Sandwich Bread Baskets with Eggs and Ham: Tasty and Delicate!

Sometimes, the simplest ingredients come together to create something unexpectedly delicious. These Bread Baskets are a charming fusion of comfort and refined breakfast fare. First of all, they are crafted by pressing slices of soft bread into a muffin tin and filling them with layers of chopped ham, tender spinach, creamy béchamel, and a whole egg. Then, all you have to do is bake them into perfectly portioned delights.

This dish brings a thoughtful twist to morning meals or brunch spreads.

A Bite-Sized Classic with a Delicious Backstory

Bread baskets aren’t exactly new on the brunch scene and are similar to quiches and frittatas, and these particular baskets lean into European breakfast vibes. The béchamel sauce adds a smooth, creamy layer often found in French comfort food, while the ham-and-egg duo is pure brunch gold.

The earliest known bread-cup dishes date back to 18th-century England, where cooks would shape bread into “trencher bowls” to hold various fillings. They were practical, edible, and just fancy enough to impress visiting nobles.

Pro Tips for the Best Bread Baskets

• The bread presses in more neatly without the edges getting in the way. Crusts are rebels, and they don’t like to stay in shape.
• Use soft, fresh bread, because stale bread might crack when you press it into the muffin tray.
• Really press that bread into the muffin cups. The tighter it fits, the better it holds the filling without collapsing.
• If you want a bit more caramelization, sauté ham and spinach for a couple of minutes before assembling.
• Let them cool before removing. They firm up a bit after baking, making them easier to lift without tearing.

What If I Don’t Have Béchamel Sauce?

You can substitute with cream cheese, a bit of sour cream, or even just a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt mixed with seasoning. Béchamel gives richness, but the recipe is flexible enough for kitchen improvisation.

Can I Use Gluten-Free Bread?

Yes! Most gluten-free sandwich breads will work. Just make sure it’s soft enough to mold into the muffin tin without cracking apart. Toasted or dense gluten-free slices may need a quick steam to soften up.

What Size Muffin Tray Should I Use?

Standard muffin trays work best. If you’re using a jumbo muffin tray, you might need more filling and a longer bake time. Mini trays? Adorable, but you’ll need to trim the bread a bit more aggressively.

How Do I Know When They're Done?

The egg whites should be opaque and set, and the yolks can be either set or runny depending on preference. Bread edges should look golden brown and feel crisp to the touch.

How to Store Leftovers

You can store your leftover bread baskets for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, avoid microwaving if you want the bread to stay crisp—otherwise, sog city.

How to Make Bread Baskets with Eggs and Ham

Start by removing the crusts from your bread slices. One by one, press them gently into the muffin tin to form little cups. You want to push them all the way down and up the sides like edible cupcake liners.

First up, add in the chopped ham, then pour a tablespoon of béchamel over it. Next, place a few spinach leaves and carefully crack one egg into each bread basket. Try to center the yolk and not overflow the whites over the sides. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each one, but not too much, just enough to keep things melty and neat.

Slide the tray into a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) and bake for 15 minutes. Then, serve warm, maybe with a side of fresh salad or roasted tomatoes.