Savory Ham and Onion Muffins with Worcestershire and Thyme
These hearty savory muffins combine diced smoked ham with caramelized onions and a hint of Worcestershire sauce for deep, umami flavor. Fresh lemon thyme and parmesan cheese add aromatic complexity, while the tender crumb makes them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side with soup. The microwave technique for cooking the ham and onions saves time while ensuring the onions are perfectly wilted. These substantial muffins are excellent warm from the oven or at room temperature.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces smoked ham, diced smallcooked bacon1:1
Similar smoky flavor
- 1 onion, sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 ½ cups self raising flourall-purpose flour + baking powder2 1/2 cups flour + 2 1/2 tsp baking powderadds gluten
Standard substitution
Full guide → - 1 ¼ cups milk
- ⅓ cup light olive oil
- 1 large egg
- fresh grated pepper
- 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 sprigs fresh lemon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- 1
Cook ham and onions with Worcestershire sauce and pepper in microwave on high, stirring occasionally until onions are wilted
- 2
Sift flour into a mixing bowl and make a well in the center
- 3
Whisk egg, milk, oil and salt together and pour into flour
- 4
Mix gently until partially combined
- 5
Add in ham mixture and remaining ingredients
- 6
Fold through until smooth
- 7
Spoon into muffin tray and bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until tops brown and skewer comes out clean
- 8
Serve with cream cheese and black pepper or as desired
Tips
Microwave the ham and onion mixture until onions are fully wilted to prevent raw onion texture in the finished muffins
Don't overmix the batter once flour is added - fold gently to keep muffins tender
Check doneness with a skewer as oven times can vary; tops should be golden brown
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week
Can be made 1 day ahead and reheated gently in oven
Best served warm, excellent with cream cheese and black pepper
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix batter to avoid tough, dense muffins
Ensure ham and onions are fully cooked before adding to prevent soggy centers
Substitutions
Standard substitution
Full guide →Similar smoky flavor
FAQ
Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, wrap individually and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
What if I don't have self-raising flour?
Use 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour mixed with 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder as a substitute.
Can I make mini muffins instead?
Yes, reduce baking time to 15-20 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.