Step 1 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Spray a 12-cavity muffin pan with canola oil cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 3 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Place the hash brown potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Using a doubled sheet of paper towels, press as much water out of the potatoes as possible. Once the potatoes are thoroughly dry, season with the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix with a rubber spatula to combine.
Step 4 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Divide the potatoes evenly among the 12 cavities of the muffin pan. Use clean hands to press the potatoes firmly into the bottoms and sides of the cavities, creating the “cups.”
Step 5 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Spray the hash brown cups liberally with canola oil cooking spray.
Step 6 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Bake the hash brown cups on middle rack of oven until they are golden brown and firm, 27-30 minutes. During the last five minutes of baking, prepare the eggs.
Step 7 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk until smooth.
Step 8 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Set a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter, swirling it as it melts to coat the bottom of the pan. Pour the eggs into the pan and cook, folding with a rubber spatula, until they are softly scrambled, 2-3 minutes. Take care not to overcook the eggs. Remove skillet from the heat, and season eggs with salt and black pepper.
Step 9 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Remove the hash brown cups from the oven. Divide the scrambled eggs evenly among the 12 cups. Sprinkle the eggs with cooked bacon, if using. Top each potato and egg cup with a generous spoonful of shredded cheese.
Step 10 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Return the hash brown cups to middle rack of oven and bake until cheese is fully melted, 3-5 minutes.
Step 11 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Check to see that hash brown cups are done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
Step 12 of 12
Baked Hash Brown Cups with Eggs
Use the tip of a knife to release each potato cup from the pan, and transfer to serving plates. Sprinkle each with a small amount of chives, and serve.