The Perfect Grab-and-Go Breakfast
Hola! I’ve always believed that breakfast should be both easy and exciting, even on the busiest mornings. Growing up in Florida, weekends meant waking up to the smell of pancakes, maple syrup, and sizzling sausage filling the kitchen.
These McGriddle Bites capture all those comforting flavors in one portable little muffin. Imagine mini pancakes stuffed with savory sausage and gooey cheddar, lightly sweetened with maple syrup. They’re soft, golden, and perfect for when you want something delicious on the go.
Whether it’s a school morning, a tailgate breakfast, or a quick snack, these bite-sized treats make everyone happy before the day begins.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Servings: | 12 muffins |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Course: | Breakfast |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Calories: | 150 kcal each |
Why You’ll Love These McGriddle Bites
- Quick & Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for on-the-go mornings.
- Kid-Approved: Sweet, savory, and fun to eat — even picky eaters love them.
- Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prep and easy reheating throughout the week.
- Balanced Flavors: Maple syrup adds sweetness that perfectly complements the sausage and cheddar.
- Versatile: Enjoy warm for breakfast or pack as a mid-morning snack.
McGriddle Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
McGriddle Bites are bite-sized muffins made with pancake mix, savory sausage, cheddar cheese, and a hint of maple syrup. These sweet and salty breakfast treats are perfect for busy mornings or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (regular pork sausage)
- 2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix (just add water variety)
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded from block cheese
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeños
- 1/2 cup blueberries
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
3. In a large bowl, combine pancake mix, water, and maple syrup. Stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
5. Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with batter.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool slightly before serving warm with maple syrup for dipping.
Notes
Use fully cooked sausage to ensure even baking.
Avoid overmixing the batter for light, fluffy muffins.
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the batter.
Freeze leftovers in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Meal Prep
- Method: Baked, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 25
Ingredients List
For the Muffins
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (regular pork sausage)
- 2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix (just add water variety)
- 1 cup water (filtered or tap)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded from block cheese
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 cup blueberries (for a sweet contrast)
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Breakfast sausage | Use regular or maple-flavored sausage for the best flavor balance. |
| Pancake mix | Choose a mix that only requires water to keep it simple. |
| Maple syrup | Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and flavor depth. |
| Cheddar cheese | Shred from a block for the best melt and creamy texture. |
| Jalapeños | Add sparingly for mild spice that enhances the sweetness. |
| Blueberries | Add fresh or frozen for a fun fruity twist. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for McGriddle Bites
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease and let cool slightly.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine pancake mix, water, and maple syrup. Stir just until combined — the batter should be slightly thick.
- Add the Good Stuff: Fold in the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about three-quarters full.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow muffins to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy with a drizzle of maple syrup for dipping if desired.
Chef’s Tips for the Perfect McGriddle Bites
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the muffins fluffy.
- Use Mini Muffin Tins: Perfect for portion control and quick cooking.
- Add a Touch of Sweet: Brush the tops lightly with maple syrup right out of the oven for a glossy finish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and freeze for later — they reheat beautifully.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar: Add diced jalapeños for a mild kick.
- Blueberry Maple: Swap sausage for blueberries for a sweet breakfast muffin.
- Turkey Sausage Version: Use lean turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Apple Cinnamon Twist: Add finely chopped apples and a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy fall flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve these muffins with a side of scrambled eggs, a fruit salad, or a steaming cup of coffee. They’re great for school mornings, road trips, or tailgate breakfasts. For an extra treat, serve with maple syrup or honey butter for dipping.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or microwave briefly if in a hurry.
Kitchen Wisdom
- Mix and Match: Use leftover sausage or even bacon crumbles.
- Bite-Sized Joy: These mini muffins make great lunchbox additions for kids.
- Keep Them Moist: Avoid overbaking to preserve the soft, pancake-like texture.
- Sweet and Savory Balance: Maple syrup drizzle brings all the flavors together.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven or air fryer until warm. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pancake mix?
Yes, just choose one that requires only water for best results.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pancake mix.
Do I have to use sausage?
No, you can use cooked bacon, ham, or even plant-based sausage crumbles.
Can I make full-size muffins?
Yes, bake them for 18–20 minutes instead of 12–15.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Definitely! Make a batch on Sunday and reheat throughout the week.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Pure maple syrup is classic, but honey mustard or spicy maple glaze also taste amazing.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 muffin |
| Calories: | 150 kcal |
| Protein: | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 15 g |
| Fat: | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat: | 3 g |
| Cholesterol: | 25 mg |
| Sodium: | 250 mg |
| Fiber: | 1 g |
| Sugar: | 2 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Author’s Note
These McGriddle Bites bring together everything I love about breakfast: sweetness, savoriness, and simplicity. They’re a family favorite in my house because they’re easy, portable, and just plain fun to eat. Whether you make them for meal prep or a weekend brunch, they’ll disappear fast — so you might want to double the recipe!
From My Kitchen to Yours
If you’re looking for a fun, easy breakfast that travels well, these McGriddle Bites are a must-try. They’re warm, filling, and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. For another great breakfast option, check out my Crème Brûlée French Toast — it’s the perfect sweet complement to these savory bites.
