Air Fryer Recipes Appetizer In My Kitchen Side Dish

Juicy and Fluffy Air Fryer Egg Bites

8 April 2024

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Air Fryer Egg Bites are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a protein-packed breakfast that is perfect for busy mornings or meal prep. Made in 10 minutes in the air fryer with just a few simple ingredients, egg bites turn out with a slightly crispy exterior, while fluffy and juicy on the inside.

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Making eggs in the air fryer has become a slight obsession of mine. Whether it’s Hard-boiled eggs, Poached, or Soft-boiled, the air fryer has become my go-to appliance for perfectly cooked eggs. The texture is just right, the yolk is never too runny or overcooked. And I love how the clean-up is a breeze. There’s no need for oil and the eggs cook quickly and evenly. I’ve even experimented with Omelette in the fryer, and it has turned out better than my stovetop version. For me, eggs in the air fryer are a game-changer.

What are Air Fryer Egg Bites?

These savory little bites are individual portions of baked eggs, mixed with your favorite veggies, meats, and cheeses. Cooked in either ramekins or silicone muffin cups. The real magic of cooking them in an air fryer is that they become perfectly fluffy and moist inside, without any oil or frying mess of traditional methods. Plus, because they’re pre-portioned, they make the perfect meal-prep option for busy weekday mornings.

Ingredients

Please refer to the recipe ingredients and nutrition information at the bottom of this post. Gather the following ingredients for these delightful egg bites:

You’ll need eggs, milk, cheese, cooked bacon or ham, salt and pepper to taste, and a pinch of garlic powder. I also love to add some finely chopped tomatoes or pickles, as well as some green onions, to make these bites even juicier. The air fryer gives them the perfect crispy texture on the outside, while the inside stays soft and fluffy.

Tip: Instead of milk, you can add heavy cream or half and half. Cream adds a richness and creaminess that can’t be beat. It adds texture, tastes more restaurant quality, and is better than Starbucks egg bites. Adding cream or half and half also ensures that the egg bites stay moist and fluffy, rather than becoming dry and rubbery.

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (165° C). While the air fryer is preheating, whisk together eggs and your choice of milk (dairy or non-dairy) in a bowl until well combined. Instead of a bowl, I use a 2-cup Glass Measuring cup. It allows me to whisk my eggs and pour the mixture seamlessly into my molds; without spilling eggs on the counter or struggling to pour!
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a hint of paprika.
Then stir in the cheese, cooked bacon or sausage (diced ham), salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture into lightly greased silicone muffin cups that fit inside your air fryer basket. I use 4-oz ceramic ramekins to cook my egg bites in AF. I prefer ramekins not only for a cute presentation but also to ensure that each egg bite cooks evenly and retains its shape. I love that the small size allows for easy customization with different mix-ins and toppings.

Make sure to spray each ramekin with oil spray. Fill each ramekin only about two-thirds full to allow room for the egg mixture to expand as it cooks.

process of cooking egg bites in ramekins in air fryer

Once the air fryer is heated, carefully place the ramekins (or muffin cups) into the air fryer basket. Cook the egg bites for about 8-10 minutes or until they are set and slightly golden on top. Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Check for Doneness: Your egg bites are done when they are set in the middle and slightly golden on top. This may require some experimentation with your air fryer and mold size, but with practice, you’ll know the perfect texture by sight. Once done, carefully remove the muffin cups from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts.
Remove Egg bite from Ramekin: Run a knife along the edge of the ramekin, making sure to loosen the egg bite from the sides. Then gently lift the egg bite with a spoon, using a careful and slow motion (picture 4 above). This method will help keep the egg bite from falling apart while also ensuring that you don’t accidentally burn yourself on the hot ramekin.
Serve this delicious air fryer egg bites warm with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a complete breakfast meal.

Variations and Add-Ins

Egg bites are like a blank canvas waiting for you to add your culinary masterpiece. Experiment with different mix-ins like diced vegetables, herbs, or different types of cheese to customize these air fryer egg bites to your liking.

For a veggie-packed version, stir in sautéed spinach, and Air fryer Mushrooms and Peppers into the egg mixture.

For a keto or low-carb diet, add cooked bacon bits and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for a protein-filled start to your day. Instead of bacon, you can use other meats like sausage crumbles or diced ham.

Sweet and Spicy: Believe it or not, sweet egg bites are a thing! Add a swirl of fruit jam into the egg mixture for a unique and satisfying breakfast treat. Or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

cheesy and fluffy egg bites, sliced open in the middle

What Cheese is Best for Egg Bites?

While many recipes call for shredded cheddar cheese, I love to experiment with other types like Swiss, Mozzarella, and Gruyere. The nutty and slightly sweet taste of Gruyere cheese adds a rich, savory flavor, and also provides a creamy texture that will melt in your mouth. It’s all about personal preference and taste. So, give them a try and see which cheesy combo satisfies your cravings. Trust me, breakfast has never tasted so good!

I also love adding 2 tablespoons of Cottage cheese or Ricotta cheese to the egg mix in this recipe. These cheeses take your homemade egg bites to the next level, surpassing the famous egg bites from Starbucks. These creamy and tender cheeses make your egg bites taste more delicious. They also make them fluffier and more filling. Plus, cottage cheese and ricotta cheese are excellent sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making your breakfast even more nutritious and satisfying. Give it a try and surprise yourself!

What’s the difference between Air fryer Egg Bites and Omelette or Frittata?

While both options are delicious and convenient breakfasts, the difference lies in their presentation and texture. Air fryer egg bites are small, handheld versions of an Air Fryer Frittata, with a creamy and custard-like texture. On the other hand, Air Fryer Omelette has a thinner and fluffier consistency, with a crispy outside and a warm and savory filling inside. The choice between air fryer egg bites and air fryer omelets comes down to personal preference and desired texture.

What else can I use besides ramekins to cook eggs in the air fryer?

You can use silicone muffin cups, tiny Mason jars, mini loaf pans, small ceramic dishes, or even a regular muffin tin. Each option can give a slightly different shape and size to your egg bites.

I prefer to use 4-oz ramekins or silicone muffin cups for my egg bites. They are both durable, so I don’t have to worry about them breaking or losing their shape. Making egg bites in a silicone muffin cup is an absolute piece of cake. Not only do your egg bites slide right out with ease, but clean-up is a breeze. A picture is below for reference. Just remember that both, the ramekin and silicone cups, need to be sprayed with oil before adding the egg mixture.

Be mindful that both ramekins and silicone cups get hot after cooking egg bites. Carefully remove the muffin cups from the air fryer using tongs, oven mitts, or lift the ramekin with the help of a flexible silicone spatula.

How to Store and Reheat

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. They are perfect for reheating in the microwave for a quick and easy breakfast throughout the week. Or reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to retain their original texture and flavor.

To freeze egg bites, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a labeled freezer bag. Use within two months. When ready to enjoy, remove from the freezer and reheat in the microwave or air fryer.

More Air Fryer Egg Recipes You’ll Love

Air Fryer Quiche, or Air Fryer Mini Quiche which is perfect for a quick, savory breakfast. Another great option is the Air Fryer Egg in a Toast, which is a unique take on the classic breakfast toast. And who doesn’t love a perfectly cooked Sunny Side up egg? With the Air Fryer Fried Egg, you can easily achieve that crispy, golden goodness that makes for the perfect breakfast.