Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
- If your breakfast sausage is uncooked, begin by cooking it in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks until it is fully browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess grease thoroughly. If using pre-cooked sausage, ensure it is crumbled and ready to use.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and the entire box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk and the large egg until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients (milk and egg mixture) into the bowl with the sausage, cheese, and muffin mix. Stir all ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan. You want it to be compact but not overly dense.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The squares should be set in the center.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial for the squares to set properly and be easier to cut cleanly.
- After cooling, cut the mixture into squares using a sharp knife. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Variations
To achieve that perfect golden crust on your breakfast squares, make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the pan in. Don’t be afraid to let them bake for the full 25 minutes if they’re not quite golden enough at 20. A beautifully browned top adds so much flavor and texture. For extra crispiness, you can even broil for the last minute or two, but watch it carefully to prevent burning!
The beauty of these squares lies in their adaptability. While cheddar is a classic for its melty goodness and familiar flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack offers a milder, extra-melty texture, while Colby or a Colby-Jack blend provides a lovely balance. For a bit of a kick, try adding some pepper jack cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, a smoky gouda or even a sharp provolone could be interesting.
When it comes to the sausage, the possibilities are vast. If you enjoy a bit of heat, swap out the regular breakfast sausage for a spicy variety. For a lighter option, turkey sausage works wonderfully and still provides that savory element. You could even use finely diced ham or cooked bacon bits for a different flavor profile. Just ensure whatever meat you use is fully cooked and well-drained before adding it to the mix.
Want to amp up the flavor and add some vegetables? Finely diced bell peppers (red or green) or a small amount of finely minced onion can be sautéed with the sausage for extra depth. For a touch of heat, finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less spice) are a fantastic addition. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley, finely chopped, can also brighten up the flavor. Just be mindful not to add too many wet ingredients, as this can alter the texture of the squares.
These squares are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with various accompaniments. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can add a zesty kick, while a side of warm maple syrup offers a delightful sweet and savory contrast. They’re also excellent served alongside scrambled or fried eggs, or a simple fruit salad for a more complete breakfast or brunch spread. For a hearty lunch, serve them with a fresh green salad.
Storage and Reheating
These Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Squares are excellent for meal prep! To store, ensure they are completely cooled to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating is simple and quick. From the refrigerator, you can reheat squares in the microwave for 30-60 seconds per square, or until heated through. For a crispier texture, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first, then reheat as directed for refrigerated squares. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, though they may take longer and won’t be quite as crispy as when fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of sausage works best for these squares?
While any breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or even vegetarian crumbles) will work, a classic savory pork breakfast sausage provides the most traditional and robust flavor. Ensure it’s fully cooked and well-drained of grease before mixing.
Can I make these ahead of time for a crowd?
Absolutely! These squares are perfect for making ahead. You can bake them the day before and reheat them in the oven or microwave just before serving. They also hold up well at room temperature for a couple of hours, making them ideal for potlucks or brunch buffets.
What if I don’t have Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix?
The Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix is key to the simplicity and specific texture of this recipe. It already contains flour, cornmeal, leavening, and some sweetness. While you could attempt to replicate it with a homemade corn bread mix, it would add more ingredients and steps, defeating the “3-ingredient” magic. It’s highly recommended to use Jiffy for this particular recipe.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can! Finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even a few chopped spinach leaves (sautéed and squeezed dry) can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté any raw vegetables first to soften them and remove excess moisture before adding to the mix.