Savory Sausage and Cheese Muffins

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • Begin by cooking the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the sausage apart into crumbles as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme (or oregano). Make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and melted butter until fully combined.
   • Add the cooked sausage to the wet mixture and stir gently to combine. Make sure the sausage is evenly distributed throughout.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Stir just until the flour is incorporated and no dry pockets remain. The batter will be thick.
   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the batter and fold it in gently.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
   • Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. This will give your muffins room to rise without overflowing.
6. Bake the Muffins:
   • Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • These savory sausage and cheese muffins are best served warm, but they also keep well for a few days if stored in an airtight container. They’re perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or even as a savory side dish with soup or salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, you can stir in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach into the batter. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture before adding them to the mix.
• Make It Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter.
• Make Ahead: These muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can bake them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory Sausage and Cheese Muffins are the perfect combination of fluffy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The rich, flavorful sausage complements the gooey cheese, while the light and tender texture of the muffins makes each bite a treat. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the day, from breakfast to a midday snack, and they’re filling enough to keep you satisfied for hours.

These muffins are a great way to enjoy the comforting flavors of sausage and cheese in a portable, easy-to-make form. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a snack for the kids, or just looking for something savory to start your day, these muffins will quickly become a family favorite!