These Spiral Ham Brunch Cups are the ultimate morning treat—crispy edges of savory ham cradle fluffy, cheesy eggs mixed with vibrant veggies, creating a beautiful and delicious breakfast bite. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also perfect for meal prepping, making busy mornings effortless.
Ideal for a weekend brunch spread or a quick weekday breakfast, these protein-packed cups are both keto-friendly and gluten-free. Customize them with your favorite cheese and vegetables for a dish that fits your taste. Whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or reheating them for a grab-and-go meal, these little brunch cups deliver big flavors in every bite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 12 slices spiral ham
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Place one slice of spiral ham into each muffin cup, gently pressing it down to create a cup shape.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped spinach, diced red bell pepper, and green onions.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly into each ham cup, filling about 3/4 of the way.
- Sprinkle a pinch of paprika on top of each cup for an extra touch of flavor.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and slightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let the cups cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 110 kcal per cup | Servings: 12 cups
History and Origin
The concept of ham-wrapped egg cups has its roots in classic European and American breakfasts, where cured meats like ham and bacon were often paired with eggs and cheese. This recipe is a modern, bite-sized twist on traditional ham and eggs, incorporating a convenient muffin-tin preparation method that makes them perfect for busy mornings, meal prepping, or brunch gatherings.
Spiral-cut ham itself is a popular American holiday staple, known for its sweet and savory glaze, making it a fantastic base for these egg cups. The combination of ham, eggs, cheese, and vegetables brings together both classic flavors and a healthier, high-protein approach to breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-Packed – Each serving is loaded with high-quality protein, making it an excellent choice for an energy-boosting breakfast.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – These cups are naturally low in carbohydrates, making them perfect for those following keto or low-carb diets.
- Easy to Make – Just a few simple steps and 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Customizable – Swap out veggies, cheese, or seasonings to match your taste preferences.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Make a batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Brunch Cups
- Use a Muffin Tin Liner – If you want an easier cleanup, place a small parchment liner or silicone baking cup before adding the ham.
- Don’t Overfill – Fill each ham cup only ¾ full with the egg mixture to prevent overflow while baking.
- Even Cooking – Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Crispier Ham – For a crispier texture, pre-bake the ham slices for 5 minutes before adding the egg mixture.
- Storage & Reheating –
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or bake at 300°F for 5-7 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Brunch – Pair with fresh fruit, toast, or roasted potatoes.
- Healthy Option – Serve with avocado slices and a green smoothie.
- Make it a Sandwich – Place inside a toasted English muffin for a protein-packed breakfast sandwich.
- Saucy Addition – Drizzle with hot sauce, hollandaise, or a light aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs About Spiral Ham Brunch Cups
1. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
2. What’s the best way to keep these warm for a brunch gathering?
Keep them in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve. Alternatively, use a warming tray or slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake them in advance, refrigerate or freeze, and reheat when needed. They hold up well for meal prep.
4. Can I add meat inside the egg mixture?
Yes, cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or diced turkey can be mixed into the eggs for extra protein.
5. How do I prevent the egg mixture from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to coat the muffin tin well with non-stick spray or use silicone baking cups to ensure easy removal.
These Spiral Ham Brunch Cups are a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and protein-rich breakfast. Whether you’re making them for a busy weekday, meal prepping, or entertaining guests at a brunch gathering, they’re sure to impress! Enjoy experimenting with different variations to make this recipe your own.
Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutes
- Spiral Ham: The base of the cups, providing a savory, slightly sweet, and crispy element. Substitute with turkey slices, Canadian bacon, or prosciutto.
- Eggs: The main component of the filling. You can use whole eggs, egg whites, or a combination of both for a lighter version.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and fluffiness to the eggs. Can be replaced with heavy cream for a richer texture or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk.
- Cheese: Cheddar gives a bold, sharp taste, but you can swap it with feta, mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, and green onions add freshness and nutrients. Feel free to use mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, kale, or zucchini.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika enhance the flavors. A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can be added for spice.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat for 30-40 seconds per cup.
- Oven: Warm at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 325°F for 4-5 minutes for a slightly crispy texture.
How to Serve Spiral Ham Brunch Cups
🥑 With Avocado Slices & Hot Sauce – A nutritious and flavorful combination.
🍞 On Toasted English Muffins – Transform them into mini breakfast sandwiches.
🥗 With a Fresh Side Salad – Balance the richness with some leafy greens and vinaigrette.
🧀 With Extra Cheese on Top – A sprinkle of Parmesan or crumbled feta adds even more depth.
☕ Alongside a Cup of Coffee or Fresh Juice – A classic breakfast pairing.
Expert Tips for the Best Brunch Cups
1️⃣ Use Thinly Sliced Ham: Thick slices may not mold well into the muffin tin, causing them to break or fold unevenly.
2️⃣ Whisk Eggs Well: Beating the eggs thoroughly with milk ensures a fluffy texture.
3️⃣ Avoid Overfilling: Leave some space in each cup to allow the eggs to rise without spilling over.
4️⃣ Make it Extra Crispy: Pre-bake the ham for 3-5 minutes before adding the egg mixture to make the edges crispier.
5️⃣ Let Them Cool Before Removing: This helps them hold their shape and prevents breaking.
Variations & Additions
🌶️ Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
🧄 Garlic & Herb Flavor: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives.
🧀 Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of cheeses such as Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
🥓 Meat Lovers: Add cooked bacon or crumbled sausage for extra protein.
🥦 Veggie Packed: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus for a nutrient boost.
Perfect Occasions for Spiral Ham Brunch Cups
✨ Weekend Brunch with Friends – Serve these with a variety of toppings and fresh juice.
🏃♀️ Quick Grab-and-Go Breakfast – Ideal for busy mornings when you need something filling.
🎉 Holiday Breakfast or Easter Brunch – A great way to use leftover ham from holiday meals.
🍱 Lunchbox-Friendly Option – Pack them in a lunchbox for a protein-rich midday snack.
🏋️ Post-Workout Protein Meal – High in protein and low in carbs, making them perfect for fitness lovers.
Conclusion
Spiral Ham Brunch Cups are a versatile, delicious, and nutritious breakfast option that anyone can enjoy. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven or enjoying them as leftovers, they bring a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Try different cheese and veggie combinations to keep things exciting!