. Excess moisture can make them soggy.
- Mix the hash browns with the oil, salt, and pepper. This helps them crisp up better in the oven.
- Press them firmly into the muffin tin, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. This creates a nice cup shape.
- Bake until golden brown before adding the eggs—this helps reinforce the structure of the cups.
Patience is key! A few extra minutes can make all the difference in achieving that golden, crispy texture.
Bacon Egg And Cheese Hash Brown Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Hash Brown Cups:
- 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Filling:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 strips)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total time of about 45 minutes. Perfect for whipping up a delicious breakfast dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to help the cups release easily later on.
2. Prepare the Hash Browns:
In a medium bowl, toss the thawed hash browns with olive oil, salt, and pepper until everything is nicely coated. This will add flavor and help the cups crisp up in the oven.
3. Form the Hash Brown Cups:
Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the hash brown mixture and press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to create small nests. You want to make sure they hold together!
4. Bake the Hash Brown Cups:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the hash brown cups are starting to turn golden and crispy. This step is crucial for achieving a great texture.
5. Add the Eggs and Toppings:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven. Carefully crack one egg into each hash brown cup. Sprinkle the chopped bacon bits over the eggs, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Finish Baking:
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for another 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the eggs to ensure the whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny. If you like your yolks fully cooked, bake them a bit longer.
7. Cool and Remove:
When finished, let the hash brown cups cool for a few minutes in the pan. Run a butter knife around the edges to help loosen them. Carefully remove each cup from the tin.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delicious cups right away and enjoy!
These Bacon Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Cups are not just tasty; they are a fun and easy breakfast option that everyone will love!
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you want to use fresh potatoes, just grate them and make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing with the oil, salt, and pepper. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
What Else Can I Add to the Filling?
You can customize the filling to your liking! Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions, spinach, or even different kinds of cheese for variety. Just ensure they are pre-cooked before adding them to the cups.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (if they last that long!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hash brown cups the day before and store them unfilled in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just crack the eggs and add the toppings before baking. This makes for a quick and easy breakfast!