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Sausage Cheese English Muffins: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Breakfast

The aroma of toasted English muffins mingled with savory sausage and that distinctive tang of processed cheese – it instantly transports me back to weekend mornings at my grandmother’s. She always had a stash of these Sausage Cheese English Muffins in the freezer, ready to be nuked into warm, comforting deliciousness. While my culinary sensibilities have evolved since then, I still appreciate the sheer convenience and satisfying flavor of this humble breakfast staple. These are perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick, protein-packed start to the day.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute (Microwave – excluding sausage browning)
Total Time: 16 minutes (excluding sausage browning & freezing)
Servings: 18
Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

2 lbs bulk sausage, good quality (I use Jimmy Dean)
3 (5 ounce) jars Kraft old English cheese
18 English muffins

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet or Saucepan
Spatula
Knife
Cutting board
Plastic wrap
Freezer bag

Instructions

Begin by browning the bulk sausage in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Use a spatula to break the sausage apart as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, brown the sausage in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
Once the sausage is fully cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease. Excess grease can make the finished muffins soggy, so this step is important.
In the same skillet or saucepan (with the heat still on low), add the 3 jars of Kraft Old English cheese to the browned sausage. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and evenly combined with the sausage. This will create a creamy, savory mixture. Ensure there are no lumps of cheese remaining.
While the cheese is melting, split the 18 English muffins in half. You should have 36 muffin halves in total.
Now, divide the sausage and cheese mixture equally among the bottom halves of the English muffins. Use a spoon or spatula to distribute the mixture evenly, ensuring each muffin is generously covered.
Replace the tops of the English muffins, creating 18 complete sandwiches.
Wrap each muffin individually with plastic wrap. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the muffins fresh. Make sure the plastic wrap is sealed tightly around each muffin.
Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air from the bag before sealing it tightly.
Store the freezer bag of wrapped muffins in the freezer until needed.
To use: Microwave for 1 minute. Unwrap from plastic wrap before microwaving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Sausage Selection: While Jimmy Dean is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different sausage varieties. Hot sausage will add a spicy kick, while maple sausage will lend a touch of sweetness.
Cheese Upgrade: For a richer, more complex flavor, consider using a combination of shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese instead of the Kraft Old English cheese. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead Magic: These muffins are fantastic for meal prepping. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week.
Preventing Soggy Muffins: Make sure to drain the sausage thoroughly to prevent the muffins from becoming soggy.
Even Distribution: Use an ice cream scoop for evenly portioning the sausage and cheese mixture onto the English muffins.
Toasting Option: For a crispier muffin, toast the English muffin halves lightly before adding the sausage and cheese mixture.
Microwave Mastery: Microwaves vary, so the cooking time may need adjustment. Start with 1 minute and add 15-second increments until heated through.
Oven Reheating: If you prefer a less soggy result, reheat the frozen muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Sausage Cheese English Muffins straight from the microwave for a quick and satisfying breakfast. You can also pair them with a side of fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait for a more complete meal.

For storage, keep the wrapped muffins in the freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.

Do not store at room temperature. They should be stored either in the refrigerator or freezer.
To reheat from the refrigerator: Microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	245.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	10.3 g	15%
Saturated Fat	2.9 g	14%
Cholesterol	36.8 mg	12%
Sodium	498 mg	20%
Total Carbohydrate	25.2 g	8%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	8%
Sugars	2 g	8%
Protein	12.6 g	25%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while browning for a spicier kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or a mixture of sauteed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to the sausage mixture for added nutrients.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on the muffin tops before freezing for extra flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free English muffins for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Different Breads: If you don’t have English muffins, use bagels or biscuits instead.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage to save time?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage. Just make sure to heat it through before combining it with the cheese.

Q: How do I prevent the muffins from becoming soggy when microwaving?
A: Wrapping the muffins tightly in plastic wrap helps, as does avoiding overcooking them in the microwave. Microwaving them on a paper towel can also help absorb some moisture.

Q: Can I add eggs to the sausage and cheese mixture?
A: Yes, you can add scrambled eggs to the sausage and cheese mixture for a heartier breakfast. Cook the eggs separately and then mix them in with the sausage and cheese.

Q: How long can I store these muffins in the freezer?
A: These muffins can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality.

Q: Can I reheat these in the oven instead of the microwave?
A: Yes, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will result in a crispier muffin.

Final Thoughts

These Sausage Cheese English Muffins are more than just a quick breakfast; they’re a taste of nostalgia and a testament to the power of simple, satisfying food. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Experiment with different sausages, cheeses, and add-ins to create your perfect make-ahead breakfast. Share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how you’ve personalized this classic recipe! Serve with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of fresh juice for the perfect start to your day.

Sausage Cheese English Muffins Recipe