FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE SAUSAGE FILLING

1. Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled halal chicken or beef sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables: Once the sausage is cooked, add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add the oregano and paprika, stirring to incorporate the spices. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

SECOND STEP: PREPARE THE MUFFIN BATTER

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to dense muffins. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.
4. Add the Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded cheese, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE THE MUFFINS

1. Prepare the Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line with muffin liners.
2. Add Sausage Filling: Take a spoonful of the sausage and vegetable mixture and add it to each muffin cup. Use the back of the spoon to press it gently into the bottom of each cup.
3. Top with Muffin Batter: Spoon the muffin batter on top of the sausage mixture, filling each muffin cup about ¾ of the way full. Use a spoon to spread the batter evenly.
4. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top of each muffin to ensure a golden, cheesy top when baked.

FOURTH STEP: BAKE THE MUFFINS

1. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

FINAL STEP: SERVE AND ENJOY

1. Garnish: Once the muffins have cooled slightly, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve: Serve the Cheesy Sausage Muffins warm, or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a hearty lunch.