Low-Carb Ham and Cheese Egg Bakes


 

Ingredients

  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup diced low-sodium ham
  • 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • Avocado oil spray or oil, for greasing the muffin tin

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ cup chopped fresh spinach
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Hot sauce or salsa
  • Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • Sliced or mashed avocado

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with avocado oil spray or lightly brush with oil.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or almond milk), garlic powder, and black pepper for 1–2 minutes, until smooth and slightly frothy.
  4. Divide the diced ham evenly among the muffin cups.
  5. Divide the grated cheese evenly over the ham.
  6. Pour the egg mixture into each muffin cup, filling each about ¾ full.
  7. Sprinkle the chopped chives over the tops.
  8. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the eggs are puffed, fully set in the center, and lightly golden around the edges.
  9. Let the egg bakes rest in the pan for 5 minutes before running a butter knife around the edges and removing them.
  10. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze cooled egg bakes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

  • Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
  • Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes.
  • Microwave: 30–45 seconds (convenient, though the texture will be slightly softer than oven reheating).

Tips

  • Freshly grate the cheese for the best melting and texture.
  • Don't overfill the muffin cups—the eggs will rise while baking.
  • Room-temperature eggs whisk more easily and produce fluffier egg bakes.
  • Add spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
  • For extra flavor, sprinkle a little paprika or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Fresh fruit
  • Sliced avocado
  • Salsa or hot sauce
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Toast or low-carb bread
  • A simple green salad for lunch

Yield: 12 egg bakes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
Oven Temperature: 375°F (190°C)