If you have a soft spot for breakfast flavors that perfectly blend sweet and savory, then you are absolutely going to love this McGriddle Bites Recipe. These little pockets of joy pack all the goodness of a classic McGriddle into bite-sized morsels, combining fluffy pancake batter with hearty sausage and melty cheddar cheese. They are easy to make, fun to share, and guaranteed to brighten up any morning with their delightful mix of textures and a gentle kiss of maple syrup sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This McGriddle Bites Recipe uses just a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully to create a breakfast treat that’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to add just the right texture, sweetness, or savory note that makes every bite memorable.
- Breakfast sausage (8 oz): Provides a savory, juicy foundation packed with rich, meaty flavor that balances the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Pancake mix (1 cup): The base for these bites, offering a light, fluffy texture to cradle the fillings perfectly.
- Maple syrup (1 tablespoon in batter plus extra to drizzle): Adds a subtle sweetness that infuses the pancakes with that classic McGriddle taste.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts inside to deliver gooey, tangy goodness, enhancing every bite with creamy richness.
- Milk (¼ cup): Helps make the pancake batter smooth and tender for the softest texture.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Used to grease the muffin tin to ensure each McGriddle bite pops out easily and has a slight buttery crisp on the edges.
How to Make McGriddle Bites Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium and cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and thoroughly cooked. Be sure to crumble the sausage into small pieces as it cooks, so every bite has a perfect meaty texture. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the pancake batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
Mix your pancake batter according to the package instructions, whether that’s with water, milk, or eggs. Stir in one tablespoon of maple syrup to give the batter a subtle, sweet undertone that will make these bites truly shine with that signature McGriddle flavor.
Step 3: Grease the Mini Muffin Tin
Generously grease your mini muffin tin with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial to ensure your McGriddle bites release easily from the pan and develop a slight crispness on the edges, adding to their appeal.
Step 4: Assemble the Bites
Pour the pancake batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Then, add a spoonful of the cooked sausage crumbles and sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each. This layering locks in savory surprise inside every bite.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop the tin into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for a golden hue on top and check that the batter is fully cooked through. Timing is everything here to keep the bites moist and prevent over-drying.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the McGriddle bites cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. If you want to kick up the sweetness, drizzle some warm maple syrup on top for an extra special touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve McGriddle Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions provide a wonderful contrast, cutting through the richness with a fresh, aromatic pop. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of maple syrup can add a hint of indulgence that perfectly complements the bites.
Side Dishes
Pair McGriddle Bites with fresh fruit salad, like berries or sliced oranges, to bring a burst of natural sweetness and brightness to your plate. For a heartier option, crispy hash browns or a simple green salad offer a wonderful balance and variety of textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bites on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic brunch feel, or stack them in a fun tower with toothpicks for easy, grab-and-go party snacks. You can also arrange them in a waffle basket lined with a warm cloth to keep them cozy and inviting at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover McGriddle Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They maintain their moistness and flavor well, making them ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks in the days to come.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bites later, freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and ensures you can grab exactly how many you need at a time. They freeze beautifully for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat McGriddle Bites in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to bring back that freshly-baked crispness. Either way, they warm up quickly and retain deliciousness, making reheating a breeze.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a milder, nutty flavor. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well to keep that gooey surprise inside.
Is there a vegetarian version of this McGriddle Bites Recipe?
Yes! Swap the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a tasty vegetarian twist that still captures the savory essence.
Can I make these without maple syrup?
You can omit the maple syrup if you prefer less sweetness, but the syrup is key to achieving the authentic McGriddle taste. Consider substituting with honey or a mild fruit syrup for a similar effect.
What kind of pancake mix works best?
Any standard pancake mix will do! Choose your favorite brand or a gluten-free option if needed. Just follow the package instructions and add the maple syrup to the batter as suggested for best results.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales up easily. You might need to bake in batches or use multiple muffin tins to accommodate all the bites at once, but it’s perfect for brunch parties or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a delicious and fun breakfast to wow your family or friends, the McGriddle Bites Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little bites capture all the charm and flavor of the beloved McGriddle in a convenient, shareable size. Once you make them, they’re sure to become a favorite staple in your breakfast rotation, perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends alike.
Print
McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These homemade McGriddle Bites combine fluffy mini pancakes with savory breakfast sausage and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious, bite-sized breakfast treat. Perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch, they feature a subtle maple syrup sweetness and are baked to golden perfection in a mini muffin tin.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 package (8 oz) breakfast sausage
Pancake Batter
- 1 cup pancake mix
- Ingredients required on the box for 1 cup mix (typically ¼ cup milk and 1 egg)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ¼ cup milk (for pancake batter)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
- Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Pancake Batter: Follow the instructions on the pancake mix package to prepare the batter, substituting or adding ¼ cup milk if needed. Stir in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup into the batter to provide a subtle sweet flavor.
- Grease Muffin Tin: Use butter or cooking spray to grease a mini muffin tin thoroughly, ensuring the pancake bites do not stick during baking.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Pour the pancake batter into each muffin cup, filling about two-thirds full. Then, add a spoonful of the cooked sausage crumbles and a pinch of shredded cheddar cheese into each cup on top of the batter.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until the bites are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the bites to cool slightly before removing. Optionally, drizzle with additional maple syrup before serving for extra sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding to the batter to avoid any undercooked meat.
- You can substitute the pancake mix with your favorite homemade pancake batter recipe.
- Using a mini muffin tin creates perfectly sized bite portions ideal for snacking or breakfast on the go.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a microwave or oven for a quick meal.
- For a spicier version, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the batter or sausage mixture.
