Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 190°C. Thoroughly grease a 6-cup muffin tin with olive oil, making sure to coat the sides well to prevent sticking. The oil creates a barrier that makes removal easier after baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Par-cook your bacon slices by microwaving them for about 1 minute or until they're just beginning to render fat but remain pliable. This partial cooking ensures the bacon will crisp perfectly in the oven without burning, while still being flexible enough to mold.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Blanch the asparagus spears by placing them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until bright green, then immediately transfer to ice water. This quick cooking technique preserves their color and ensures they'll be perfectly tender after baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Take two bacon slices per muffin cup and arrange them in a cross pattern over each cup, allowing the ends to hang over the edges. Press gently into the cups to create a bacon "nest" - this forms the structure that will hold your eggs.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Place 3 blanched asparagus spears in each bacon-lined cup, arranging them so the tips extend slightly above the edges for an attractive presentation. The asparagus adds structure while infusing the eggs with flavor.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Carefully crack an egg into each cup, being cautious not to break the yolk. If you're concerned about shell fragments, crack each egg into a small bowl first before transferring to the muffin cup.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Sprinkle each cup with grated cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The cheese will create a golden, flavorful crust while the seasonings infuse throughout the egg as it bakes.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on how set you prefer your yolks. For runny yolks, aim for 15 minutes; for fully set yolks, bake for the full 20 minutes. The egg whites should be completely opaque and the bacon should be crisp and caramelized.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Allow the egg cups to cool in the tin for 5 minutes – this resting period helps them set and makes removal easier. Carefully run a knife around each cup to loosen, then use a spoon to gently lift each egg cup out.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Garnish with chopped fresh chives and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color and flavor. Serve warm, either on their own or with a side of avocado for an extra keto-friendly touch.</li></ol>