Hash Brown Egg Nests Recipe

Made with just a handful of ingredients, hash brown egg nests are the perfect breakfast idea for mornings when you are looking for something hearty, delicious, and bursting with flavor. A family favorite that is known by many different names around the globe.

How do you make hash brown egg nests? You combine eggs, hash browns, shredded cheese, bacon bits, fresh parsley, and salt and pepper.

Depending on who you ask, moms might refer to this dish as eggs in a nest, Hollywood eggs, birds in a nest, or even eggs in a basket! Do you have a special term for this dish?

My favorite part about this recipe is that you can cook the egg as done as you’d like. If you like your eggs a bit runny, adjust the time in the oven accordingly.

Ingredients: 

• 15 ounces hash browns, thawed
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• salt and pepper
• 12 eggs
• 1/4 cup real bacon bits
• chopped fresh parsley, optional for serving

Directions: 

Preheat the oven to 425 and grease 12 regular-size muffin tin cups with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. 

In a bowl, combine hash browns, vegetable oil, 1 cup shredded cheese and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Fill each muffin cup with mixture and press firmly into the cup, creating a divot in the center. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and reduce temperature to 350. 

Crack one egg into each muffin cup and sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bacon bits. Season with salt and pepper. Return to oven, baking 13-19 minutes, depending on how done you like your egg. Mine was cooked for 13 minutes and had a soft yolk. Remove from oven and let stand for a few minutes. 

Run a knife around the edge of each cup before popping out and serving topped with chopped fresh parsley. 

This recipe makes 12 eggs in a basket.

Recipe Variations:

Hash Brown Egg Nests are quite versatile, and you can get creative with different variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Vegetarian Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach to the hash brown nests.
2. Bacon and Cheddar Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Mix crispy cooked bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese into the hash browns for a flavorful combination.
3. Mexican-Inspired Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Add a Southwestern flair by incorporating ingredients like diced tomatoes, black beans, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of Mexican cheese blend. Top with salsa and cilantro.
4. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • After baking, top the nests with smoked salmon and a dollop of cream cheese. Garnish with fresh dill for a luxurious twist.
5. Caprese Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Add cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil to the hash brown nests. Drizzle with balsamic glaze after baking for a Caprese-inspired flavor.
6. Greek-Style Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Incorporate ingredients like feta cheese, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and oregano for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
7. Sausage and Mushroom Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Brown some breakfast sausage and sauté mushrooms. Mix them into the hash browns before forming the nests.
8. Spinach and Feta Hash Brown Egg Nests:
   • Sauté fresh spinach and mix it with crumbled feta cheese. Add this mixture to the hash browns before baking.
9. Hash Brown Egg Nests with Avocado:
   • Top the baked nests with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a creamy and spicy kick.
10. Ham and Swiss Hash Brown Egg Nests:
    • Dice ham and mix it with shredded Swiss cheese. Incorporate this mixture into the hash browns before forming the nests.
11. Buffalo Chicken Hash Brown Egg Nests:
    • Toss shredded cooked chicken in buffalo sauce and mix it with the hash browns. Top with blue cheese crumbles after baking.
12. Mushroom and Truffle Oil Hash Brown Egg Nests:
    • Sauté mushrooms and add a touch of truffle oil to the hash brown nests for an elegant and aromatic twist.

Feel free to combine ingredients based on your preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors to create a hash brown egg nest that suits your taste buds!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that people might have about Hash Brown Egg Nests:

1. What ingredients do I need for Hash Brown Egg Nests?
   • Typically, you’ll need shredded hash browns, eggs, cheese, salt, pepper, and any additional toppings or seasonings of your choice.
2. Can I use frozen hash browns?
   • Yes, you can use frozen hash browns. Make sure to thaw them before using and squeeze out any excess moisture.
3. What type of cheese works best?
   • Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack are popular choices. However, you can use any cheese that melts well and complements the flavor.
4. How do I prevent the hash browns from sticking to the muffin tin?
   • Grease the muffin tin well with cooking spray or butter before pressing in the hash browns.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the hash brown nests ahead of time by par-baking the nests, and then finish cooking with the eggs when you’re ready to serve.
6. How do I get the eggs to cook perfectly?
   • Make a well in the center of each hash brown nest to hold the egg. Bake until the whites are set, but the yolks are still slightly runny for a perfect, creamy texture.
7. Can I customize the toppings?
   • Absolutely! You can add various toppings like cooked bacon, diced vegetables, herbs, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
9. What can I serve with Hash Brown Egg Nests?
   • They are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad, avocado slices, or even a dollop of sour cream.
10. Can I freeze Hash Brown Egg Nests?
    • It’s not recommended to freeze them after cooking, as the texture of the eggs may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Tips and Variations

• If you have medium or small-sized eggs, they will work better for this recipe. However, I used large ones, and everything came out just fine. However, opt for the smaller versions if you are shopping for ingredients.
• To reheat, bring eggs to room temperature and cook at 300 degrees for about 2-3 minutes in the air fryer. Perfection!
• Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for your preference. You could also add chopped garlic and onions to provide additional flavoring.
• You can also use pre-cooked bacon if you don’t want to use bacon bits. This will offer you a heartier bite.

