Eggs in Crispy Hash Brown Baskets Recipe
Eggs in Crispy Hash Brown Baskets are a delightful and customizable breakfast or brunch recipe featuring crispy baked hash brown nests filled with perfectly cooked eggs. These golden potato baskets are easy to prepare, meal-prep friendly, and can be tailored with cheese, meats, veggies, or spices to suit any taste preference. They’re perfect for a quick morning meal or a tasty brunch spread.
- Author: Kai
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded hash browns (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- Diced cooked bacon or sausage
- Chopped spinach or bell peppers
- Diced avocado (add after baking)
- Paprika, onion powder, garlic powder for seasoning
- Prep the Hash Browns: If using frozen hash browns, thaw them completely and squeeze out excess moisture with paper towels or cheesecloth to ensure they crisp up well during baking.
- Season and Mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the hash browns with olive oil or melted butter, salt, pepper, and shredded cheese if using. Mix thoroughly to coat the hash browns evenly.
- Form the Baskets: Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with non-stick spray or oil. Spoon the hash brown mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down and up the sides to form a nest with a cavity in the center for the egg.
- Pre-Bake: Bake the formed hash brown baskets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Eggs: Carefully crack one egg into each basket, or add scrambled eggs if preferred. Season again with salt, pepper, and herbs as desired.
- Final Bake: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes depending on egg doneness preference. For runny yolks, check at 8 to 10 minutes; for firmer yolks, bake up to 13 minutes.
Notes
- Ensure hash browns are thoroughly dried to avoid sogginess.
- Pre-baking the baskets is crucial for crispiness and structure.
- Don’t overfill muffin cups to allow space for eggs and even cooking.
- Allow eggs to come to room temperature before adding to hot baskets to prevent uneven cooking.
- Grease muffin tins well to prevent sticking and maintain basket shape.
Keywords: hash brown baskets, baked eggs, breakfast recipe, brunch ideas, crispy potato nests, customizable breakfast, cheesy hash browns