Savory Cheese, Spinach & Ham Muffins

A protein-packed, versatile breakfast or snack muffin that’s perfect for meal prep

KEY INFO:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Contains gluten, dairy, eggs (gluten-free variation available)

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

12-hole muffin tin
2 mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or fork
Spatula
Alternative: Silicone muffin cases instead of greasing tin

INGREDIENTS:

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Wet Ingredients:

2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) milk
¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
1½ cups (150g) grated cheddar cheese [substitute: mozzarella or tasty cheese]
1 cup (30g) fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup (150g) ham, diced
Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder

METHOD:

Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F. Grease muffin tin or line with paper cases.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, beat eggs, milk, and oil until well combined.
Add cheese, spinach, and ham to the wet ingredients. Mix gently.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Fold together until JUST combined – do not overmix!
Divide batter evenly between muffin holes (about ¾ full).
Bake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
Cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

CRUCIAL TIPS:

Squeeze excess moisture from spinach before adding
Do not overmix – some flour lumps are okay
Test doneness with skewer in center muffin
Rotate tin halfway through baking for even cooking

STORAGE & VARIATIONS:

Storage:

Room temperature: 2 days in airtight container
Refrigerated: 5 days
Frozen: Up to 3 months

Common Mistakes:

Overmixing makes tough muffins
Wet spinach creates soggy results
Overfilling muffin cases leads to overflow

Variations:

Swap ham for bacon or mushrooms
Use feta and sun-dried tomatoes
Make gluten-free using 1:1 GF flour blend
Low-carb version: Omit flour, double eggs and cheese

These muffins are perfect for breakfast on the go, lunchboxes, or as a protein-rich snack. They freeze beautifully – just microwave for 30 seconds when ready to eat!