These protein-packed savory muffins are a game-changer for your meal prep routine – perfectly portable, incredibly satisfying, and bursting with cheesy goodness!
Table of Contents :
Why You’ll Love These Protein-Packed Savory Muffins
Have you been searching for a protein-rich breakfast or snack that doesn’t rely on protein powder? These High Protein Muffins with Turkey & Cheddar are my newest kitchen creation, and they’ve quickly become a family favorite!
I started with the base of my wildly popular Chocolate Chip Greek Yogurt Muffins (you know, the ones that consistently get 5-star reviews!) and gave them a delicious savory makeover. By removing all the sugar and sweet ingredients, while loading them up with protein from smoked turkey, sharp cheddar, and protein-rich Greek yogurt, I’ve created a muffin that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying.
These muffins are wonderfully soft, delightfully cheesy, and pack approximately 10 grams of protein per serving. They’re perfect for busy mornings, school lunches, post-workout refueling, or anytime you need a healthy, portable option. The best part? They store beautifully and freeze exceptionally well, so you can always have a batch ready to grab and go!
Ingredients You’ll Need for These Protein Muffins
Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – Provides the perfect structure for these hearty muffins
- Baking powder & baking soda – The leavening duo that ensures properly risen muffins
- Salt – Enhances all the savory flavors
- Spices – Garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth and complexity
Wet Ingredients
- Butter – Creates tender, moist muffins with rich flavor
- Plain Greek yogurt – The secret protein-boosting ingredient that keeps these muffins soft
- Milk – Adds moisture and helps create the perfect batter consistency
- Egg – Binds everything together while adding additional protein
Savory Mix-Ins
- Chopped smoked turkey – Provides lean protein and savory flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for pockets of cheesy goodness
- Corn – Adds natural sweetness and texture contrast (completely optional but delicious!)
Pro Tip: Feel free to customize your mix-ins! Ham, green onions, jalapeños, and diced bell peppers are all fantastic options that work beautifully in these versatile muffins.
How to Make High Protein Savory Muffins
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Essentials
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your muffin tray by either lining with paper liners or lightly greasing with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Set this bowl aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, add ½ cup butter and microwave for about 20 seconds. Give it a stir, then microwave for another 15-20 seconds until almost completely melted. Add 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, ½ cup milk, and 1 egg to the melted butter. Gently stir until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or large spoon, stir gently until just combined. Remember: overmixing leads to tough muffins!
Step 5: Fold in the Savory Mix-Ins
Now for the star ingredients! Fold in 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup chopped smoked turkey, and ¾ cup corn (if using). Mix gently to distribute throughout the batter. I always save a small handful of cheese to sprinkle on top of the muffins before baking!
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the batter. Top each muffin with a sprinkle of the reserved cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy, golden-brown finish.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are slightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before storing.
Baking Secret: While these muffins taste fantastic on day one, I personally find they’re even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together!
Expert Tips for Perfect Protein Muffins
- Don’t overmix the batter – Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep your muffins tender and soft
- Get creative with mix-ins – These muffins are incredibly versatile! Try diced ham instead of turkey, or add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting; freshly shredded works best
- Allow proper cooling time – This prevents condensation from making your muffins soggy
- Watch the baking time – Every oven is different, so start checking at 18 minutes
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Once completely cooled, store your muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating for Perfect Texture
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop a muffin in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brief warming makes them perfectly soft and brings out all the savory flavors.
Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep
These protein muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or place in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen in the microwave for a quick, protein-rich snack.
Nutritional Information
Per muffin (makes 14 muffins):
- Calories: 195kcal
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 44mg
- Sodium: 582mg
- Potassium: 114mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
High Protein Muffins with Turkey & Cheddar
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup smoked deli turkey or ham
- ¾ cup corn optional
Instructions
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup smoked deli turkey or ham
- ¾ cup corn (optional)
Notes
Author’s Top Recipe Picks :
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Enjoy these protein-packed savory muffins as part of your balanced meal plan! If you make this recipe, I’d be thrilled if you could take a moment to rate it below. Your feedback helps my little blog grow, and I truly appreciate your support!
Have you tried these protein muffins yet? What mix-ins did you use? Share your creative combinations in the comments below!
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