Crazy-Good Cheesy Sausage Muffins (No Bisquick) – 5-Star Recipe

There’s something about a warm, cheesy muffin packed with savory sausage that feels like a hug in food form. Whether you’re rushing out the door in the morning or need a hearty snack to keep you going, these Cheesy Sausage Muffins are here to save the day. They’re packed with flavor, super easy to make, and don’t require any Bisquick—just simple pantry staples.

I first discovered these Cheesy Sausage Muffins when I was looking for a way to recreate the classic Southern sausage balls without using store-bought baking mix. The problem? I wanted them to have the same comforting taste but in a fluffier, muffin-like form. After some trial and error, I found the perfect balance of fluffy texture, cheesy goodness, and rich, savory sausage flavor—all in a portable muffin shape.

These muffins are the ultimate grab-and-go breakfast, perfect for meal prep and totally customizable. Want them a little sweet? Add a drizzle of maple syrup. Prefer a spicy kick? Use hot sausage and throw in some pepper jack cheese. No matter how you make them, they always turn out delicious.

If you’re looking for a protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family, these muffins are for you. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love these Cheesy Sausage Muffins, but let’s start with the most important ones:

• No Bisquick needed – This recipe ditches the store-bought mix and instead uses simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, and butter for a completely homemade touch.
• Easy to make – With just one mixing bowl and a muffin tin, these come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
• Protein-packed and satisfying – Thanks to the combination of sausage, cheese, and eggs, these muffins keep you full for hours.
• Gluten-free adaptable – Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend, and you’ve got a delicious, celiac-friendly breakfast option.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make a batch at the start of the week, store them in the fridge or freezer, and reheat them in seconds.
• Totally customizable – Use different cheeses, swap the sausage for turkey, or add mix-ins like spinach, peppers, or even a touch of sweetness with apples.

These Cheesy Sausage Muffins check all the boxes: they’re quick, flavorful, nutritious, and absolutely delicious.

Health Benefits

Aside from being incredibly tasty, these Cheesy Sausage Muffins have some surprising health benefits:

• High in protein – Each muffin is packed with protein from the sausage, cheese, and eggs, making them an excellent choice for keeping energy levels stable throughout the morning.
• Low in sugar – Unlike many store-bought muffins that are loaded with sugar, these have just a hint of natural sweetness from maple syrup, keeping them balanced.
• Rich in healthy fats – The combination of butter, cheese, and sausage provides healthy fats that support brain function and help keep you full.
• Good source of calcium – Thanks to the cheese and milk, these muffins are a tasty way to get some extra calcium for strong bones.
• Customizable for dietary needs – Whether you need a gluten-free, keto-friendly, or lower-fat version, this recipe can be easily adapted.

With all these benefits, you don’t have to feel guilty about grabbing one (or two) of these muffins for breakfast.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins
• Calories per muffin: 336 kcal
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Calcium: 216mg

Ingredients List

To make these fluffy and flavorful muffins, you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup milk (whole milk works best, but any milk is fine)
• 1 egg
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or granulated sugar)

Other Ingredients

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Optional Additions

• For spice: Add ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper or use spicy sausage
• For a garlic flavor: Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• For a sweet-savory combo: Add chopped apples or cranberries
• For extra veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or spinach

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners. This ensures easy removal and a golden-brown exterior.

2. Cook the Sausage

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the breakfast sausage, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. Add the Cheese and Sausage

Stir in the cooked sausage and shredded cheese, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This helps the cheese and sausage blend into the batter.

5. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, maple syrup, and melted butter.

6. Mix the Batter

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are fine.

7. Fill the Muffin Tins

Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each one to the top.

8. Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

How to Serve

These Cheesy Sausage Muffins are perfect on their own, but here are a few ideas to make them even better:

• With eggs – Serve alongside scrambled or poached eggs for a complete breakfast.
• With a side salad – Pair with a simple arugula salad for a light lunch.
• As a snack – Enjoy one warm with a dab of butter or cream cheese.
• With soup – These muffins are a fantastic savory side for a warm bowl of tomato soup.

Pairing Suggestions

• Beverages: Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
• Fruit: Enjoy with fresh fruit like sliced apples, berries, or oranges.
• Dips: Try with a side of honey butter, salsa, or a spicy aioli.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Store in the fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: Wrap muffins in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Best Occasions to Serve Cheesy Sausage Muffins

These muffins aren’t just for breakfast—they’re perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them at brunch gatherings with friends alongside fresh fruit and coffee. They make a great quick and easy lunchbox addition, providing a filling and protein-packed option for both kids and adults. For meal prep enthusiasts, these muffins are an ideal make-ahead breakfast that you can grab and reheat in seconds. They also shine as a party appetizer when made in a mini muffin tin, served with a side of spicy aioli or honey butter. Whether you need a snack for road trips or a savory side dish for soups and salads, these muffins fit the bill perfectly.

How to Make These Cheesy Sausage Muffins Keto-Friendly

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, it’s easy to adapt this recipe. Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carbs while keeping a delicious texture. Instead of milk, use heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk. A touch of cream cheese added to the batter can help keep the muffins moist and add a rich, creamy texture. Finally, opt for a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol if you still want a hint of sweetness. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy a keto-friendly version of these muffins without compromising flavor.

How to Add a Sweet and Savory Twist

While these muffins are deliciously savory, adding a bit of sweetness can take them to the next level. Try mixing in diced apples or pears for a slightly fruity contrast. Cranberries also pair wonderfully with the sausage and cheese, bringing a tangy sweetness to every bite. You can also sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. For extra indulgence, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top of the warm muffins before serving. The balance of sweet and savory makes these muffins even more irresistible.

Turning These Muffins Into a Breakfast Sandwich

Want to take these muffins to the next level? Turn them into mini breakfast sandwiches! Simply slice a muffin in half and layer it with a fried or scrambled egg, a slice of cheese, and even a little extra sausage or bacon. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of avocado mash or a spread of cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor. These make fantastic meal-prep sandwiches—just wrap them in foil and reheat when you’re ready to eat. It’s an easy way to elevate these muffins and make them even more satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes! These muffins are perfect for meal prep. You can bake them in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months and reheat when needed.

How do I reheat frozen muffins?

For best results, let frozen muffins thaw in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, microwave one for about 20–30 seconds. To get that fresh-out-of-the-oven texture, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage works great as a leaner option. Just make sure to cook and crumble it well before adding it to the batter. You may want to add an extra pinch of seasoning since turkey sausage tends to be milder in flavor.

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Brands like King Arthur or Cup4Cup work well, and the texture remains just as fluffy and delicious.

Can I add vegetables to these muffins?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, spinach, or onions make great additions. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture, then mix them into the batter before baking.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack (for spice), Swiss (for nuttiness), or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a different taste.

Can I make these muffins spicy?

If you love a little heat, use spicy breakfast sausage and add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Pepper jack cheese is another great way to turn up the spice level.

Do I have to use maple syrup or sugar?

The touch of sweetness helps balance the flavors, but you can leave it out if you prefer a fully savory muffin. If you want an alternative, try honey or a sugar-free substitute.

Can I make mini sausage muffins instead of regular-sized ones?

Yes! Just use a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time to around 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overbake.

Can I turn these into a casserole instead of muffins?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. This is a great option for serving a crowd!

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Cheesy Sausage Muffins are everything you want in a quick, hearty breakfast: cheesy, savory, and totally satisfying. They’re perfect for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and completely customizable.

Give them a try, and let me know how they turn out! If you make them, snap a picture and share it—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!

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