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Air Fryer Spinach & Cheese Breakfast Muffins

Air Fryer Spinach & Cheese Breakfast Muffins – Easy, Protein-Packed Morning Bites

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
  • 1/3 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 packed cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (or 1/2 cup thawed, well-drained frozen spinach)
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion (yellow or red)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill), optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (for extra lift)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional, for a light kick)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (to sauté onion/garlic, optional)
  • Nonstick cooking spray or a touch of oil for the muffin cups
  • Silicone muffin cups or a silicone muffin tray that fits in your air fryer basket

Instructions
 

  • Prep the air fryer and cups: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly grease silicone muffin cups with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
  • Soften the aromatics (optional but tasty): In a small skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion with a drizzle of olive oil for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Let cool slightly.
  • Whisk the wet base: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, Greek yogurt, and milk until smooth. The yogurt adds tenderness and protein while keeping the muffins moist.
  • Add the seasonings: Whisk in salt, pepper, baking powder, and smoked paprika or chili flakes if using.
  • Fold in the fillings: Stir in chopped spinach, sautéed onion/garlic, shredded cheese, and herbs. Don’t overmix—just fold until evenly combined.
  • Fill the cups: Divide the mixture evenly among 8–10 silicone muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Place cups into the air fryer basket in a single layer with a little space between them.
  • Air fry: Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 10–13 minutes, or until the muffins are puffed and set in the center. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but no runny egg.
  • Rest and release: Let muffins rest in the cups for 2–3 minutes. This helps them firm up and release cleanly. Gently pop them out and cool on a rack if meal prepping.
  • Serve warm: Enjoy as-is or top with a dab of hot sauce, a spoon of salsa, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.