🍳 Savory Baked Egg Muffins — Veggie Egg Cups 🧀
Portable, protein-packed mini frittatas baked in a muffin tin — great for breakfast, meal prep, or snacks.
Introduction
Savory baked egg muffins are a quick, versatile breakfast or snack. Eggs are mixed with vegetables, cheese and seasonings, then baked in a muffin pan until puffed and golden. They reheat well and are perfect for busy mornings or packed lunches.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream) — optional for creamier texture
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (or mix of peppers)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or spinach, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing vegetables)
- Nonstick spray or extra butter to grease the muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat & prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6- or 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or butter.
- Sauté vegetables: In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced bell pepper and onion 3–4 minutes until softened. Let cool slightly.
- Whisk eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs with milk (if using), salt, and pepper until blended.
- Assemble: Divide the sautéed vegetables evenly among muffin cups. Add chopped parsley/spinach and a little shredded cheese in each cup. Pour egg mixture over the fillings, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if you like.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes (12-cup tin) or 18–22 minutes (6-cup tin) until eggs are set and tops are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool & serve: Let muffins cool 3–5 minutes in the tin, then run a knife around edges and remove. Serve warm or store.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave (30–60 sec) or oven (350°F, 8–10 min). Freeze individually wrapped for up to 2 months; reheat from frozen in oven or microwave.
Methods & Variations
- Meaty: Add cooked bacon, sausage crumbles, or diced ham.
- Veggie-packed: Fold in mushrooms, zucchini, tomatoes, or kale (lightly sauté first to remove water).
- Dairy-free / lighter: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Herby & spicy: Add chives, basil, or a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes.
- Creamier texture: Replace some milk with cream or a spoon of cream cheese in each cup.
- Low-carb crust: Press a thin layer of mashed cauliflower or almond flour mixture into the cup before adding eggs for a “crust.”
History & Context
Individual baked egg bites and mini frittatas are modern adaptations of traditional Italian frittatas and Spanish tortilla. The muffin-tin version became popular thanks to meal-prep trends and cafés offering portable breakfast options.
Benefits
- High in protein — helps keep you full longer.
- Customizable to fit dietary needs (vegetarian, low-carb, dairy-free).
- Excellent for meal prep — makes busy mornings easier.
- Easy way to add vegetables to the diet.
Formation & Presentation
Serve the egg muffins stacked on a platter or individually in small paper liners for a brunch spread. Garnish with chopped herbs and a sprinkle of extra cheddar. Pair with toast, salad, or fresh fruit.
Who Will Love This
- Busy professionals and students needing quick breakfasts.
- Parents packing school lunches.
- Anyone who enjoys savory, protein-rich snacks.
Tips for Success
- Do not overfill muffin cups — eggs expand slightly in the oven.
- If using watery vegetables (tomato, zucchini), sauté and drain them first so muffins don’t become soggy.
- Test one muffin for doneness before removing the whole batch to avoid undercooking.
Conclusion
Savory baked egg muffins are an easy, nutritious, and versatile recipe you can adapt any way you like. They’re ideal for breakfast on the go, meal prep, or sharing at brunch — try different fillings until you find your favorite combo.