Are you tired of rushed mornings and boring breakfasts? Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s also quick and easy to prepare? Then look no further! These Sausage Egg and Cheese Muffins are the ultimate solution for busy weekdays or even a relaxing weekend brunch. These portable powerhouses are packed with flavor and protein, making them a fantastic healthy meal option for the whole family. They're incredibly versatile, perfect for meal prepping, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this easy recipe and elevate your breakfast game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or your preferred alternative)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional, for added veggies)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 muffin tin liners (silicone or paper)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until it's fully cooked and browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step ensures your muffins are not overly greasy.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder here enhances the flavor profile further.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the cooked sausage, cheese, and any optional vegetables (onion and bell pepper) to the egg mixture. Gently stir everything together until evenly distributed. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tins
Place the muffin liners in your muffin tin. Divide the sausage and egg mixture evenly among the liners, filling each about ¾ full.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and lightly golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them and placing them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they're ready to enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sausage Egg and Cheese Muffins:
- Don't overfill the muffin cups: Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion during baking.
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of the cheese really shines through in this recipe.
- Add some spice: A dash of hot sauce or your favorite chili powder can add a kick.
- Make it a meal prep staple: These muffins are perfect for meal prepping. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Variations:
- Veggie Lovers: Add your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta.
- Bacon Lovers: Substitute bacon for the sausage for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients used) Protein: Approximately 8-10g Fat: Approximately 10-15g Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
These Sausage Egg and Cheese Muffins are a fantastic addition to any breakfast repertoire. They’re easy, delicious, and perfect for busy mornings. Enjoy!