Breakfast lovers, rejoice! If you’re a fan of McDonald’s famous McGriddle but want an easy, homemade version, these Mini McGriddle Bites are the perfect solution. Packed with fluffy pancake goodness, savory sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and a touch of maple syrup, they capture the sweet-and-savory magic in a bite-sized form. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy mornings, planning a brunch, or looking for a kid-friendly breakfast idea, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe a breeze.
• Portable & Mess-Free – Perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or breakfast on the go.
• Sweet & Savory Perfection – The best of both worlds in every bite.
• Kid-Approved – Little hands love these mini bites, and they’re easy to eat!
• Customizable – Easily switch up the flavors to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of these delicious Mini McGriddle Bites, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups pancake mix (e.g., Bisquick or your favorite brand)
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

Pro Tip: Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid artificial pancake syrups, which won’t provide the same rich, natural sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the breakfast sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix and water, whisking until smooth. Then, gently fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and maple syrup until evenly distributed.

4. Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter into each section of the mini muffin tin, filling about ¾ full to allow room for expansion while baking.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool & Serve

Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Serve warm with extra maple syrup for dipping, if desired.

Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Customization Ideas: Make It Your Own!

While the classic Mini McGriddle Bites are amazing as-is, you can customize them to your taste. Here are some fun variations to try:

Protein Swaps

• Use turkey sausage or bacon instead of traditional breakfast sausage.
• Swap out meat for plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Cheese Variations

• Try pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Use mozzarella for a milder, gooier bite.

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• Chopped green onions or chives for a fresh pop of flavor.
• A dash of cinnamon to enhance the maple sweetness.
• Jalapeño slices for a spicy twist.

How to Serve Mini McGriddle Bites

These little breakfast bites are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• On-the-Go Breakfast: Grab a few bites, wrap them in a napkin, and enjoy a mess-free meal.
• Brunch Buffet Addition: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and yogurt for a full spread.
• With Dipping Sauces: Pair with maple syrup, honey butter, or a side of sausage gravy for extra flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Snack: Pack them in school lunches for an easy, protein-packed treat.

Make-Ahead & Freezing Instructions

Want to save time in the mornings? These Mini McGriddle Bites are meal-prep friendly!

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Freeze: Place cooled bites in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 30–40 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute a gluten-free pancake mix for a delicious, GF-friendly version.

What’s the best way to prevent them from sticking?

Be sure to grease the muffin tin well or use silicone muffin liners for easy removal.

Can I use homemade pancake batter instead of mix?

Absolutely! Just ensure the batter is thicker than regular pancake batter to hold its shape in the muffin tin.

Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, but increase the baking time to 15–18 minutes since larger muffins take longer to cook through.

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