Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes—the deliciously easy *Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Muffins*! If you’re like me, the mornings can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of chaos, and the struggle to prepare a decent breakfast often leaves you reaching for boring cereal. Not anymore! These muffins are a game-changer. Not only are they satisfying and packed with flavor, but they also freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time and pop them in the oven on those especially hectic mornings.
I remember the first time I made these beauties. It was a chilly Sunday, and I wanted something hearty but didn’t feel like spending all morning in the kitchen. I threw together a few basic ingredients, and what came out of the oven was pure eggy, cheesy bliss. The crispy hash brown base holds everything together, making them perfect for snacking, sharing, or enjoying on a cozy brunch with friends. You can also get creative with add-ins like veggies or different types of cheese; there’s a whole world of possibilities!
What’s in Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Muffins?
Let’s break down the star players in this delicious dish:
Frozen Hash Browns: The key to the crispy base! Go for thawed frozen hash browns for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can shred your own. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture!
Cooked Ham: I love using diced ham for that savory protein punch. A leftover ham steak works like a charm here, but deli ham will do just fine as well.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because cheese makes everything better, right? I usually opt for sharp cheddar for that rich flavor, but medium works too.
Large Eggs: The heart of the muffin—large and in charge! They provide structure and make everything deliciously fluffy.
Milk: Just a splash to keep the egg mixture nice and creamy.
Black Pepper, Salt, Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of these adds just the right amount of flavor. The garlic powder is optional, but it really does enhance the dish!
Cooking Spray or Oil: Necessary for ensuring that our muffins don’t stick like clingy friends on a Saturday night.
Is Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Muffins Good for You?
Absolutely! These muffins are a fantastic source of protein from the eggs and ham. They’ll keep you full and satisfied, which is essential for tackling the day ahead. Additionally, the hash browns provide a comforting base that can also give you those reliable carbs.
However, since we’re indulging in a bit of cheese and ham, I’d suggest enjoying these in moderation if you’re keeping an eye on sodium intake. And if you want to make them a bit healthier, feel free to swap out the regular cheese for low-fat cheese or even add in some spinach or bell peppers to sneak in a few extra veggies without losing that delicious flavor.
Ingredients
– 2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing muffin tin
*Yields about 12 muffins.*
How to Make Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Muffins?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
3. Press the hash brown mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to form a nest, packing them tightly.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder (if using) until well combined.
5. Add the diced ham and the remaining cheddar cheese to the egg mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
6. Pour the egg and ham mixture evenly over the hash brown nests in the muffin tin.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg is set and the tops are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before using a knife to gently loosen the edges and remove them from the tin.
9. Serve warm, and enjoy your delightful Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Muffins! You can also store any leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast option later.
Delicious Variations and Serving Suggestions!
You’d be amazed at how versatile these muffins can be! Feel free to switch up the protein by using cooked bacon, turkey ham, or even crumbled sausage instead of the diced ham. For something extra special, throw in some green onions or bell peppers to give it a fresh twist.
These muffins make the perfect pair with a side of fresh fruit or some spicy salsa for dipping. I personally love to bake a big batch at the beginning of the week—let me tell you, they reheat like a dream. Trust me; your future self will thank you!
I hope you give these Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Muffins a whirl! They’re not just a recipe; they’re a way to ensure your mornings start off right. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you—share your experiences and any fun tweaks you make! Happy cooking!
