Are you ready to revolutionize your breakfast game? Look no further than these delicious Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups! This easy breakfast recipe combines all your favorite morning flavors into delightful little cups that are both satisfying and convenient. Perfect for hectic weekdays or leisurely brunches, these cups allow you to enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of intricate cooking methods. Picture this: crispy hash brown crusts, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, all baked into perfect little servings. It is the ultimate start to your day!

Not only do these Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups bring incredible taste to your mornings, but they also offer flexibility for various dietary preferences. Whether you are a meat lover, a health-conscious eater, or someone trying to accommodate family members with dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily modified. Easily scale it up for gatherings or make it a meal-prep staple to enjoy throughout the week. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be ready to impress your guests or kick-start your day.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings, these cups take minimal effort to prepare.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe to fit your dietary needs with various proteins or cheese alternatives.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for easy breakfasts on the go.
Full of Flavor: Enjoy the combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and gooey cheese in every bite.
Kid-Friendly: A fun, bite-sized breakfast that appeals to both kids and adults!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to set your kitchen up for success! Begin by gathering your ingredients and tools. You will need: a muffin tin, mixing bowls, a whisk, a skillet, and measuring cups and spoons. Make sure to coat the muffin tin well with cooking spray to prevent the hash browns from sticking.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the ingredients. This will ensure that your Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups cook evenly. Additionally, as you work with the hash browns, be mindful of their moisture content by blotting them lightly if they seem too wet—this will prevent sogginess. Having everything ready before you start cooking will streamline the process, allowing you to enjoy your breakfast cups in no time.

Ingredients

20 oz refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes (e.g., Simply Potatoes or Reser’s, defrosted if frozen)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ teaspoons salt, plus a pinch for the eggs
Black pepper, to taste
4 chicken breakfast sausage links (e.g., Wegmans Fully Cooked Breakfast with Sage Chicken Sausage)
6 large eggs
4 egg whites
6 tablespoons shredded 2% cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Cups

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spraying a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to keep your breakfast cups from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash browns with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure each potato strand is evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Scoop the seasoned hash brown mixture into each muffin cup, pressing it firmly down and along the sides to create little wells. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

While the hash browns are baking, slice the breakfast sausage links into small, bite-sized pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and mist it with cooking spray. Add the sausage pieces to the skillet, cooking them until they are browned and crispy, which adds depth to the final flavor. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set aside to allow the sausage to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In another large bowl, crack in your 6 eggs along with the 4 egg whites. Add a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of black pepper to taste. Whisk them together until thoroughly combined and the mixture appears slightly frothy. This ensures a fluffy texture when baked. The egg mixture will bind all the components together, creating that sought-after cup experience.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Now for the fun part—assembly! Carefully distribute the cooked sausage pieces equally into each of your hash brown cups. Follow this by adding a generous tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage. Finally, spoon the egg mixture over each cup, filling them up just until the mixture reaches the top. Slide the muffin tin back into the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; your Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups are ready when the eggs have set and the tops have a nice golden hue.

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option, or opt for vegetarian sausage to make it meat-free.
Vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with various spices such as paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the hash brown mixture is pressed tightly into the muffin tin for sturdier cups.
If using frozen hash browns, allow them to thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for a kick!
Pair with fresh seasonal fruit for a refreshing side.

Tips

For a make-ahead option, prepare the cups the night before and simply reheat in the morning.
Use silicone muffin cups for easy removal and an eco-friendly option.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 220 per cup
Protein: 15 grams
Sodium: 560 mg

FAQs

Can I freeze the Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups?

Yes! Once cooled, these cups can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.

What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use egg substitutes such as flax eggs or chia seeds mixed with water for a vegan-friendly option.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Ensure that your hash browns and sausage are gluten-free. Most pre-packaged varieties are, but always check the labels!

How long do these cups last in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Cups are the perfect breakfast solution for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal to kick off their day. With their appealing flavors and endless customizability, they are bound to become a breakfast staple in your home. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or reheated later for a quick meal, every bite is sure to bring joy. Don’t forget to leave your comments below about your experiences with this recipe or any variations you tried. Happy cooking, and enjoy your mornings!