Sausage & Cheese Muffins: The Perfect Grab-and-Go Breakfast

If you’re looking for a quick, savory breakfast solution that’s perfect for busy mornings, these Sausage & Cheese Muffins are the answer. Packed with flavorful sausage, eggs, and cheddar cheese, they’re easy-to-make, portable, and ideal for meal-prepping ahead of time. These muffins are delicious warm or at room temperature, so you can make a batch, store them, and have a satisfying breakfast or snack on the go all week long.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Ingredients (Makes 12 muffins)

1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
3 large eggs
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ¼ cup diced green onions for added flavor

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Muffin tin
Non-stick cooking spray or paper liners
Whisk and spoon for mixing

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray the muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or line with paper muffin liners to ensure easy removal of the muffins.
Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until fully browned and no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help ensure that the muffins rise evenly and have a light texture.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
Fold in the Sausage and Cheese
Gently fold the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions (if using) into the batter until evenly distributed.
Fill and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm, or store for later.

Optional Variations and Creative Additions

Add Some Heat: For a spicy twist, use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter.
Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or smoked Gouda for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. These veggies add color and make the muffins even more satisfying.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.

Serving Tips

Perfect Pairing: Serve these muffins with fresh fruit or a small yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast.
Easy Meal Prep: Make a double batch, freeze half, and enjoy a ready-made breakfast option for weeks to come. Simply reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Grab-and-Go: These muffins are excellent for eating on the run. Just grab one on your way out the door and enjoy a hearty, protein-rich breakfast.

FAQs for Best Preparation and Storage Practices

Q: Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
A: Yes, these muffins are perfect for meal prep. You can make them a day or two ahead, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat them as needed.

Q: How long do these muffins stay fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container, these muffins will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A: To reheat refrigerated muffins, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. If they’re frozen, microwave them for 45-60 seconds, or until warmed through.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked sausage crumbles work well in this recipe. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to mix evenly with the batter.

Q: Are there vegetarian options?
A: Yes! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more cheese and veggies to make them vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion: A Satisfying Breakfast Everyone Will Love

These Sausage & Cheese Muffins are the ultimate easy-to-make breakfast that combines the savory flavors of sausage and cheese with a fluffy, satisfying muffin base. Ideal for meal prep and perfect for a quick bite on busy mornings, this recipe will be a go-to for families who need a hearty breakfast without the fuss. So, whip up a batch and enjoy a warm, homemade breakfast all week long!