These brunch charcuterie protein pan-tinis are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your morning! Packed with meats, cheeses, and veggies, they’re perfect for sharing with friends.
Who doesn’t love a good sandwich? I like to mix and match my favorite fillings for a tasty twist. Serve them warm and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
English Muffins: These provide a great base with a crisp texture. If you want something different, try bagels or mini croissants for a buttery flavor!
Eggs: I love sunny-side-up eggs for their runny yolk, but scrambled or poached eggs can work well too. Use egg substitutes if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon are good alternatives for a lighter or meat-free option.
Cured Meats: Prosciutto, salami, or pancetta are favorites, but feel free to mix it up! Hummus or roasted veggies can spice it up for a vegetarian take.
Cheese: Feta or goat cheese brings a tangy kick. If you prefer something milder, try mozzarella or cream cheese instead.
Fresh Berries: Mixed berries not only taste great but add vibrancy to the dish. If berries aren’t available, sliced peaches or apples can be delightful, too!
How Do I Get the Eggs Just Right?
Getting eggs cooked to perfection can be tricky, but here’s a simple method:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.
- Crack each egg gently into the pan and cover with a lid; this helps the whites cook without flipping.
- Cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- For a fun twist, consider adding shredded cheese on top just before the eggs finish cooking!
Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry if your first few eggs aren’t perfect; the flavor will still be delicious.
Brunch Charcuterie Protein Pan-Tinis
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 English muffins, split and toasted or pan-seared
- 4 large eggs, fried sunny-side-up
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
- 6 slices cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami, or pancetta)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
Fresh Elements:
- Fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or mint) for garnish
Optional Crunch:
- ¼ cup mixed nuts and seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds), toasted
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter for cooking
- Optional: honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious brunch spread can be prepared in about 20-30 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes toasting muffins, frying eggs, and assembling everything for a hearty meal that’s fun to share with friends or family.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Muffins:
Start by splitting the English muffins in half. Toast or pan-sear them in a skillet until golden brown and slightly crispy. This creates a perfect base for your toppings!
2. Cook the Eggs:
In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil or butter over medium heat. Carefully crack the eggs into the skillet and cook them sunny-side-up. Let the whites set while keeping the yolks runny. Season each egg with a pinch of salt and black pepper for flavor.
3. Crisp the Bacon:
In the same skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease until ready to assemble.
4. Assemble the Pan-Tinis:
On each toasted muffin half, sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled cheese (feta or goat cheese). Carefully place a sunny-side-up egg on top of the cheese.
5. Add the Meats:
Layer the cured meats and crispy bacon around the muffin halves on a large serving board or platter. Get creative with the layout for a pretty presentation!
6. Add Nuts and Berries:
Sprinkle toasted mixed nuts and seeds over the muffins and around the platter for added crunch. Then, arrange fresh berries among the pan-tinis for a vibrant touch.
7. Garnish and Drizzle:
Finish by adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley around the board for a fragrant garnish. If you like, drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze over the eggs or berries to enhance the flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while everything is warm! Encourage guests to mix and match their bites, combining the savory meats, creamy eggs, and sweet berries for a delightful brunch experience.
This delightful brunch charcuterie platter is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a protein-packed meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy brunching!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free English Muffins?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free English muffins can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to toast them until they are golden and crispy for the best texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave, but be sure to keep the eggs soft!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the components ahead of time. Cook the eggs and bacon, toast the muffins, and assemble everything just before serving for the best freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a cheese substitute, try using avocado for creaminess or a spreadable vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. Hummus can also be a great, flavorful alternative!