Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This typically takes about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the sausage is cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. You want the sausage to be crumbled and relatively dry, not swimming in fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, milk, and egg. Stir with a spoon or whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine for corn muffin batter.
- Add the cooked and drained breakfast sausage to the corn muffin batter.
- Add 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese to the mixture. Reserve the remaining ½ cup of cheese for topping.
- Gently fold the sausage and cheese into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly and melted, and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares. This allows the squares to set and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares!
Cooking Tips and Variations
For the best Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares, always start with well-drained sausage. Excess grease can make the squares greasy and prevent them from setting properly. After browning, you can even pat the sausage with paper towels to absorb more fat. When mixing the corn muffin batter, remember the golden rule: do not overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough and dense texture. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are incorporated; a few small lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable. For an extra golden-brown, slightly crispy top, you can turn on the broiler for the last minute or two of baking, but watch it constantly to prevent burning. Ensure your baking dish is adequately greased to prevent sticking, making removal and cleanup much easier.
The beauty of this simple recipe lies in its versatility. While classic pork breakfast sausage is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other types. Spicy sausage can add a pleasant kick, while turkey or chicken sausage offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based ground “sausage” crumbles, ensuring they are cooked and seasoned well. Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar for the cheese! Pepper jack will introduce a spicy, zesty note, mozzarella offers a milder, extra gooey texture, and a Mexican blend can add a different dimension of flavor. Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination. To further enhance the flavor and texture, consider adding finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even a can of drained green chiles or pickled jalapeños to the batter. These additions will boost the savory profile and add a fresh crunch. For a unique sweet and savory twist, drizzle a little maple syrup over the squares before serving; the combination is surprisingly delicious!
Storage and Reheating
Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares are excellent for meal prep and can be stored and reheated with ease. To store, allow the squares to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, these squares freeze beautifully. Arrange the cooled squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheating is simple. From the refrigerator, you can reheat individual squares in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. For a crispier exterior, reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to use an oven or toaster oven. Place the frozen squares on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and golden. Microwaving from frozen is possible but may result in a softer texture; start with 1-2 minutes and add time as needed until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These breakfast squares are perfect for making ahead. You can bake them the night before, let them cool, and then store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven for a quick and delicious breakfast. This makes them ideal for busy weekdays or feeding a crowd.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, these breakfast squares freeze wonderfully. Once baked and completely cooled, you can wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
What kind of corn muffin mix should I use?
This recipe specifically calls for an 8.5-ounce box of corn muffin mix, such as Jiffy. This particular brand is widely available and provides a consistent, delicious result. If using a different brand, make sure to check its specific instructions for milk and egg quantities, as these can vary. The key is to use a mix that typically yields a slightly sweet and savory cornbread base.
Can I use different sausage?
Yes, feel free to get creative with your sausage choice! While ground pork breakfast sausage is traditional and delicious, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. If you prefer a bit of heat, spicy breakfast sausage works wonderfully. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use plant-based sausage crumbles, ensuring they are cooked and seasoned according to their package directions before adding them to the batter.
Conclusion
There you have it – a recipe that promises to deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss. These Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares are a true kitchen MVP, offering a delicious, satisfying, and incredibly easy solution for breakfast, brunch, or even a savory snack. With just three main ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up a batch of these golden, cheesy, and hearty squares in no time, leaving you more moments to savor the start of your day.
Their versatility means you can easily adapt them to your taste preferences, whether you’re craving a little spice, a different type of cheese, or some added veggies. They’re perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a warm, homemade breakfast even on the busiest mornings, or for feeding a hungry family with ease. Plus, their universal appeal makes them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts.
So, what are you waiting for? Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to the delightful simplicity of Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares. We encourage you to try this fantastic recipe, experiment with your favorite variations, and share your delicious results. We’re confident that once you’ve experienced the ease and deliciousness of these squares, they’ll quickly become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!