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These sausage egg and cheese breakfast muffins with grits bring together savory, hearty flavors in a convenient handheld form. Perfect for rushed mornings or brunches with friends, they offer a satisfying balance of fluffy eggs, creamy grits, and melty cheddar paired with savory turkey sausage. You can make a batch ahead and enjoy them throughout the week or serve fresh for a cozy weekend treat.
I first made these muffins when I wanted a portable alternative to breakfast plates. Now they are a staple when I’m feeding a crowd or need a quick grab-and-go option.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey sausage: lean and flavorful protein to keep you full
- Flour: for the muffin base, use all-purpose for best texture
- Quick cooking grits: gives the muffins a creamy, slightly gritty texture that nods to southern traditions
- Baking powder and baking soda: crucial for rising and a nice light crumb
- Salt: enhances all the flavors
- Melted butter: adds richness and moisture
- Eggs: bind the ingredients and add protein
- Buttermilk: tenderizes the muffins and adds a subtle tang
- Honey: natural sweetness balancing the savory notes
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melty and sharp for flavor contrast
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F or 200°C and generously grease a muffin tin. This ensures your muffins release easily after baking.
- Cook the Sausage:
- Place the ground turkey sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until it is browned and crumbled, then drain off any excess fat. Browning the meat fully builds rich flavor in the muffins.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, quick cooking grits, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This creates a well-mixed base for even rising.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, stir together the melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, and honey until smooth and fully combined. This liquid mixture will hydrate the dry ingredients.
- Bring It Together:
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir just enough to combine without overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
- Add Sausage and Cheese:
- Fold the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar into the batter carefully so they distribute evenly without deflating the mixture.
- Fill Muffin Cups:
- Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full to leave room for rising.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place the tin in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into a muffin. It should come out clean when ready.
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I love how the quick cooking grits give these muffins a special texture that stands out from regular breakfast muffins. They remind me of weekend family breakfasts where everyone gathers around eating warm, cheesy bites.
Storage Tips
Let muffins cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months. Reheat gently in the microwave or toaster oven before eating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground pork sausage can replace turkey sausage if you prefer a richer meat flavor. Non-dairy milk with a splash of vinegar can stand in for buttermilk. Sharp or smoked cheddar cheese offer different flavor profiles you can experiment with.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these muffins with fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced breakfast or brunch. They also work well with a drizzle of hot sauce or a side of fresh salsa for a bit of kick.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of sausage works best in these muffins?
Ground turkey sausage is recommended for a leaner, mild flavor, but ground pork sausage can be used for a richer taste and firmer texture.
- → Can I substitute quick cooking grits?
Yes, you can replace quick cooking grits with polenta or cornmeal, though the texture and baking time may vary slightly.
- → How can I store leftover muffins?
Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days.
- → Is it possible to prepare the batter ahead?
The batter can be mixed in advance and refrigerated overnight, but fresh baking leads to better rise and texture.
- → What is the best way to reheat these muffins?
Warm muffins in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or toast lightly to restore softness and enhance flavors.