Keto Bacon Egg and Cheese Bites: A Deliciously Easy Breakfast or Snack
Hey everyone! I'm so excited to share one of my absolute favorite keto-friendly recipes with you today: Keto Bacon Egg and Cheese Bites. These little morsels are packed with flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even a party appetizer. I often whip up a batch on Sunday to have on hand for busy weekday mornings. They're a lifesaver!
These bites are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite cheeses, veggies, or spices. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover bacon. Let's dive into the recipe!
Preparation time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20-25 minutes Servings: 12 bites Serving size: 1 bite
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a mix)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional, for creamier texture)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions, bell peppers, or other low-carb vegetables.
Equipment:
- Muffin tin (12 cup)
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet or baking sheet (for cooking bacon)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with silicone liners for easy removal.
- Cook the Bacon: If you haven’t already, cook your bacon until crispy. I prefer baking it on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, but you can also cook it in a skillet. Once cooked, crumble the bacon and set it aside.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. The cream adds a lovely richness, but it’s totally optional if you're watching calories closely.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. If you're using any vegetables, add them now as well. Gently stir everything together until evenly distributed.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the egg mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bites are set and lightly golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the egg bites cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before removing them. They can be served warm or cold.
Macro Breakdown (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 80-90
- Fat: 6-7g
- Protein: 5-6g
- Net Carbs: 1g
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Protein and healthy fats are key components of a ketogenic diet, and these bites are a fantastic dose of both. They also provide some calcium from the cheese.
Additional Tips and Variations:
- Add some zing: For a little heat, add a splash of spicy sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Gruyere, or feta.
- Veggie options: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, onions, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. Just be mindful of the carb count of any added vegetables.
- Make ahead: These bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Keto Notes:
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly due to its high fat and protein content and low carb count.
Nutritional Benefits:
Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, eggs are a nutrient-dense food. Bacon adds healthy fats and flavor. Cheese provides calcium and additional protein.
FAQ:
- Can I freeze these? Yes, you can freeze these egg bites. After they have cooled fully, wrap each one separately in plastic wrap and put it in a freezer bag. For up to two months, they can be kept in the freezer. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use liquid egg whites? It is possible to use liquid egg whites in place of entire eggs. However, the texture might be slightly different. You may need to adjust the baking time.
Conclusion:
I hope you enjoy these Keto Bacon Egg and Cheese Bites as much as I do! They're such a convenient and delicious way to stay on track with your keto goals. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make them your own. Happy cooking!