A Hearty, Handheld Breakfast Favorite

Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day—and for good reason. A well-balanced, protein-packed breakfast helps fuel your body and brain, setting the tone for a productive, energized morning. If you’re looking for a make-ahead, grab-and-go option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, look no further than these Sausage Muffins. Bursting with savory goodness, they’re the perfect combination of fluffy, cheesy muffin and satisfying sausage bite.

Whether you’re a busy parent trying to feed your family before the school rush, a student looking for a portable meal between classes, or a weekend brunch host in need of a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is for you. These sausage muffins are a meal prep dream—easy to whip up, freezer-friendly, and loved by both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sausage muffins are more than just a novelty—they’re a versatile and delicious addition to any mealtime routine. Made with basic pantry staples and a pound of hearty ground breakfast sausage, they deliver bold, comforting flavors in every bite. The muffins are moist and tender thanks to a combination of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and just the right amount of oil and egg for binding.

The spices—garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt—enhance the savory profile without overpowering the star ingredients. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated the next day, these muffins retain their soft texture and rich taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg

These ingredients are easy to find, affordable, and leave room for variations if you’re feeling adventurous.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these sausage muffins, you’ll need:

• A large skillet
• Mixing bowls (at least 2)
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Muffin tin (12-cup standard size)
• Paper muffin liners or nonstick spray
• Wire rack for cooling
• Toothpick (for doneness check)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Either grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners for easy cleanup.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set it aside to cool slightly—this helps prevent the heat from affecting the texture of your batter.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

4. Add Cheese and Sausage

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooled sausage until the mixture is evenly distributed. This step ensures each muffin has a good mix of savory ingredients.

5. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg.

6. Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so stop as soon as there are no visible streaks of flour.

7. Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups—each should be about 3/4 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or let them cool completely for storing.

Tips and Shortcuts

• Pre-cooked Sausage: Save time by using pre-cooked sausage crumbles available in most grocery stores.
• Mix It Up: Swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend for a different flavor twist.
• Add Veggies: Dice up bell peppers, spinach, or onions for extra nutrients and color.
• Make It Spicy: Use hot breakfast sausage or add red pepper flakes to the dry ingredients.
• Mini Muffins: Make bite-sized versions by using a mini muffin tin and adjusting bake time to about 12–14 minutes.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

To Reheat:

• Microwave individual muffins for 30–45 seconds from the fridge or about 1 minute from frozen.
• Alternatively, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10–12 minutes.

These muffins reheat beautifully and are perfect for busy weekday mornings.

Food and Drink Pairings

• Beverages: Pair with a cup of strong coffee, a glass of orange juice, or a chai latte for a balanced breakfast.
• Side Ideas: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, a green smoothie, or a small bowl of yogurt and granola.
• Brunch Bonus: Plate these with a simple salad or scrambled eggs for an easy brunch menu.

FAQs About Sausage Muffins

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that includes xanthan gum. Check your sausage ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I use turkey or plant-based sausage instead?

Yes. Ground turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or your favorite plant-based sausage can be used with excellent results. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before mixing into the batter.

Do these muffins taste good cold?

They’re best enjoyed warm, but they’re still tasty at room temperature—ideal for on-the-go meals or packed lunches.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe doubles easily. Bake in batches or use multiple muffin tins if available.

Can I add eggs to the batter for more protein?

You could add an additional egg, but be careful not to throw off the texture. A better alternative is serving with a boiled egg or a protein-rich smoothie on the side.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in search of a no-fuss, high-protein, and flavor-packed breakfast idea, these Sausage Muffins are an absolute must-try. Their simplicity, customizability, and reheating ease make them a staple you’ll come back to again and again. Whether prepping for a busy week, hosting a brunch, or just indulging in something hearty, this recipe delivers.

Love this recipe?
Share it with your friends, pin it to your breakfast boards, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious, practical recipes made for real life. Happy baking! 🧁🔥