
Bite-sized McGriddle Bites hit the spot when you're craving everything you love about a Sausage McGriddle, but want it quick and easy. These mini treats are loaded with gooey cheese, golden brown sausage pieces, soft pancake goodness, and just a dash of sweet maple. You'll barely get them out of the pan before the family grabs them up—and they freeze beautifully, so you've got grab-and-go breakfast (or snack time) covered for busy days.
I first whipped these up because my crew wanted that fast-food breakfast taste but we didn't want to leave the house. They’re now everyone's favorite—they're always gone way sooner than I think. My little one would eat these every day if she could.
Tasty Ingredients
- Cheddar cheese: Tossed in for lots of melty flavor. Sharp cheddar is awesome—just shred it yourself for best taste.
- Maple syrup: Gives these bites that signature McGriddle sweet kick. Go for real maple syrup, and feel free to keep a little extra on hand for dunking.
- Water: Helps make the batter just right. Cold filtered water is the way to go.
- Hungry Jack pancake mix: Makes things fast and fluffy. Use a mix you always like.
- Breakfast sausage: Packs a punch of savory flavor and protein. Try to pick a sausage that's tasty but not super fatty, so everything bakes up just right.
Easy Instructions
- Time to Serve:
- Give them a few minutes to cool so they're easy to pick up. Warm is best—especially with a little syrup on the side for dipping.
- Bake:
- Pop your tin in an oven heated to 400 degrees. Bake them till the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out without goo. Should take about 12-15 minutes. The sides will look done and the middles will puff up.
- Fill the Tin:
- Spoon your batter into a sprayed mini muffin tin. Fill each spot almost to the top, but not spilling over—that way, they bake nice and even.
- Add Cheese and Sausage:
- Now, fold in the shredded cheddar and cooked sausage. Mix gently with your hands so everything spreads out without smooshing the batter.
- Mix the Batter:
- In your biggest bowl, gently mix the pancake mix, water, and maple syrup. Stir till you don’t see dry spots. Don’t whip it—stop as soon as it comes together so you keep the bites soft.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Break up the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook till there’s no pink left and bits are crumbly. Drain on some paper towel so you don’t get greasy bites.

That little bit of maple in these is what makes my kitchen smell amazing every time. My husband still laughs about the first time we took them to a get-together—folks grabbed them so quick, there weren’t any left to bring home.
Save for Later
Let the bites cool all the way. Store them sealed up in the fridge for up to five days. If you’re planning ahead, set them on a tray and freeze. Once solid, toss into a zip bag and keep frozen up to two months. To reheat, zap a few in the microwave or warm them at 350 degrees for five minutes.
Swap Options
Try Swiss or pepper jack instead of cheddar if you want to change up the cheese. Not a fan of sweet? Cut down the maple, or skip the extra syrup for dipping. Bacon instead of sausage (or turkey sausage) is totally fair game if you want to lighten it up.

Ways to Enjoy
Pair them with scrambled eggs and sliced fruit for breakfast or tuck in a lunchbox for later. Perfect sidekick to coffee or dip in maple syrup at brunch. My kids love munching them as snacks, and they’re also tasty with spicy honey if you want to take it up a notch.
Why It’s Nostalgic
If you grew up with those classic American fast food breakfasts, this homemade version brings the same comforting flavors. That sausage and pancake combo—plus a splash of maple—makes everyone think of lazy weekends or road trips.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → What keeps McGriddle Bites soft?
Be gentle when you stir. As soon as the batter comes together, stop mixing. Mixing too much makes them heavy.
- → Is it okay to freeze these bites?
Totally! Let them cool down, freeze on a tray, and heat back up in your microwave or oven when you’re hungry.
- → Which cheese tastes best for these?
Sharp cheddar nails that classic flavor, but try Colby or Monterey Jack for something new.
- → Are there substitutes for breakfast sausage?
If you want to switch it up, use turkey sausage or even veggie crumbles instead of regular breakfast sausage.
- → Can I prep them in advance?
Of course! Make them ahead, stash in the fridge or freezer, and warm up whenever you need a quick breakfast or snack.
- → What's the best way to serve them?
Warm is best. Try dipping them in maple syrup for an awesome sweet and savory combo.