Italian Meatball and Parmesan Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups with cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and olive oil until well combined.

Step 4: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Stir until just combined; do not overmix. A few lumps in the batter are okay.

Step 5: Fold in the chopped Italian meatballs and chopped basil (if using) into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Step 7: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.