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Looking for bite-sized breakfast sandwiches that're super simple? These McGriddle Bites nail that perfect sweet-savory balance and they're fantastic when you need to feed lots of people quickly. Each one packs fluffy pancake goodness, gooey cheese, savory sausage, and that wonderful maple taste that makes them so darn addictive.
I came up with these when I needed to feed a bunch of hungry relatives during a family get-together. Now my family won't let me show up to brunch without them. Between us, I think they taste even better cold from the fridge the day after.
Delicious Components
- Maple syrup: Brings that breakfast sweetness throughout. Try using dark amber stuff for maximum flavor punch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates pockets of melty goodness inside. I typically go for extra-sharp to really make them pop.
- Breakfast sausage: Adds that savory, juicy element. Grab quality bulk sausage for the tastiest outcome.
- Water: Helps everything come together smoothly. Using chilled, filtered water makes them fluffier.
- Pancake mix: Creates that soft, airy texture we all love. The just-add-water type works best and keeps things easy.
Easy Instructions
- Cook and Dig In:
- Stick the pan in your oven for around 12 to 15 minutes. Look for golden-brown tops and when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let them sit for a few minutes before taking them out. They're best eaten warm, with or without extra syrup drizzled on top.
- Prep Your Tray:
- Heat your oven to 400°F. Coat a mini muffin tin generously with cooking spray or butter. Make sure to fill each cup completely for the best little domes.
- Mix in Goodies:
- Carefully stir your cooked sausage, cheese, and maple syrup into the batter. Use a spatula and make sure every scoop has a bit of everything in it.
- Mix Your Batter:
- Combine pancake mix and cold water in a large bowl. Stir just until combined. You want the mix somewhat thick—don't stir too much!
- Brown the Sausage:
- Crumble sausage into small chunks in a heated pan. Cook until browned, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain off excess grease and let it cool slightly before using.
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I always reach for the darkest maple syrup when making these because it takes me right back to weekend breakfasts at my grandparents' house. My younger brother claims he can smell them baking before he's even gotten out of bed.
Storage Suggestions
After your McGriddle Bites cool down, store them in a sealed container in your fridge for up to four days. Pop them in the microwave or oven for a quick warm-up when you're in a rush. Want to keep them longer? Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then put them in freezer bags for up to two months. Just warm them up whenever you get a craving.
Mix-and-Match Options
Not into pork? Switch to turkey or chicken sausage instead. Some crumbled cooked bacon works great too if you like smokier flavors. Don't have cheddar? Try using Monterey Jack or spice things up with pepper jack. Any just-add-water pancake mix will work fine—just avoid the kinds that need eggs or milk added, as they'll mess up the texture.
Yummy Serving Ideas
Set out a small dish of maple syrup for dipping or add some fresh fruit on the side for balance. They pair great with a side of scrambled eggs or a dollop of Greek yogurt. If you're hosting, lay out various toppings and let everyone customize their own bites.
Where They Came From
The McGriddle originally turned pancakes, sausage, cheese, and egg into one handy breakfast item. These smaller versions bring that magic to your kitchen and they're ideal for sharing. They capture that classic American mix of sweet and salty in every tiny bite.
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When you want something quick and tasty for breakfast, give these McGriddle Bites a try. Just bake a batch and you're all set to eat!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I try a different sausage?
Sure thing! Pick whatever type of breakfast sausage suits you best—spicy, mild, or turkey all work.
- → How do I store them for later?
Cool them first, then store in a sealed container in the fridge. Eat them within three days.
- → Can I freeze these bites?
Absolutely! Let them cool, pack them in a freezer bag, and freeze. Reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them.
- → Can I prep them in advance?
Sure, bake them the day before and refrigerate them. They’ll heat up in no time and taste great.
- → What pairs nicely with these bites?
Serve them with syrup for dipping, fresh fruit on the side, or even scrambled eggs for a full meal.