Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or an 8×8 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, crumble the breakfast sausage. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned and no pink remains.
- Once cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease from the sausage. This step is crucial for preventing your breakfast squares from becoming oily. You can use a colander or tilt the pan and use a spoon to scoop out the grease.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained breakfast sausage with the 2 cups of shredded cheese. Stir well to ensure the sausage and cheese are evenly distributed.
- In a separate medium bowl, prepare the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix according to the package directions. Typically, this involves combining the muffin mix with 1/3 cup milk and 1 egg. Whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.
- Pour the prepared corn muffin batter over the sausage and cheese mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the ingredients to be incorporated but not overworked.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to gently press the mixture down and spread it into an even layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cheese on top should be melted and slightly bubbly, with some delicious browning around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the squares to set up properly, making them easier to cut and serve.
- Cut into squares (approximately 9-12 squares, depending on desired size) and serve warm.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For the best results, always ensure your breakfast sausage is thoroughly cooked and well-drained. Excess grease can make the squares soggy. If you want an extra crispy bottom, you can preheat your baking pan in the oven for a few minutes before adding the mixture, but be careful when handling a hot pan. Don’t overmix the corn muffin batter or the final mixture; overmixing can lead to tough squares. Just mix until the ingredients are just combined.
The beauty of these breakfast squares lies in their versatility. While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other varieties. A sharp cheddar will give a more pronounced cheesy flavor, while a Monterey Jack will provide a creamier texture. A Mexican blend or a Colby Jack can also add a delightful twist. For sausage, you can stick with classic pork breakfast sausage, but feel free to try a spicy version for a kick, or even turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just ensure it’s a ground sausage that crumbles well.
To really make these your own, consider adding some extra ingredients. Finely diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) or onions can add a nice texture and flavor boost. Sauté them with the sausage to soften them up before mixing. A pinch of red pepper flakes mixed in with the sausage can elevate the spice level. For a touch of green, chopped fresh chives or green onions folded into the mixture or sprinkled on top after baking can add freshness and color. You can also experiment with different seasonings; a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of smoked paprika can deepen the savory notes.
For a different presentation, you can bake these in a muffin tin for individual “muffin” sized servings. Just adjust the baking time, likely reducing it to 18-22 minutes, and keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and cooked through. This is fantastic for portion control and grab-and-go convenience.
Storage and Reheating
These Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares are fantastic for meal prepping! Once they have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To prevent them from sticking together, you can place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking them.
For longer storage, these squares freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat them directly from frozen.
Reheating is simple and versatile. For a quick reheat, the microwave works well: place a square on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them rubbery. For a crispier texture, especially if reheating from frozen, use a toaster oven or conventional oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes (if thawed) or 15-25 minutes (if frozen), until heated through and slightly crispy. An air fryer is also an excellent option for reheating, giving them a wonderful crisp exterior; heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes for thawed squares, or 10-15 minutes for frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of muffin mix?
While Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix is specifically called for in this 3-ingredient recipe and contributes to its unique flavor and texture, you can experiment with other plain muffin mixes or even biscuit mixes. However, the exact flavor and texture might change, and you may need to adjust the liquid requirements as per the package instructions for that specific mix. Using a different mix might also alter the “3-ingredient” simplicity if that mix requires more components than Jiffy.
Can I make these dairy-free or gluten-free?
Making these entirely dairy-free would require substituting the cheese with a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative and ensuring your Jiffy mix (or alternative) and sausage are dairy-free. For gluten-free, you would need to use a gluten-free corn muffin mix. Always check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs, as ingredient compositions can vary by brand.
What can I serve with these breakfast squares?
These squares are hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a balanced meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad, some scrambled eggs, or a simple green salad. For an extra kick, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of salsa makes a great accompaniment. A surprising but delicious pairing is a touch of maple syrup for a sweet and savory contrast. They are also excellent served with a side of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy element.