When I was searching for a breakfast option that was both indulgent and quick to prepare, I stumbled upon a recipe that changed my mornings forever: the Savory Breakfast Muffin with Egg, Sausage, and Cheddar. Imagine the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as warm muffins bake to golden perfection. The moment you break into one, the gooey yolk from the soft-boiled egg spills out, mixing beautifully with the savory notes of sausage and the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese.
Inspired by the renowned Craftsman Wolves bakery in San Francisco, these muffins blend the comforting texture of a tender biscuit with an irresistible, hearty twist. Perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches, they’re so customizable that you can easily adapt them to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeling adventurous with spicy jalapeños or prefer the classic duo of chives and cheese, these muffins are not just another breakfast option—they’re a satisfying way to elevate your morning routine. Let’s dive into this delightful creation that’s bound to become a new favorite!
Why You’ll Love Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffin
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of savory sausage, rich cheddar, and fragrant chives delivers a hearty breakfast experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Customizable Delight: Easily adapt this recipe with your favorite ingredients, such as spicy peppers or fresh herbs, to suit your unique cravings.
Baker’s Dream: Simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for seasoned chefs, this muffin will elevate any breakfast table.
Quick & Convenient: Ideal for busy mornings, these muffins hold well in the fridge, allowing for easy reheating and enjoyment throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: The gooey egg center will surely impress family and friends at brunch gatherings, making these muffins a show-stopping dish!
Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffin Ingredients
For the Muffins
• Large Eggs – These create a creamy center; use them at room temperature for better integration.
• Breakfast Sausage – Provides a savory flavor; consider using cooked vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Enhances richness; you can substitute with mozzarella for a different taste.
• Chopped Chives – Adds fresh flavor; green onions can be used as an alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base; opt for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Salt – Brings out flavors; adjust according to personal taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds a kick; increase for more heat if you enjoy spicy flavors.
• Baking Powder – Helps the muffins rise; ensure it’s fresh for maximum fluffiness.
• Baking Soda – Works with acidic ingredients for added lift.
• Chilled Butter – Creates a flaky texture; cut it into small cubes for easy mixing.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture; you can swap it with yogurt thinned with milk if needed.
• Half and Half – Boosts creaminess; whole milk can work as a lighter option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Offers a savory finish; nutritional yeast is a great substitute for a dairy-free option.
For the Soft-Boiled Eggs
• Eggs (for the centers) – Boil for exactly 3 minutes to achieve that beautiful runny yolk; cool in an ice bath before peeling.
How to Make Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffins
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Prepare the Muffin Base: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, baking powder, and baking soda. This mixture sets the foundation for the delightful muffins to come!
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Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients: Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then, add buttermilk and half and half, mixing until just combined. The dough should be a tad lumpy—don’t overdo it!
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Add Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. This adds delicious flavor to your muffins, making them the star of your breakfast!
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Fill Muffin Tins: Divide the batter into muffin cups, filling them about two-thirds full. Leave some space at the top for the eggs to sit.
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Prep the Eggs: Boil eggs for precisely 3 minutes to achieve the perfect runny yolk, then cool in an ice bath. Once cooled, carefully peel and place one egg in the center of each muffin batter cup.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the muffin comes out clean. The irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen!
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Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool slightly before indulging. This way, the egg will retain that luscious runny center, making each bite a warm, flavorful experience.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra chives for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply mix and fold in the sausage, cheese, and chives, then place in muffin tins without adding the egg. For the soft-boiled eggs, you can cook them up to 3 days in advance; cool them in an ice bath and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake and serve, just insert the chilled egg in the center of each cup and bake as instructed. This make-ahead approach ensures your breakfast remains just as delicious while saving you valuable morning time!
How to Store and Freeze Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffins
Room Temperature: Keep muffins at room temperature for up to 1 day in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving to enjoy their delightful texture again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the egg remains a deliciously soft texture.
What to Serve with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffin?
These flavorful muffins can be paired with delightful sides that enhance their hearty appeal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The sweetness of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the savory muffin, brightening your breakfast experience.
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Light Green Salad: Crisp greens with a hint of lemon vinaigrette offer a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of sausage and cheese.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread over whole-grain bread complements the flavors and adds healthy fats, making your breakfast feel indulgently wholesome.
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Roasted Veggies: Tender, caramelized vegetables bring earthy tones to your plate, enhancing the muffins’ savory notes while adding extra nutrients.
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Hot Sauce Drizzle: A spicy kick from your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavors in these muffins, adding a zing that adventurous eaters will love.
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Berry Smoothie: A vibrant berry smoothie pairs deliciously with the muffins, providing a creamy and fruity element to your meal—perfect for a quick, nutritious boost.
For a cozy brunch gathering, these pairings will round out your meal beautifully, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied and happy!
Variations & Substitutions for Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffin
Feel free to play with this recipe! Embrace your culinary creativity and tailor these muffins to your taste.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the breakfast sausage for a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for an earthy, vibrant flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a zesty kick; this will add a delightful heat to each muffin.
- Herb Infusion: Replace chives with fresh herbs like dill or basil to give your muffins a fragrant and fresh twist.
This little tweak will enliven the entire batch, making every bite an herbaceous adventure. - Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy version that will wake up your taste buds and add an exciting zing to breakfast.
- Savory Add-Ins: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an Italian flair that brings rich flavors and a touch of gourmet to your muffins.
- Vegan Option: Use flax eggs instead of traditional eggs, and substitute with plant-based sausage for a vegan-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Sweet Heat: Try adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter, which beautifully balances the savory elements while adding a hint of sweetness.
- Breakfast Bowl: If you prefer a hearty breakfast bowl, transform this muffin recipe into a savory muffin base, then top with scrambled eggs, avocado, and salsa for a full meal experience.
This approach allows you to enjoy the same delightful flavors in a new, comforting way!
Expert Tips for Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffins
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Egg Timing: Boil your eggs for exactly 3 minutes. This timing is critical for achieving that perfect runny yolk that’s heavenly in your muffins.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense muffins, so a few lumps are perfectly fine!
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and buttermilk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter rise better and gives your muffins a fluffy texture.
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Creative Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor of your Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffins to suit your palate.
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Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the muffin. If it comes out clean except for a little egg on the tip, your muffins are perfectly baked!
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Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their fluffy texture before serving.
Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffin with Soft Boiled Egg Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best eggs for this recipe?
When choosing eggs, look for large, fresh eggs with no cracks. Ideally, eggs should be at room temperature for better integration into the muffin mixture. If possible, opt for organic or free-range eggs to enhance flavor and support animal welfare.
How should I store leftovers of the muffins?
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat them in the oven to maintain their desirable fluffy texture. A quick option is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I freeze Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffins?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed.
What should I do if my muffins are too dense?
If your muffins turn out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Be sure to mix the batter just until combined and that your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature. Following these steps will help achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Are these muffins suitable for special diets?
Yes! You can easily customize this recipe. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you need a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk with a splash of lemon juice in place of buttermilk, and omit or replace the cheese with nutritional yeast.
How can I enhance the flavor of my muffins?
Feel free to experiment! Add herbs like fresh rosemary or thyme, or throw in some diced bell peppers for extra flavor. Spicy cheese or smoked sausage can also make a delightful twist, so let your culinary creativity shine!
Savoring Sausage, Cheddar, and Chive Muffin with Soft Boiled Egg
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add buttermilk and half and half, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives.
- Divide the batter into muffin cups, filling them about two-thirds full.
- Boil eggs for precisely 3 minutes to achieve the perfect runny yolk, then cool in an ice bath.
- Carefully peel and place one egg in the center of each muffin batter cup.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving.