If you love the irresistible combination of sweet and savory breakfast flavors, you are going to fall head over heels for this McGriddle Bites Recipe. These delightful little bites capture everything you adore about classic McGriddles—fluffy pancake pockets, savory breakfast sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and a hint of maple syrup all baked into perfect, golden mini muffins. They are ideal for a crowd, a fun brunch, or even an on-the-go breakfast that still delivers big flavor and comfort. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to morning treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this McGriddle Bites Recipe so easy and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—pancake mix for that fluffy base, savory sausage adding that hearty, meaty punch, cheddar cheese bringing a creamy tang, and maple syrup tying it all together with its sweet warmth.
- Hungry Jack Pancake Mix (2 cups): Provides the fluffy, tender texture that’s essential for that authentic McGriddle feel.
- Water (1 ½ cups): The perfect amount to mix the pancake batter smoothly without making it too runny.
- Breakfast sausage (1 lb): Adds savory depth and a satisfying protein boost—brown it well for maximum flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the batter creating cheesy pockets that delight every bite.
- Maple syrup (¼ cup): Infuses a subtle but irresistible sweetness that balances the sausage’s savoriness beautifully.
How to Make McGriddle Bites Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by browning the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked and nicely caramelized on the edges. Once done, drain the excess grease thoroughly to prevent the batter from becoming oily. Set the sausage aside — this savory star will soon blend perfectly into our batter.
Step 2: Make the Batter
Next, follow the pancake mix package instructions to create your batter, using the 1 ½ cups of water specified. Once your batter is smooth and ready, fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and the maple syrup. This step transforms the classic pancake batter into a flavor-packed mixture bursting with sweet and savory goodness.
Step 3: Bake Your McGriddle Bites
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin pan to prevent sticking. Spoon the batter evenly into each muffin cup—filling them up but leaving a little space so they can rise nicely. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The result? Bite-sized McGriddles that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and completely irresistible.
How to Serve McGriddle Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these McGriddle Bites, consider a light drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like chives for a fresh contrast. A dollop of creamy butter or a smear of cream cheese can also add luxurious richness, making each bite a little celebration of flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these bites with some fresh fruit like berries or orange slices to brighten your plate and keep breakfast balanced. A crisp side salad or simple greens dressed lightly with lemon also make attractive, healthy companions to the richness of the McGriddle Bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch table that wows, arrange your McGriddle Bites on a platter with mini serving bowls of maple syrup, butter, and even a savory sausage gravy. You can also skewer a few bites with small decorative picks for easy, mess-free munching. These fun presentations turn a simple recipe into a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover McGriddle Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them a great option for prepping breakfasts in advance or enjoying as a quick snack later on.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled McGriddle Bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month, meaning you can enjoy these bites anytime you want without sacrificing freshness.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes until warm and slightly crisp again. You can also microwave them, but the oven method keeps them from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for the McGriddle Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional and flavorful, you can substitute with turkey sausage, spicy sausage, or even diced ham depending on your preference. Just make sure it’s cooked and drained well before mixing.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the pancake mix for a gluten-free pancake mix variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so this adaptation works well.
Can I add other cheeses instead of cheddar?
Definitely. Cheddar provides a nice sharpness, but cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack can offer different flavor profiles and melt wonderfully inside these bites.
How large are the McGriddle Bites?
They are made in mini muffin pans, so each bite is roughly the size of a traditional mini muffin—perfectly snackable and easy to pop in your mouth or pack for lunch.
Can I make these on the stovetop instead of baking?
While baking ensures even cooking and a nice golden crust, you could theoretically cook spoonfuls of batter in a greased skillet as small pancakes, but the texture and shape will differ from the classic McGriddle Bites style.
Final Thoughts
This McGriddle Bites Recipe truly captures the magic of a beloved favorite in an easy, shareable, and wonderfully flavorful form. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a hearty breakfast treat, these bites are pure joy baked up and ready to brighten your morning. I encourage you to give them a try—you just might find your new breakfast obsession.
Print
McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These McGriddle Bites are a delicious breakfast snack combining fluffy pancake batter, savory breakfast sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of maple syrup, all baked to golden perfection in a mini muffin pan. Perfect for a grab-and-go morning treat or a crowd-pleasing brunch appetizer.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix
- 1 ½ cups water
Filling
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Cook Sausage: Brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain the excess grease thoroughly and set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.
- Make Batter: Prepare the pancake batter by mixing the Hungry Jack Pancake Mix with 1 ½ cups of water according to the package instructions. Once the batter is smooth, gently fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and maple syrup until evenly combined.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan to prevent sticking. Spoon the prepared batter into each muffin cup, filling them almost to the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool briefly. Serve warm with extra maple syrup on the side for dipping to enhance their sweet and savory flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and drained well to avoid greasy bites.
- Use a mini muffin pan to achieve the perfect bite-sized portions.
- For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the batter.
- These bites reheat well in a toaster oven or microwave for a quick breakfast.
- Maple syrup can be adjusted to taste if you prefer more or less sweetness.
