Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins: The Perfect Breakfast On-The-Go

Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you crave something delicious, portable, and easy to make? Look no further! These mini sausage pancake muffins are the answer to your breakfast prayers. They’re a delightful combination of savory sausage and sweet pancake batter, baked into adorable, bite-sized muffins that are perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or even a fun snack.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to your preferences. Add cheese, veggies, or spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. They’re also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch ahead of time and have a quick and satisfying breakfast ready whenever you need it.

## Why You’ll Love These Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Kids love the fun shape and delicious flavor of these muffins.
* **Portable:** Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts, lunchboxes, or road trips.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for future enjoyment.
* **Versatile:** Customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients.
* **Delicious:** The combination of savory sausage and sweet pancake is irresistible.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Pancake Mix:** Use your favorite pancake mix. A complete mix (just add water) works best for convenience.
* **Sausage:** Breakfast sausage is the star of the show! You can use regular, maple-flavored, or even spicy sausage, depending on your preference. Pork or Turkey sausage both works great. Remove from casings.
* **Milk:** Milk adds moisture and richness to the pancake batter. You can use dairy or non-dairy milk.
* **Egg:** Egg binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the muffins.
* **Maple Syrup (Optional):** A drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to the muffins.
* **Cheese (Optional):** Shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or any cheese you like adds flavor and richness.
* **Vegetables (Optional):** Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach add nutrients and flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Enhance the sausage flavor.
* **Oil or Cooking Spray:** To prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan.

## Equipment

* **Muffin Tin:** A 24-cup mini muffin tin is ideal, but a regular muffin tin will also work (adjust baking time accordingly).
* **Mixing Bowls:** For preparing the pancake batter and sausage.
* **Whisk:** For mixing the pancake batter.
* **Spoon or Cookie Scoop:** For filling the muffin tin.
* **Skillet:** For pre-cooking the sausage. Optional if using pre-cooked sausage.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of mini sausage pancake muffins:

**1. Prepare the Sausage:**

* Remove the sausage from its casing. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully cooked and browned. Drain off any excess grease.
* If you’re using pre-cooked sausage, simply dice it into small pieces.

**2. Prepare the Pancake Batter:**

* In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and egg. Whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
* If you’re adding any vegetables or cheese, gently fold them into the pancake batter.

**3. Assemble the Muffins:**

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with oil or cooking spray.
* Spoon a small amount of pancake batter into each muffin cup, filling it about one-third full.
* Add a small spoonful of cooked sausage to each muffin cup.
* Top with more pancake batter, filling the muffin cups about two-thirds full.

**4. Bake the Muffins:**

* Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

**5. Cool and Serve:**

* Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
* Serve warm, with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the pancake batter can result in tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
* **Grease the Muffin Tin Well:** This will prevent the muffins from sticking and make them easier to remove.
* **Adjust Baking Time as Needed:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Check the muffins after 12 minutes and bake longer if needed.
* **Let the Muffins Cool Slightly:** This will help them to firm up and make them easier to remove from the muffin tin.
* **Use a Cookie Scoop:** A cookie scoop can help you fill the muffin tin evenly.

## Variations and Add-Ins

* **Cheese:** Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese to the pancake batter.
* **Vegetables:** Add diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or other vegetables to the pancake batter.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder to the pancake batter.
* **Maple Sausage:** Use maple-flavored sausage for a sweeter flavor.
* **Spicy Sausage:** Use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
* **Bacon:** Crumble cooked bacon and add it to the pancake batter along with the sausage.
* **Jalapeños:** Add diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
* **Everything Bagel Seasoning:** Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top of the muffins before baking.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the pancake batter for a sweet treat.
* **Fruit:** Add blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples to the pancake batter.

## Serving Suggestions

These mini sausage pancake muffins are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

* **Maple Syrup:** Drizzle with maple syrup for a classic pancake flavor.
* **Hot Sauce:** Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Fruit:** Serve with fresh fruit, such as berries, bananas, or sliced apples.
* **Yogurt:** Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or plain yogurt.
* **Whipped Cream:** Top with whipped cream for a decadent treat.
* **Breakfast Platter:** Serve as part of a larger breakfast platter with eggs, bacon, and toast.
* **Lunchbox Snack:** Pack them in a lunchbox for a fun and satisfying snack.

## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

These mini sausage pancake muffins are perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

* **Storage:** Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Freezing:** To freeze the muffins, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the muffins in the microwave, oven, or toaster oven. Microwave for 15-30 seconds. Oven or Toaster Oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

## Recipe

**Yields:** 24 mini muffins
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 ½ cups pancake mix
* 1 cup milk
* 1 large egg
* 8 ounces breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (about 1 cup)
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
* ¼ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
* Oil or cooking spray
* Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with oil or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and egg. Whisk until just combined.
3. Stir in the cooked sausage, cheddar cheese (if using), and bell peppers (if using).
4. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve warm, with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per muffin)

* Calories: 75
* Fat: 4g
* Saturated Fat: 2g
* Cholesterol: 20mg
* Sodium: 150mg
* Carbohydrates: 7g
* Sugar: 2g
* Protein: 3g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Enjoy Your Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins!

These mini sausage pancake muffins are a delicious and convenient way to start your day. They’re easy to make, portable, and freezer-friendly, making them perfect for busy families. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a tasty and satisfying breakfast on-the-go!