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Air Fryer Egg Muffin Cups - Easy, Protein-Packed Breakfast

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • Large eggs (8–10 for 12 muffin cups)
  • Milk or cream (2–4 tablespoons; dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
  • Cheese (1 cup shredded; cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or Swiss)
  • Vegetables (about 1.5 cups total, finely chopped): bell pepper, onion, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, broccoli
  • Protein add-ins (optional, about 1 cup cooked): bacon, sausage, ham, turkey, or plant-based alternatives
  • Seasonings: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (optional): chives, parsley, dill, or cilantro
  • Cooking spray or oil (for greasing silicone molds)
  • Silicone muffin cups or a silicone muffin tray that fits in your air fryer basket

Instructions

  • Prep the air fryer and cups: Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly grease silicone muffin cups with cooking spray or a thin brush of oil.
  • Cook heavier add-ins first: If using raw bacon, sausage, or mushrooms, cook them in a skillet until done and let them cool slightly. Drain off excess grease to prevent soggy muffins.
  • Chop veggies small: Finely dice onions, peppers, and other veggies so they cook quickly and evenly inside the cups. Squeeze out excess water from thawed spinach or juicy tomatoes.
  • Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk 8–10 eggs with 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if you like. Whisk until smooth but not frothy.
  • Layer the fillings: Divide cooked proteins and chopped veggies among the silicone cups, filling each about 1/3 full. Sprinkle a little cheese over the fillings.
  • Add the egg mixture: Pour the whisked eggs into each cup until about 3/4 full. Top with a pinch more cheese and any herbs or paprika.
  • Air fry: Place the cups in the air fryer basket without crowding. Cook at 330°F (165°C) for 9–12 minutes. Start checking at 8 minutes. The centers should be set and springy, with no visible liquid.
  • Rest briefly: Let the muffins sit in the cups for 2–3 minutes. They’ll finish setting and release more easily.
  • Serve: Pop them out and enjoy warm. Add hot sauce, salsa, or a dollop of Greek yogurt if you like.