Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and what better way to start it than with ham and cheese breakfast pockets? These savory breakfast bites are easy to make and filled with delicious ham and cheese. The added kick of garlic butter and eggs make these pockets a wholesome and satisfying breakfast option.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and can be easily found in your local supermarket. However, you may need to be aware of the specific types of cheese and ham. For this recipe, cheddar cheese and regular ham slices are used. You can also opt for your preferred variants. Fresh chives are used for garnishing, they can typically be found in the fresh produce or herb section of your supermarket.
Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
White bread: The base of the breakfast pockets, it provides structure and balances the strong flavors of the cheese and ham.
Ham: Adds a savory, salty flavor to the pockets.
Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside the pockets, giving them a rich and cheesy flavor.
Unsalted butter: Used for brushing the pockets, adding a golden color and rich flavor.
Garlic: Gives the melted butter a fragrant and savory touch.
Eggs: They are cracked into the bread circles, adding a protein-packed component to the breakfast.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the breakfast pockets.
Pepper: Gives a mild heat to the breakfast pockets, balancing the salty ham and cheese.
Fresh chive: Adds a nice pop of color and a mild onion-like flavor when sprinkled over the finished pockets.
One reader, Gretta Dean says:
I recently tried the ham and cheese breakfast pockets recipe and it was a game-changer for my mornings! The combination of ham, cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs in a crispy bread pocket was simply delightful. It's a quick and delicious breakfast option that I'll be making again and again. Highly recommended!
Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Breakfast Pockets
How to assemble the breakfast pockets: Layer the ham and cheese between the flattened bread slices and seal the edges to create pockets.
How to brush with garlic butter: Mix the melted butter and garlic in a small bowl, then brush the pockets and reserved bread with the mixture before baking.
How to bake the pockets: Place the assembled pockets on a baking sheet and bake until toasted and golden brown.
How to bake the eggs: Crack the eggs into the reserved bread circles, season with salt and pepper, then bake until the yolks are cooked to preference.
How to serve: Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh chives before serving.
How To Make Ham And Cheese Breakfast Pockets
Wake up to a wonderful meal with these ham & cheese breakfast pockets made with garlic-brushed toasted bread. Served with baked eggs to complete the dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8sliceswhite bread
- 8slicesham,(cut into 2-inch) circles
- 4slicescheddar cheese,(cut into 2-inch) circles
- 2tbspunsalted butter,melted
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 4large eggs
- salt,to taste
- pepper,to taste
- fresh chive,for sprinkling
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
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Lay out the bread on a work surface and use a glass or a rolling pin to flatten.
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Place a circle of ham in the middle of 4 slices of bread. Top with one circle of cheddar and another slice of ham.
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Place the remaining slices of bread on top and, using the lid of a mason jar or a cookie cutter, press down to create 4 pockets. Make sure the seams are closed, pinching to seal if necessary. Reserve the bread with the circle cut-outs.
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Place the pockets on a baking sheet.
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In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and garlic. Brush the pockets with garlic butter.
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Bake for 15 minutes, or until toasted.
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Place the reserved bread on a baking sheet and brush with the remaining garlic butter.
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Crack 1 egg into each circle, and season with salt and pepper.
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Bake for 5 minutes, or until the yolk is cooked to preference.
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Serve the egg bread with the ham and cheese pockets and sprinkle with chives.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 485.97kcal
- Fat: 26.71g
- Saturated Fat: 12.74g
- Trans Fat: 0.60g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.48g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.89g
- Carbohydrates: 32.00g
- Fiber: 3.23g
- Sugar: 3.71g
- Protein: 28.74g
- Cholesterol: 261.75mg
- Sodium: 1187.20mg
- Calcium: 314.66mg
- Potassium: 369.38mg
- Iron: 3.60mg
- Vitamin A: 202.37µg
- Vitamin C: 2.82mg
Crucial Technique for Mastering Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
When creating your ham and cheese breakfast pockets, it's crucial to ensure the edges are sealed properly to prevent any filling from spilling out during baking. A good way to do this is by using the tines of a fork to crimp the edges together. This not only helps to seal the pockets, but also gives them a decorative edge. Additionally, when baking the eggs, keep a close eye on them as they can go from runny to fully cooked very quickly. If you prefer a runny yolk, it's better to undercook them slightly, as they will continue to cook from the residual heat even after being removed from the oven.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
Prep ahead: Prepare the ham and cheese pockets the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This way, you can simply pop them in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
Use pre-sliced ingredients: Opt for pre-sliced ham and cheese to save time on preparation. This eliminates the need for slicing and speeds up the assembly process.
Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of these breakfast pockets and freezing them for future use. This allows you to have a convenient breakfast option ready to go whenever you need it.
Opt for shortcuts: Utilize ready-made dough or pre-made pockets to cut down on prep time and streamline the cooking process.
Efficient assembly: Set up a workstation with all the ingredients and tools needed to assemble the pockets efficiently, saving time and minimizing clean-up.
