Next, in another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. I find that sifting really helps to aerate the flour, making for a fluffier muffin. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined; I like to see a few lumps rather than over-mixing, which can make the muffins tough. Then, gently stir in the cooked sausage and shredded cheese, along with any optional veggies you’ve decided to add – green onions add such a nice flavor and color!
Now, using a scoop or a spoon (this part can get a bit messy but I love it!), fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the batter. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. My kitchen fills with the most incredible aroma during this time; it’s one of my favorite moments when baking! Once they’re done, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few different ways to achieve the ideal muffin. If you prefer a more moist muffin, try adding a splash of sour cream to the batter; it makes a world of difference! I also recommend using a mix of cheeses; cheddar blends beautifully with pepper jack for a kick. Lastly, I’ve found that letting the muffins cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to meld and really shine.
Another trick I love is using a silicone muffin pan. I feel like it helps the muffins bake more evenly and pop out effortlessly. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! I also suggest that you allow your sausage to cool before mixing it with the eggs. This way, you won’t scramble the eggs with the hot meat. The last thing I want is dry eggs in my breakfast muffin!
One morning, I experimented by adding some leftover sautéed spinach to the mix, and I was delighted by the addition. It not only added nutrition but also a lovely pop of color. So don’t hesitate to experiment with what you have on hand – you might stumble upon your new favorite combination!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the batter is probably the most common mistake I see when it comes to these muffins. I learned the hard way that mixing it too much leads to dense rather than fluffy muffins. Remember, a few lumps are your friend! Also, don’t skimp on greasing your muffin tin, even if you’re using muffin liners. Trust me, it makes a real difference in the ease of removal.
Another issue can be not baking for long enough. I’ve pulled muffins out early, thinking they were done, only to find a gooey center. It’s best to use the toothpick test and add a few extra minutes if needed. My rule of thumb is to check at the minimum baking time, but don’t be shy about leaving them in a tad longer.
Lastly, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can affect how well they mix together and how the final texture turns out. So, if you have time, pull out those eggs and butter ahead of time for the best results. (See the next page below to continue…)