McGriddle Bites Recipe
If you’re craving that perfect blend of sweet and savory in a handheld breakfast treat, this McGriddle Bites Recipe is going to be your new favorite morning ritual. Imagine fluffy mini pancakes infused with just the right touch of maple syrup, studded with savory breakfast sausage, and melted cheddar cheese inside each bite-sized morsel. These little bundles are a game-changer, combining all the classic flavors of a McGriddle but made easy at home, perfect for sharing with family or meal prepping for busy mornings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this McGriddle Bites Recipe is wonderfully simple because the ingredients are straightforward and every single one plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color you’ll love.
- Breakfast sausage (8 oz): Use good quality sausage for rich, savory flavor and juicy texture.
- Pancake mix (1 cup): The base of your batter; follow package instructions for the fluffiest mini pancakes.
- Maple syrup (1 tablespoon in batter, plus extra for drizzling): Adds that subtle sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory filling.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully inside each bite, providing a creamy, tangy richness.
- Milk (¼ cup): Keeps the pancake batter smooth and light for perfect rising.
- Butter (1 tablespoon for greasing the pan): Ensures your bites don’t stick and adds a touch of buttery goodness.
How to Make McGriddle Bites Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by cooking the breakfast sausage over medium heat in a skillet until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. This ensures every bite is packed with savory sausage pieces. Once done, set the sausage aside and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
Follow the pancake mix’s package instructions, but don’t forget to stir in one tablespoon of maple syrup; this addition lends a gentle sweetness that mimics the classic McGriddle flavor. Use the ¼ cup of milk to create a smooth, pourable batter perfect for mini servings.
Step 3: Grease and Fill the Mini Muffin Tin
Butter or spray your mini muffin tin to prevent sticking. Fill each cup about two-thirds full with your pancake batter—this is important to leave room for the sausage and cheese without overflowing during baking.
Step 4: Add Sausage and Cheese
On top of the batter in each muffin cup, add a spoonful of the cooked sausage crumbles followed by a pinch of shredded cheddar cheese. These layers create the delightful surprise inside each bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bites are golden and set. The baking develops the fluffy pancake texture, melts the cheese just right, and locks in all those flavors.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow your McGriddle Bites to cool just enough to handle. For a final signature touch, drizzle extra maple syrup over the top for that sweet-savory kick that makes these bites irresistible.
How to Serve McGriddle Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes go a long way! Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of maple syrup can ramp up the sweetness if that’s your vibe.
Side Dishes
Pair your McGriddle Bites with fresh fruit, like berries or sliced oranges, to brighten up your plate and add a juicy contrast. A cup of hot coffee or freshly brewed tea makes the perfect companion to this breakfast treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try skewering the bites with toothpicks for easy party appetizers or stacking them on a platter with alternating layers of fruit and mini pancakes for a festive brunch centerpiece. They’re also fabulous stuffed into warm wraps with some greens for an on-the-go meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place your McGriddle Bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This makes them a perfect quick breakfast or snack throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
These bites freeze wonderfully! Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep fresh for up to two months, making meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
For best results, reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften them more than desired.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage can be a leaner option and still delivers plenty of flavor. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and crumbled nicely before adding it to the batter.
Is it okay to use homemade pancake batter instead of mix?
Yes, if you prefer making pancake batter from scratch, go for it! Just be sure to include the maple syrup in your batter to keep that signature taste intact.
Can I make these bites gluten-free?
You can! Use a gluten-free pancake mix and ensure your sausage is gluten-free too. These little tweaks let everyone enjoy McGriddle Bites without worry.
How do I prevent the bites from sticking to the muffin tin?
Greasing each cup thoroughly with butter or a non-stick spray is essential. You can also line the muffin cups with mini silicone liners for hassle-free removal.
Can I add other cheeses or toppings?
Definitely! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or green onions into the mix for a personalized twist on this classic recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyous about biting into these homemade McGriddle Bites Recipe nuggets — they bring that delightful breakfast combo right to your kitchen with ease and fun. Whether for a weekend brunch or a busy weekday breakfast, these bites promise smiles and satisfaction in every single batch. Give them a try, and you’ll soon see why they’ve become such a beloved favorite!
Print
McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
McGriddle Bites are a delightful bite-sized breakfast treat combining fluffy pancake batter, savory breakfast sausage, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. These savory-sweet mini muffins make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or brunch item, offering all the flavors of a classic McGriddle in a convenient homemade version.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 package (8 oz) breakfast sausage
Pancake Batter
- 1 cup pancake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, typically water or milk, eggs, etc.)
- ¼ cup milk (for pancake batter)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
- Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Pancake Batter: Following the package instructions for the pancake mix, combine the mix with the required ingredients, including ¼ cup milk and 1 tablespoon maple syrup to add a subtle sweetness to the batter.
- Grease Muffin Tin: Use butter or cooking spray to grease a mini muffin tin thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Pour the pancake batter evenly into the muffin cups until each is about two-thirds full. Then, add a spoonful of 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, or until the pancake bites turn golden and are cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the bites cool slightly before removing. Optionally, drizzle with additional maple syrup for extra sweetness before serving.
Notes
- Be sure not to overfill the muffin cups to avoid batter spilling over while baking.
- You can substitute breakfast sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- If you prefer, add a little extra cheese for cheesier bites.
- Allow the bites to cool briefly to firm up so they are easier to handle.
- These bites can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in a microwave or oven for a quick breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
