Mexican Egg Nests

Hash browns, cheese, taco seasoning and eggs are combined in these Mexican-Style Eggs in a Nest for an easy breakfast, perfect for entertaining!

Individual ramekins with Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest

This post has been sponsored by The American Egg Board

Savor the Morning: Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest

There’s nothing quite like a delicious and hearty breakfast to kickstart your day, and for many, eggs are the undisputed star of the morning meal. Our family absolutely adores eggs, prepared in just about every imaginable way – from classic boiled and scrambled to more adventurous takes like an Egg Salad Sandwich or even nestled atop a savory burger. The versatility and sheer deliciousness of eggs make them a constant favorite in our kitchen.

It’s with great excitement that I announce my partnership with The American Egg Board this coming year, dedicated to supporting The Good Egg Project and exploring all things eggs! What better way to launch this collaboration than by celebrating World Egg Day? Indeed, today marks a global appreciation for one of the most incredible foods nature provides. It’s a day to spotlight the humble egg and its extraordinary contributions to our diets and communities.

The Incredible Power of Eggs: More Than Just a Breakfast Staple

Eggs are often hailed as a “power food” for good reason. They are celebrated as one of the highest quality proteins available, delivering all nine essential amino acids our bodies need for growth, repair, and optimal performance. This complete protein profile is why eggs are a favorite among athletes and health enthusiasts alike. But the benefits don’t stop there. Incorporating high-quality protein into your diet can significantly contribute to weight management by promoting satiety, keeping you feeling fuller for longer, and reducing overall calorie intake. Eggs also provide a sustained energy boost, helping you power through your day without the crashes associated with sugary breakfasts.

Beyond protein, eggs are a nutritional powerhouse packed with vital vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of Vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function, and Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation. Eggs also contain choline, which plays a key role in brain health and memory, and powerful antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to help prevent macular degeneration, a leading cause of age-related blindness. With so many health advantages, eggs truly are a fantastic addition to any diet.

Moreover, eggs are incredibly convenient and affordable. At just around $0.15 each, they offer exceptional value, making them a budget-friendly option for quick, nourishing meals. When we’re looking for something fast, cheap, and satisfying, eggs are always our first choice. Their ease of preparation, from a quick scramble to an elaborate frittata, makes them ideal for busy weekdays and leisurely weekends alike.

Supporting Communities with The Good Egg Project

America’s egg farmers are not just about delicious, nutritious food; they are also deeply committed to giving back to their communities. Through The Good Egg Project, they work to educate the public about the journey of eggs from farm to table and actively participate in the fight against childhood hunger. This initiative highlights the dedication of farmers to sustainable practices and community welfare, reinforcing the positive impact of the egg industry. To learn more about their incredible work and how they’re making a difference, I encourage you to visit incredibleegg.org.

A Family Affair: Our Egg Love Stories

It’s hard to say who in our family loves eggs the most. My four-year-old, Abbi, is a true boiled egg aficionado. I’ve never seen a child devour them with such gusto; she’ll often request them as a meal and easily eat four in one sitting, with nothing else. During my college years, scrambled eggs, tortillas, and salsa were my culinary lifeline. And when I got married, my husband introduced me to the simple yet profound joy of a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg. Each family member has their unique connection to this versatile ingredient, making egg dishes a beloved tradition in our home.

Celebrating World Egg Day with a Mexican Flair

Given that it’s World Egg Day, what better way to celebrate than with a globally-inspired egg dish? My personal favorite has always been baked eggs. There’s something undeniably comforting and elegant about them. This particular recipe, Mexican-Style Eggs in a Nest, encapsulates everything I love about baked eggs, infused with vibrant flavors. These eggs are lovingly baked in a savory “nest” crafted from crispy hash browns, rich cheese, and a punchy taco seasoning blend. It’s truly one of the easiest meals to prepare, even on the most hectic of mornings. Moreover, its impressive presentation and minimal hands-on time make it an absolutely perfect dish for entertaining guests. Simply assemble, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It really doesn’t get much simpler, or more delicious.

overhead view of Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest

Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest

Individual ramekins with Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: Mexican

Hash browns, cheese, taco seasoning and eggs are combined in these Mexican-Style Eggs in a Nest for an easy breakfast, perfect for entertaining!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • 4 eggs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease four 1-cup ramekins or custard cups.
  2. In a bowl, combine the thawed hash browns and shredded cheese. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture and toss until well combined. Divide the hash brown mixture evenly among the four prepared ramekins. Press the mixture firmly against the bottoms and halfway up the sides of each cup to form a nest.
  3. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to allow the hash brown nests to firm up and become slightly crispy.
  4. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Break one egg and gently slide it into the center of each partially cooked hash brown and cheese nest. Repeat with the remaining eggs and cups.
  5. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set and the yolks are thickened but still runny (or cooked to your desired doneness).
  6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes:

  • This recipe is slightly adapted from incredibleegg.org.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest & Creative Variations

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest, a few simple tips can make all the difference. When using frozen hash browns, ensure they are fully thawed and, crucially, squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is vital for ensuring your potato nests crisp up nicely in the oven instead of becoming soggy. For the cheese, while cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or a Mexican blend for an authentic flavor profile. The taco seasoning is the heart of this dish’s Mexican essence; feel free to adjust the amount to your spice preference, or even make your own homemade blend for maximum freshness.

Achieving your preferred egg doneness is key. For perfectly runny yolks, bake for less time, keeping a close eye on the whites to ensure they are set. If you prefer a firmer yolk, extend the baking time slightly. Don’t be afraid to pull them out a minute or two early if you like a truly runny yolk, as they will continue to cook a little in the hot ramekins.

The beauty of this dish also lies in its adaptability. Elevate your “nests” with a variety of serving suggestions: a dollop of fresh salsa, slices of creamy avocado, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside refried beans or warm tortillas.

Want to personalize it further? This recipe is incredibly versatile for additions. Incorporate cooked and crumbled chorizo or sausage into the hash brown mixture for a protein boost. For added texture and nutrients, finely diced bell peppers, onions, or even some black beans or corn can be mixed in with the hash browns before baking. These variations allow you to tailor the dish to specific tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a truly flexible and exciting breakfast option.

An Ideal Dish for Entertaining

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family brunch or a lively gathering with friends, these Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest are an absolute showstopper. Their individual portion size makes serving a breeze, and the impressive presentation is sure to delight your guests. The minimal hands-on time means you can enjoy your company instead of being stuck in the kitchen, as the oven does most of the work. It’s a dish that feels special and indulgent, yet requires very little effort, striking the perfect balance for a memorable entertaining experience. Plus, you can easily scale the recipe up to accommodate more guests, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Fuel Your Day, The Egg-cellent Way!

From a quick weekday breakfast to an impressive weekend brunch, eggs are a fantastic, versatile, and incredibly nutritious choice for any meal. These Mexican Style Eggs in a Nest exemplify how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious and satisfying. We hope you’ll give this recipe a try and discover the joy of this flavorful, easy-to-make dish. Beyond the plate, remember the good work of The American Egg Board and their commitment to health and community through The Good Egg Project. Eggs aren’t just food; they’re a foundation for a healthier, more vibrant life.

I am in a working relationship with the National Egg Board, and this post has been sponsored. I’m so glad to be able to work with companies and organizations that I truly believe in. Thank you for supporting them, too.