McGriddle Bites Recipe: A Perfect Mini Breakfast You’ll Love
McGriddle Bites are the ultimate blend of sweet and savory breakfast flavors in one convenient bite-sized form. Combining fluffy pancake batter, savory sausage, melted cheese, and a touch of maple syrup, these mini muffins are not only delicious but also meal-prep friendly. They’re perfect for busy mornings, brunch spreads, or as a grab-and-go snack.
This article covers everything you need: the recipe, tools required, ingredients, nutrition facts, benefits, expert tips, FAQs, and why McGriddle Bites have become such a hit among breakfast lovers.
McGriddle Bites Recipe
Tools You’ll Need
- Mini muffin pan (24-count recommended)
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Whisk (for batter)
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing
- Skillet (for cooking sausage)
- Cooling rack (optional, but helps texture)
Ingredients
- 2 cups pancake mix (classic or buttermilk)
- 1 ½ cups water or milk (adjust for batter consistency)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (use real maple for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon butter or nonstick spray (for greasing muffin tin)
Optional additions:
- Pinch of cinnamon for pancake mix
- Jalapeños for spice
- Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for variation
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin pan with butter or nonstick spray.
- Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the batter by mixing pancake mix with milk or water. Whisk gently until just combined.
- Fold in sausage, cheese, and maple syrup into the batter. Mix lightly to avoid overworking.
- Fill muffin cups almost to the top with the mixture using a spoon or scoop.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and firm in the center.
- Cool slightly on a rack and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per 2 Bites, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Total Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
Values may vary depending on sausage type, cheese, and syrup used.
Benefits of McGriddle Bites
- Quick & Convenient: Ideal for busy mornings or school lunches.
- Balanced Flavor: The sweet maple and savory sausage combination is highly satisfying.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfectly portioned for children and picky eaters.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Can be made in bulk, frozen, and reheated easily.
- Versatile: Works with different cheeses, plant-based sausage, or gluten-free pancake mix.
Expert Tips
- Use silicone trays for non-stick baking and easy release.
- Cool sausage first before adding to the batter—this prevents cheese from melting unevenly.
- Batch and freeze: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. They reheat in 30 seconds in the microwave.
- For crispier edges, bake a few minutes longer and let cool on a wire rack instead of the pan.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
- Add dipping options like maple syrup, honey butter, or spicy aioli.
- Pack them in lunchboxes as a protein-rich snack.
- Use them as part of a brunch board alongside croissants, bagels, and fresh juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make McGriddle Bites ahead of time?
Yes. Bake, cool, and store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat McGriddle Bites?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. A microwave works in 20–30 seconds.
Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes. Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or plant-based sausage.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free pancake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Do McGriddle Bites taste like McDonald’s McGriddles?
They capture the same sweet-savory profile but are more convenient and homemade.
Conclusion
McGriddle Bites combine the heartiness of pancakes, sausage, cheese, and maple syrup into a perfect bite-sized muffin. With simple tools and a short prep time, you can create a breakfast that is freezer-friendly, versatile, and ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a quick morning bite, a kid-approved lunchbox addition, or a creative brunch idea, these bites are a reliable favorite.
Adding McGriddle Bites to your meal rotation means you’ll always have a wholesome, satisfying option at your fingertips.
