McGriddle Bites Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate breakfast treat that’s as fun to eat as it is crave-worthy, you simply have to try these McGriddle Bites. Imagine all the goodness of a classic breakfast sandwich—savory sausage, fluffy pancakes, gooey cheese, and a hint of maple sweetness—tucked inside golden, bite-sized muffins you can pop right in your mouth. They’re perfect for meal-prep mornings, brunch celebrations, or anytime the mood strikes for a handheld, crowd-pleasing delight. Trust me, once you make McGriddle Bites, you’ll want to keep a batch ready for whenever the breakfast craving hits!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of McGriddle Bites lies in their simplicity, but don’t be fooled—every ingredient plays a starring role in delivering incredible flavor and that unmistakable breakfast magic. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few handy tips for getting the most out of each component.

• 16 ounces breakfast sausage: Opt for a classic pork breakfast sausage for traditional flavor, but feel free to try turkey or plant-based sausage if you’re feeling adventurous!
• 2 cups Hungry Jack pancake mix: Using a good-quality pancake mix ensures these bites stay light and tender—Mix & brands that are slightly sweet work best.
• 1 1/2 cups water: Cold water helps keep the batter from getting overworked and tough; add a splash more if you want extra-moist bites.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus more for dipping): Pure maple syrup gives each bite that dreamy, sweet finish McGriddles are famous for—don’t skip it!
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): The cheese adds a melty, savory layer that complements the sausage perfectly; sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch.

How to Make McGriddle Bites

Step 1: Get the Oven and Pan Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). Grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or nonstick cooking spray, making sure you coat every nook and cranny—this ensures your McGriddle Bites pop out perfectly shaped and golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Place your favorite skillet over medium-high heat and toss in the breakfast sausage. Break it up as it cooks, stirring and crumbling until every morsel is browned and there’s no pink remaining. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate with a slotted spoon to drain off excess fat. This little step keeps your bites delicious, not greasy!

Step 3: Mix the Pancake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Hungry Jack pancake mix, water, and maple syrup. Stir gently until just combined—the secret here is to avoid over-mixing, which keeps the texture soft and fluffy rather than dense.

Step 4: Fold in Cheese and Sausage

Add the shredded cheddar and cooked sausage right into the batter, and give it a few quick folds. You want every bite to have a perfect combo of cheesy, meaty goodness, so make sure the mix is even but don’t overdo it.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Spoon the batter into your prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full (they’ll rise as they bake). Pop the tin in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the tops turn beautifully golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Serve With Maple Syrup

Let the McGriddle Bites cool for a minute or two, then serve them warm with extra maple syrup for dipping. They’re at their most magical fresh from the oven, but honestly, they’re irresistible at any temperature.

How to Serve McGriddle Bites

Garnishes

Elevate your platter by adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color, or dust the tops with a pinch of flaky sea salt. If you’re a true maple lover, try drizzling a tiny bit of warm maple syrup over each bite right before serving—it’s pure bliss.

Side Dishes

Pair McGriddle Bites with a side of fruit salad or crispy hash browns for a complete breakfast spread. They also go wonderfully with scrambled eggs and a tall glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice, making them ideal for everything from quick breakfasts to leisurely weekend brunches.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile McGriddle Bites high on a pretty serving platter with a bowl of warm maple syrup in the center for dipping, or create “skewers” by threading bites onto toothpicks for easy, grab-and-go party appetizers. For a cute breakfast box, tuck a few bites into a divided meal-prep container with fruit and nuts—the ultimate on-the-go treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

McGriddle Bites are just as fantastic the next day! Once they’ve completely cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. This makes them a lifesaver for quick breakfast or snacking moments all week long.

Freezing

If you want to keep McGriddle Bites on standby even longer, freezing is the way to go. Arrange cooled bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.

Reheating

To bring McGriddle Bites back to warm, melty goodness, pop them in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or reheat a batch in a 350ºF oven for about five minutes. For best results, let frozen bites thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, but you can microwave straight from the freezer in a pinch!

FAQs

Can I use homemade pancake mix instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Just use about 2 cups of your favorite homemade pancake mix. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary a bit, but that’s half the fun of kitchen experiments—and honestly, McGriddle Bites are pretty forgiving.

Are there any good cheese alternatives?

Yes! While cheddar brings a wonderful sharpness, you can try Colby Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorite shredded cheeses. Mixing up the cheese is a great way to make these bites your own.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Definitely. Use a gluten-free pancake mix in place of the regular one, and double-check that your sausage is gluten-free. That way, you can still enjoy McGriddle Bites without worry.

How do I keep the bites from sticking to the muffin tin?

Greasing the tin really well is key! If you have silicone mini muffin pans, those work wonders for easy release. Alternatively, you can use mini muffin liners, just be sure to spray them lightly with nonstick spray as well.

Can I add extra flavorings or mix-ins?

Definitely—think crumbled cooked bacon, finely chopped green onions, or even a hint of hot sauce mixed into the batter for a spicy kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative and truly make these McGriddle Bites your own signature breakfast treat!

Final Thoughts

There’s something downright magical about McGriddle Bites—the way they’re packed with bold, classic breakfast flavors in such an irresistibly portable form. Give them a try, swap in your favorite twists, and watch everyone rave. You might just find this recipe becomes your new breakfast obsession!

Print