Air Fryer Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups

🧁 Air Fryer Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups

A quick, protein-packed breakfast made in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy mornings!

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✅ Ingredients (Makes 6 Cups)

• 6 slices of deli ham (thin but sturdy, like black forest or honey ham)

• 6 eggs (medium or large)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• Optional add-ins:

  • Diced bell pepper

  • Chopped spinach

  • Diced onion

  • Crumbled cooked bacon

  • Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)

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🛠 What You’ll Need

• Silicone muffin cups or a small muffin tin that fits in your air fryer

• Air fryer (basket or oven-style)

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🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat Air Fryer

   • Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.

2. Assemble the Cups

   • Place a slice of ham into each silicone muffin cup, pressing it in to form a cup shape.

   • Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese into the bottom of each ham cup.

   • (Optional) Add any chopped vegetables or cooked bacon bits at this stage.

3. Crack in the Eggs

   • Crack one egg into each ham cup. Try to keep yolk intact, or beat lightly if you prefer scrambled.

4. Season

   • Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and any herbs or seasoning you like.

5. Air Fry

   • Place the cups into the air fryer basket or tray.

   • Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on how set you want the yolk:

     • ⏱ 8 min: soft yolk

     • ⏱ 9–10 min: firmer yolk

6. Cool & Serve

   • Let cool for 1–2 minutes before removing from the cups. Serve warm!

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🍽 Serving Ideas

• Top with hot sauce, sriracha, or avocado slices.

• Serve with toast, fruit, or a smoothie for a full breakfast.

• Pack into lunchboxes for a high-protein snack.

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❓ Q&A: Air Fryer Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups

❓Can I use paper cupcake liners instead of silicone?

No. Paper liners will likely burn or stick. Use silicone or a greased air fryer-safe muffin tray.

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❓How do I prevent the egg from overflowing?

Make sure the ham slices are pressed well into the cups and that they reach the top edge. Use medium eggs if you’re short on space.

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❓Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes.

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❓Can I freeze these?

Yes, they freeze well. Freeze individually wrapped. Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F for 4–5 minutes from frozen.

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❓Can I scramble the eggs instead of using whole?

Definitely. Just beat the eggs in a bowl with seasoning, then pour into the ham cups. Cook time is the same or slightly less.

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❓Do I have to use cheese?

Nope! The cheese adds flavor and texture but can be skipped or replaced with a dairy-free alternative.

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❓What’s the best type of ham to use?

Use thinly sliced deli ham that’s not too flimsy or watery. Honey ham, smoked ham, or even turkey slices work well.