Sausage Cheese Muffins

We had these at the TBC Women's Retreat this year (a few of our guys from church come up and cook all weekend for us. They love it; we have some excellent men cooks; and we save money vs catering! win/win/win!!). These are so good and they freeze really well, making an easy and quick breakfast to grab from the freezer and pop in the toaster oven as needed. Also makes a great appetizer for parties -- just cut into wedges and serve!

Ingredients:
1 pound sausage
1/4 teaspoon red pepper (optional)
1 stick butter
3 jars Old English cheese spread
12 English muffins, split

Directions:
Cook sausage, crumble, and drain well. Set aside to cool. Combine butter, cheese, and pepper. Mix until fluffy (I've used both a mixer and done this by hand; both work just as well). Spread on English muffin halves. Bake at 425* until bubbly and slightly brown; about 8 minutes.

Yields 24 muffins