Where can I serve hash brown egg nests?

Hash Brown Egg Nests are versatile and delicious dishes that can be served in various settings. Here are some occasions and places where you can serve them:

1. Brunch Gatherings: Hash Brown Egg Nests are perfect for brunch. They offer a unique twist on traditional breakfast items and are sure to impress your guests.
2. Holiday Breakfasts: Serve these nests during holiday breakfasts or brunches, such as Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving. They add a festive touch to the table.
3. Family Breakfasts: Make a batch for a cozy family breakfast. They are a fun and interactive way for everyone to enjoy a delicious morning meal together.
4. Potluck or Party Appetizers: Prepare mini hash brown nests for a potluck or party. They make excellent finger food; guests can grab a nest or two while mingling.
5. Bridal or Baby Showers: The elegant presentation of these nests makes them suitable for special occasions like bridal or baby showers. They can be a delightful addition to the menu.
6. Weekend Brunch at Home: These nests are a fantastic choice if you enjoy leisurely weekend brunches at home. They’re easy to make and can be customized to individual preferences.
7. Breakfast for Dinner: Switch up your dinner routine by serving Hash Brown Egg Nests. They bring a breakfast vibe to the evening and are a satisfying and comforting dinner option.

Remember that the versatility of Hash Brown Egg Nests allows them to be enjoyed in various settings, and you can customize them to suit the occasion or preferences of your guests.

Common Problems You Might Come Across While Making This Recipe

While making Hash Brown Egg Nests is relatively straightforward, there are some common issues that cooks might encounter. Here are a few potential problems and tips on how to overcome them:

1. Excess Moisture in Hash Browns:
   • Problem: If the shredded hash browns have too much moisture, the nests may not crisp up properly.
   • Solution: Thoroughly squeeze out excess water from the hash browns using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Sticking to Muffin Tin:
   • Problem: The nests sticking to the muffin tin can make them difficult to remove intact.
   • Solution: Ensure the muffin tin is well-greased with cooking spray or butter before pressing in the hash browns.
3. Overcooking or Undercooking Eggs:
   • Problem: Achieving the perfect balance of fully cooked whites and runny yolks can be challenging.
   • Solution: Keep an eye on the nests towards the end of the cooking time. You can cover them with foil if the hash browns are getting too brown before the eggs are cooked to your liking.
4. Eggs Overflowing:
   • Problem: If the well in the hash brown nest is too small, the eggs may overflow during baking.
   • Solution: Make a deeper well in the center of each nest to accommodate the eggs without spilling over.
5. Soggy Bottoms:
   • Problem: The bottom of the nests can become soggy if the hash browns are not cooked through or if excess moisture is not removed.
   • Solution: Ensure the nests are pressed firmly into the muffin tin, and bake them until they are golden brown and crisp.
6. Uneven Cooking:
   • Problem: If the hash browns are unevenly distributed in the muffin tin, some nests may cook faster than others.
   • Solution: Take care to distribute the hash browns evenly to ensure consistent cooking. You can also rotate the muffin tin during baking for more even results.
7. Difficulty Removing Nests:
   • Problem: Nests might stick to the muffin tin, making them challenging to remove without breaking.
   • Solution: Run a butter knife or a small spatula around the edges of each nest before gently lifting them out.
8. Seasoning Issues:
   • Problem: Forgetting to season the hash browns adequately can result in a bland final dish.
   • Solution: Don’t forget to season the hash browns with salt and pepper before forming the nests. You can also add other seasonings or herbs to enhance flavor.

By addressing these common issues, you can improve the overall outcome of your Hash Brown Egg Nests and ensure a delicious and visually appealing dish.

This breakfast idea is easier than you think. Pack hash browns into a muffin tin and top with egg, cheese, and bacon. Then cook through! Your crispy nests will be the perfect morning pick-me-up for everyone in your family. Consider making this dish for brunch, a special holiday, or a simple morning treat.

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