Savory Muffins

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or generously spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Mix dry ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add mix-ins
   Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped chives, thyme, diced bell pepper, and bacon (if using). Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Combine wet ingredients
   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined.
5. Make the batter
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold the mixture together just until combined. Be careful not to overmix - the batter should be slightly lumpy.
6. Fill muffin cups
   Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. If desired, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top of each muffin.
7. Bake the muffins
   Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Cool and serve
   Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.