Delicious and Easy Breakfast Muffins: A Southern Delight
Start your day off right with these delicious and easy-to-make Breakfast Muffins. Packed with savory sausage, vibrant peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese, these muffins are perfect for busy mornings. They are freezer-friendly, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Bake a batch for your family today and enjoy the praises that follow.
Why You’ll Love These Breakfast Muffins
These Breakfast Muffins are not only tasty but also incredibly convenient. They can be made ahead of time and frozen for those hectic mornings when you need a quick and satisfying breakfast. The combination of sausage, peppers, and cheese provides a hearty and flavorful start to your day. Plus, they are versatile—you can customize them with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- Nonstick baking spray
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, see notes)
- 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional, see notes)
- 1 lb bulk pork sausage
- 1/2 finely chopped red bell pepper (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 1 can (7 ounces) green chiles, drained
- 2/3 cup very finely cubed cheddar cheese (see notes)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a standard 12-count muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the muffins.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Peppers
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat. Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan, remove from heat, and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture to the buttermilk mixture, stirring just until roughly combined.
Step 5: Incorporate the Sausage Mixture
Add the sausage mixture, drained green chiles, cubed cheddar cheese, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix just until all ingredients are combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Pan
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each just shy of the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the muffins in the preheated oven until they are golden brown and set, about 25-30 minutes. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Breakfast Muffins
- Use Quality Cheese: Opt for good quality sharp or smoked cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Other cheeses that work well in this recipe include pepper jack, Monterey Jack, gouda, mozzarella, and gruyere.
- Homemade Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, make your own by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using.
- Protein Variations: Try substituting the sausage with other proteins like ham or bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, spinach, potatoes, broccoli, or sweet potatoes to the batter for added nutrition and flavor.
- Preheat and Center: Always preheat your oven and place the muffin pan on the middle rack to ensure even baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Freeze These Muffins?
Yes, these muffins are freezer-friendly. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave them for about 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and consistency.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is recommended for its strong flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as pepper jack, Monterey Jack, gouda, mozzarella, or gruyere. Each will bring a unique taste to the muffins.
How Do I Store Leftover Muffins?
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Can I Make These Muffins Without Meat?
Yes, you can make these muffins vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables or a meat substitute like plant-based sausage or tofu.
Conclusion
These easy-to-make Breakfast Muffins are a fantastic way to start your day. With their savory combination of sausage, peppers, and cheese, they are sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for meal prep, these muffins can be made ahead and frozen, providing a quick and nutritious breakfast option for busy mornings. So, why not bake a batch today and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of homemade breakfast muffins? Your family will thank you!