Substitute Ingredients For Ham And Cheese Breakfast Pockets Recipe
ham - Substitute with turkey: Turkey is a lean and flavorful alternative to ham, providing a similar texture and taste in the breakfast pockets.
white bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread adds more fiber and nutrients to the breakfast pockets, making them a healthier option.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese has a mild, nutty flavor and melts well, making it a delicious alternative to cheddar in the breakfast pockets.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor and can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing the breakfast pockets.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique taste to the breakfast pockets.
eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be seasoned and scrambled to mimic the texture and flavor of eggs, offering a plant-based alternative in the breakfast pockets.
Presentation Tips for Breakfast Pockets
Elevate the dish with a stunning presentation: When plating the ham and cheese breakfast pockets, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use clean lines and carefully position the pockets to showcase the layers of ham and cheese. Consider adding a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Incorporate a touch of elegance with garnishes: Enhance the overall aesthetic by incorporating delicate microgreens or edible flowers as a garnish. These elements will add a sophisticated touch to the dish, elevating its visual appeal and demonstrating attention to detail.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant, minimalist ceramic plates or slate boards to present the ham and cheese breakfast pockets. The use of premium serving ware will convey a sense of refinement and sophistication, aligning with the standards of a Michelin-starred dining experience.
Focus on precision and symmetry: Pay close attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Ensure that the pockets are positioned with precision, and strive for symmetry in the arrangement. This meticulous approach will demonstrate a commitment to excellence in both presentation and execution.
Highlight the golden-brown crust: Showcase the beautiful golden-brown color of the toasted pockets by placing them on a contrasting backdrop. Consider using a dark-colored plate to accentuate the rich hues of the dish, creating a visually striking presentation that captures the attention of the diners.
Storing and Freezing Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
- Allow the ham and cheese breakfast pockets to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled pockets in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooled pockets:
- Wrap each pocket individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped pockets in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, labeling it with the date and contents.
- Frozen ham and cheese breakfast pockets will keep for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat refrigerated pockets, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- For frozen pockets, you can either:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above, or
- Reheat directly from frozen by placing them on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Note: The egg bread is best served fresh and does not store or freeze as well as the pockets. If you have leftover egg bread, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 1-2 days.
How To Reheat Leftover Breakfast Pockets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ham and cheese breakfast pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore the crispiness of the bread while ensuring the filling is hot and gooey.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the breakfast pockets on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave. Place the breakfast pockets on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer, less crispy texture.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the breakfast pockets in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the pockets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the breakfast pockets. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pockets in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. This method will give you a crispy exterior without the need for additional oil.
Interesting Trivia About Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
Ham and cheese breakfast pockets are a versatile and convenient meal option that can be easily customized to suit individual tastes.
Are Homemade Breakfast Pockets Cost-Effective?
This ham and cheese breakfast pockets recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for a family of four. The versatility of the recipe allows for variations based on available ingredients, reducing the overall cost. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10-$12, depending on the quality of the ingredients used. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Are Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets Healthy?
The ham and cheese breakfast pockets recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- White bread is used, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain bread
- Ham is processed meat, high in sodium and potentially containing nitrates
- Cheddar cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium
- Butter is used, adding more saturated fat to the dish
- The recipe is high in calories, with the bread, ham, cheese, and eggs all contributing significantly
However, there are some redeeming qualities:
- Eggs are a good source of protein and nutrients
- Chives add a small amount of vitamins and minerals
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap white bread for whole grain bread to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Use a leaner protein source, such as turkey or Canadian bacon, to reduce sodium and fat
- Opt for a lower-fat cheese, like part-skim mozzarella, or reduce the amount of cheese used
- Replace butter with a healthier fat, such as olive oil, or use less of it
- Include more vegetables in the recipe, such as spinach or tomatoes, to boost vitamin and mineral intake
- Serve the breakfast pockets with a side of fresh fruit to balance out the meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of the ham and cheese breakfast pockets while still satisfying your taste buds. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier substitutions, it's essential to keep portion sizes in check.
Editor's Opinion on Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
The ham and cheese breakfast pockets recipe is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish. The combination of savory ham, gooey cheddar cheese, and fluffy eggs encased in crispy bread pockets is a surefire way to start the day on a delicious note. The addition of garlic-infused butter adds a rich and aromatic flavor, while the fresh chives provide a pop of freshness. This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized with different fillings to suit individual preferences. Overall, it's a simple yet impressive dish that is perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick on-the-go breakfast.
Enhance Your Ham And Cheese Breakfast Pockets Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Ham and Cheese Breakfast Pockets
Why trust this Ham And Cheese Breakfast Pockets Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying breakfast experience. The combination of savory ham and rich cheddar cheese creates a delightful flavor profile. The use of garlic and butter adds a touch of indulgence, while the fresh chives bring a burst of freshness. The method of baking ensures a crispy and golden exterior, while the perfectly cooked eggs in the center provide a delightful surprise. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtful preparation to deliver a delightful breakfast experience.
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