Cheese and Ham Muffins


 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Savory & Satisfying: Bursting with gooey cheese and flavorful ham in every bite.

  • Quick & Easy: Whip these up in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.

  • Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or veggies to make them uniquely yours.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing to enjoy later.

  • Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family meals, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 12 muffins

For the Muffins:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

  • 1 tbsp baking powder

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese that melts well)

  • 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (about 1/4-inch cubes)

  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or buttermilk works best)

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

  • 1/4 cup diced bell peppers

  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (for extra depth of flavor)

  • 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (for a fun twist)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients
    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, and salt.

  3. Add Wet Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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

  • Cheese Magic: Gooey pockets of cheese add richness and indulgence.

  • Ham Flavor Boost: The smoky ham complements the buttery muffin base beautifully.

  • Moist Texture: The combination of milk, butter, and cheese creates soft, tender muffins.

Variations to Try

  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

  • 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).

  • Herbaceous Twist: Stir in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of freshness.

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed alternative.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined to keep your muffins tender.

  • Add Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.

  • 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

  • Romantic Touch: Plate individually with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for a gourmet look.

  • Brunch Staple: Serve with scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or yogurt parfaits for a full meal.

  • 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! 🧀