There’s something irresistible about biting into a savory muffin that balances the saltiness of ham with the creamy richness of sharp cheddar. These Ham and Cheese Muffins are more than just a quick breakfast; they’re a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Each bite greets you with the tender crumb of a perfectly baked muffin, speckled with vibrant green onions that offer a subtle pop of freshness. Whether you’re racing out the door on a busy weekday or leisurely sipping coffee on a sunny weekend morning, these muffins deliver the hearty fuel you need, wrapped in a warm, golden package.
I’ve always believed that great recipes are the ones you can make with minimal fuss yet still feel like you’ve created something special. With just a handful of pantry staples—flour, baking powder, milk, eggs—and a few flavorful extras like diced ham and shredded cheese, you’ll whip up a batch in no time. The prep takes a mere 15 minutes, and in just 20 minutes of baking, your kitchen transforms into a homey haven filled with savory goodness. This beginner-friendly recipe is perfect for those new to baking or seasoned home cooks craving an easy, satisfying snack. Once you try it, I promise you’ll be swapping out plain muffins for these savory delights in your regular rotation!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HAM AND CHEESE MUFFINS
Before we dive into the step-by-step directions, let’s meet the cast of ingredients that make these muffins shine. Each component plays an essential role, from providing structure to delivering bursts of flavor.
- All-purpose flour
This versatile flour forms the base of the muffins, giving them structure and a tender crumb. It’s the backbone that holds all the flavors together without weighing them down.
- Baking powder
Our secret weapon for light, fluffy muffins. Baking powder creates tiny air pockets as it reacts with moisture and heat, ensuring each bite feels soft and airy.
- Salt
A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese and the savory notes of the ham.
- Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat and depth, cutting through the richness and adding a hint of spice.
- Garlic powder
A touch of garlic powder introduces a subtle, savory undertone that complements both the ham and the cheese.
- Milk
Milk hydrates the dry ingredients and adds moisture, creating a smooth batter that bakes into a perfectly tender muffin.
- Vegetable oil
Oil keeps the muffins moist and soft long after they’ve cooled, ensuring a tender texture every time.
- Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients together and help create a tender, rich muffin crumb.
- Diced cooked ham
These savory bites of ham provide a salty, meaty texture that transforms the muffins into a hearty snack or meal.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar melts into gooey pockets of flavor, adding tang and richness to every bite.
- Chopped green onions
Bright green onions lend a fresh, oniony zing that lightens and enlivens the savory muffin mix.
HOW TO MAKE HAM AND CHEESE MUFFINS
Crafting these muffins is simple and straightforward. With just a few bowls and basic kitchen tools, you’ll mix, fold, and bake your way to a batch of golden-brown, savory delights. Let’s get started!
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup to ensure the muffins lift out cleanly once baked.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps the muffins rise uniformly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This combines the liquids and starts to build the batter’s structure.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop too much gluten, making the muffins tough rather than tender.
5. Fold in the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Use a spatula to incorporate these add-ins evenly, so every muffin has a perfect distribution of savory bits.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. This gives the muffins room to rise without spilling over.
7. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.
8. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This brief rest helps them set, making them easier to remove.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HAM AND CHEESE MUFFINS
These savory muffins are incredibly versatile, making them a delightful addition to breakfast spreads, brunch buffets, or casual snack tables. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, there are countless ways to elevate the experience. Serve them warm straight from the oven to enjoy the gooey cheese at its peak. Pairing them with classic breakfast items or integrating them into creative dishes can turn these muffins into the star of any meal. Here are a few ideas to get you started—you’ll find that each suggestion brings out different facets of these golden bites, from rich and melty to bright and fresh. So grab a plate, brew your favorite coffee or tea, and let these muffins shine in ways you never imagined!
- Butter and Herb Spread
Slice a muffin in half and spread with softened butter mixed with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. The rich butter melds with the warm muffin, while the herbs add a pop of freshness.
- Hearty Soup Companion
Serve muffins alongside a steaming bowl of tomato bisque or creamy potato soup. The muffins’ savory depth perfectly complements the rich, comforting soup flavors.
- Breakfast Sandwich Upgrade
Use a cooled muffin as the base for a breakfast sandwich. Layer on scrambled eggs, extra cheese, and a few spinach leaves for a portable, protein-packed meal.
- Picnic Snack
Pack muffins in a basket with sliced fruits, cold cuts, and olives. These hand-held snacks are ideal for enjoying outdoors without the need for utensils.
HOW TO STORE HAM AND CHEESE MUFFINS
Keeping these muffins fresh is all about controlling moisture and airflow. Whether you plan to enjoy them over the next few days or want to stash some in the freezer for future cravings, proper storage ensures they maintain their flavor and texture. After cooling completely, wrapping them or placing them in the right containers prevents dryness and extends their shelf life. I’ve tested several methods, and the tricks below will help you preserve the muffins’ golden tops, tender crumb, and savory fillings. Follow these steps, and you’ll always have delicious snacks on hand—perfect for busy mornings, impromptu gatherings, or simple comfort eating.
- Room Temperature in an Airtight Container
Once fully cooled, place the muffins in a tightly sealed container or zip-top bag. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method keeps them soft without drying them out.
- Refrigeration for Extended Freshness
If you want to enjoy the muffins over a week, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They’ll stay moist, and you can gently reheat them in the microwave or oven for a few seconds.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Wrap each cooled muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat straight from frozen in a warm oven.
- Reheating Tips
For best results, warm refrigerated or frozen muffins in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until heated through. This restores the crisp edges and melty cheese pockets.
CONCLUSION
These Ham and Cheese Muffins have everything you need to conquer any hunger pang—simplicity, speed, and sensational flavor. From the first moment you whisk together the milk, oil, and eggs, you’re on the path to golden, fluffy bites bursting with savory ham, sharp cheddar, and bright green onions. The easy prep (just 15 minutes!) and quick bake time make this recipe ideal for busy mornings, snack attacks, or even a charming addition to your lunchbox. With beginner-friendly steps and flexible serving options, you’ll find these muffins become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later. Whether you’re building a binder of your favorite breakfast recipes or gathering ideas for a weekend brunch, this is one you’ll revisit time and again. You can also find a FAQ below to help troubleshoot any questions or to adapt the recipe to dietary needs. I’d love to hear from you—drop a comment if you try the recipe, share your own tweaks, or ask for tips if you hit any bumps along the way. Here’s to many more baking adventures and savory, comforting muffins ahead!
Ham and Cheese Muffins
Description
These enticing muffins blend savory ham and rich cheddar cheese, creating a fluffy treat ideal for any time of day. They're quick to make and deliciously satisfying!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups.
-
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until thoroughly combined.
-
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
-
Fold in the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
-
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
-
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
-
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Note
- These muffins can be served warm or at room temperature.
- They make a great breakfast option, snack, or side dish to a bowl of soup.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- The muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
