INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
Step 3: Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened (approximately 3-5 minutes).
Step 4: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the sausage and vegetable mixture to cool slightly.
Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
Step 7: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (avoid overmixing).
Step 8: Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture, along with shredded cheddar cheese, to the batter. Gently fold the ingredients until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 9: Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Optional: sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top of each muffin for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Step 10: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 11: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes. Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely or serve them warm for immediate enjoyment.
Step 12: These Sausage Breakfast Muffins are delectable on their own, but you can also enhance the experience by serving them with a side of salsa, hot sauce, or avocado slices. With their savory sausage, tender vegetables, and cheesy goodness, these muffins are a delightful way to kick-start your day, satisfying your morning cravings and preparing you for whatever the day may bring. Whip up a batch and relish a flavorful breakfast experience at home or on the go.
