Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Savory & Satisfying: Bursting with gooey cheese and flavorful ham in every bite.
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Quick & Easy: Whip these up in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.
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Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or veggies to make them uniquely yours.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing to enjoy later.
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Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family meals, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 12 muffins
For the Muffins:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
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1 tbsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese that melts well)
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1/2 cup diced cooked ham (about 1/4-inch cubes)
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1/2 cup milk (whole or buttermilk works best)
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg, lightly beaten
Optional Add-Ins:
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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1/4 cup diced bell peppers
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1/4 tsp smoked paprika (for extra depth of flavor)
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1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (for a fun twist)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, and salt. -
Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. -
Combine Everything
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—don't overmix!
Fold in the shredded cheese, diced ham, and any optional add-ins, mixing until evenly distributed. -
Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Top with a little extra shredded cheese for a gooey finish. -
Bake
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool & Serve
Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Why This Recipe Works
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Cheese Magic: Gooey pockets of cheese add richness and indulgence.
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Ham Flavor Boost: The smoky ham complements the buttery muffin base beautifully.
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Moist Texture: The combination of milk, butter, and cheese creates soft, tender muffins.
Variations to Try
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
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Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese. Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
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Herbaceous Twist: Stir in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of freshness.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
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Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed alternative.
Tips for Success
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Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined to keep your muffins tender.
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Add Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
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Storage: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Romantic Touch: Plate individually with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for a gourmet look.
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Brunch Staple: Serve with scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or yogurt parfaits for a full meal.
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Party Platter: Pair with soups, stews, or dips like marinara or ranch for variety.
Final Thoughts
These Cheese and Ham Muffins are a savory, satisfying treat that works for any occasion. With their soft, buttery texture, melty cheese, and smoky ham, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Whether you serve them at breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a holiday spread, they’re sure to impress.
Have you tried making savory muffins before? What variations do you love? Let me know! 🧀