Easy Muffin Melts

Directions

1. 1
   In a large skillet, cook the sausage thoroughly, until no pink remains. Add the minced onion (or minced garlic) and basil, and mix well. Set the sausage mixture aside.
2. 2
   Spread about 3/4 tablespoon of the Old English cheese across the top of each muffin half. Place the muffin halves on an ungreased baking sheet. Spread a large spoonful of the sausage mixture evenly across the top of the cheese layer of each muffin half.
3. 3
   Bake the appetizers in a 350 degree oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the English muffins just begin to toast and are heated through.
4. 4
   These can be served as a warm snack right out of the oven, or after being cooled completely.
5. 5
   OPTIONAL STEP: For added flavor, you can sprinkle the tops of each baked appetizer with chopped green onion or minced olives, mushrooms, or pimiento. Or for a more zesty flavor top each appetizer with a thin red pepper strip.
6. 6
   FOR SERVING SIZES: If served whole, the recipe will yield 12 large appetizer snacks. Or you can cut each appetizer in half, which will yield 24 (half circle shape) appetizers. Or you can cut each half-circle piece in half again, which will yield 48 mini wedge-shaped appetizers.