Savory Sausage and Cheese Muffins

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## **Instructions:**

### 1. **Cook the Sausage**
– In a skillet over medium heat, cook the **sausage**, breaking it into crumbles as it browns.
– Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly.

### 2. **Preheat & Prepare**
– Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
– Grease or line a **12-cup muffin tin** with paper liners.

### 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**
– In a large bowl, whisk together the **flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder**.

### 4. **Add the Wet Ingredients**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the **eggs, milk, and melted butter**.
– Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined.

### 5. **Fold in the Sausage & Cheese**
– Add the **cooked sausage and shredded cheese** to the batter, folding gently until evenly distributed.

### 6. **Fill the Muffin Cups**
– Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about **¾ full**.

### 7. **Bake**
– Place the muffins in the preheated oven and bake for **18-22 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

### 8. **Cool & Enjoy!**
– Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
– Serve warm or at room temperature.

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## **Serving Suggestions**

🥓 Pair with crispy bacon and eggs for a **hearty breakfast**.
🥗 Serve alongside a fresh salad for a **savory brunch**.
🥣 Enjoy with a bowl of soup for a **comforting meal**.

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## **Storage & Reheating Tips**

🧊 **Refrigerate**: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to **5 days**.
❄️ **Freeze**: Wrap muffins individually and freeze for up to **3 months**.
🔥 **Reheat**: Warm in the microwave for **30 seconds**, or in the oven at **350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes**.

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## **Custom Variations**

🧀 **Cheesy Twist**: Try using **pepper jack, Swiss, or gouda** for a new flavor.
🌶 **Spicy Kick**: Add **diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne** for extra heat.
🌿 **Herby Goodness**: Mix in **chopped chives, parsley, or basil** for fresh flavor.
🥦 **Veggie-Loaded**: Add **grated zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers** for a healthier twist.

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## **Final Thoughts**

These **Savory Sausage and Cheese Muffins** are the perfect combination of hearty, cheesy, and delicious. Whether you need a quick breakfast, an easy snack, or a dish to impress at brunch, these muffins will do the trick. With their rich flavors and endless customization options, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat.

Give them a try, and let me know what variations you love best! Happy baking! 🧁🧀🥓