Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the ground breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat, about 5-7 minutes, until browned. Drain excess grease.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

Gently fold in the cooked sausage and grated sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and pure maple syrup. Melt the unsalted butter, cool slightly, and stir it into the wet mixture.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; it's okay if there are lumps.

Line a muffin tin with liners or grease it. Distribute the batter into muffin cups, filling them to the top. Sprinkle extra cheddar on top if desired.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, until tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.