Egg Tortilla Baskets combine practicality with refined simplicity, transforming ordinary ingredients into appealing, flavorful individual portions. Each basket features a crisp tortilla shell filled with a mixture of eggs, ham, cheese, fresh vegetables, and herbs. This composition makes the dish suitable for a variety of settings, from elegant brunch spreads to casual weekday dinners.
The appeal of these baskets lies in their versatility. They can be adapted to suit dietary preferences or seasonal produce, while maintaining their signature combination of structure and taste.
What are Egg Tortilla Baskets?
Egg Tortilla Baskets are small, baked quiches made inside tortilla rounds shaped into muffin cups. The tortilla, traditionally a supporting component, is elevated to a functional and edible container, providing a subtle crunch that complements the creamy, cohesive filling. This approach highlights the potential of culinary innovations to enhance presentation in everyday cooking.
Pro Tips for the Best Egg Tortilla Baskets
- Brush or spray tortilla rounds lightly with oil before placing them in the tray and pre-bake for 4–6 minutes at 190°C (375°F). This prevents a soggy base and gives a golden edge.
- Cut tortillas into circles that sit snugly in the muffin tray. Press them gently so they form a nice cup and don’t stretch them too thin.
- Don’t overfill the tortilla cups because the eggs expand slightly while baking.
- Cheese texture matters. Grated mozzarella melts well, while the grated Parmesan adds savory nuttiness. For a tangier bite, swap half the mozzarella for cheddar.
- Eggs are done when the custard is set around the edges and only slightly wobbly in the center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of tortillas work best?
Medium-sized flour tortillas are the easiest to shape and toast evenly. Corn tortillas can be used, but are more prone to cracking, so you can warm them briefly to make them pliable.
Can I make these dairy-free or vegetarian?
Yes. For dairy-free, use a plant-based grated cheese and a splash of non-dairy cream or milk to help texture. For vegetarians, omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for umami.
Can I cook them in an air fryer?
Yes, just arrange the tortilla cups in a small air-fryer-safe tray or directly in the basket if they sit flat. Bake at 170°C (340°F) for about 8–12 minutes, checking frequently.
How to Store Egg Tortilla Baskets
You can refrigerate this dish for up to 3 days. Also, avoid the microwave if you care about crispness, as it makes the tortilla soft.
Ingredients
How to Make Egg Tortilla Baskets
Cut each tortilla into a circle that will fit the muffin cup.
Cut each tortilla into a circle that will fit the muffin cup.
Lightly oil a 6-cup muffin tray and gently press one tortilla circle into each muffin cup.
Lightly oil a 6-cup muffin tray and gently press one tortilla circle into each muffin cup.
Mix eggs, salt, pepper, chopped ham, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped tomatoes, yellow pepper, and parsley. Spoon the mixture into each prepped tortilla cup.
Mix eggs, salt, pepper, chopped ham, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped tomatoes, yellow pepper, and parsley. Spoon the mixture into each prepped tortilla cup.
Bake at 180°C (375°F) for 30 minutes. Let it rest for 2–3 minutes, then carefully unmold.
Bake at 180°C (375°F) for 30 minutes. Let it rest for 2–3 minutes, then carefully unmold.
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