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Easy Homemade McGriddle breakfast sandwiches satisfy that craving for a sweet and savory handheld meal that feels both special and incredibly cozy. Pancakes infused with real maple flavor cradle layers of sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and bacon. Making these at home means you can tweak every layer so your breakfast fits your mood—plus, no waiting in the drive-thru.
I first started making these on weekends when my family wanted something fun but homemade. They have quickly become the most requested breakfast in our house, especially on lazy Sundays.
Ingredients
- Eggs: add creaminess and protein to the sandwich use large fresh eggs for best results
- Milk: helps make the eggs and pancakes tender choose whole milk for richer flavor
- Garlic powder: seasons the eggs and deepens the overall flavor profile look for a fresh batch for strongest taste
- Butter: keeps eggs from sticking to the pan and adds richness go for unsalted and good quality
- All purpose flour: forms the base of fluffy pancakes measure with care for the right texture
- Baking powder: makes pancakes rise so they are not dense always check your baking powder is still fresh
- Maple syrup: brings signature sweetness to the pancakes real maple syrup elevates the flavor
- Breakfast sausage: delivers that classic McGriddle taste choose a flavorful sausage or make your own
- Cheese: melts over the hot layers for a creamy finish try American or cheddar for best melt and taste
- Optional bacon: brings a crispy crunch and smoky flavor select thick cut for more chew
- Salt and pepper: control seasoning in both the eggs and pancakes use fresh ground for the best bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage Patties:
- Form four patties from your ground sausage and heat a skillet over medium high. Cook the patties for around three minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. If making bacon add it now in the same pan for extra flavor and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Scrambled Eggs:
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk with milk and garlic powder plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper until it looks pale yellow and frothy. Melt butter in a nonstick pan over medium low then pour in a quarter of the mixture letting it cook undisturbed until the edges are set. Gently flip and cook the other side then fold into a square and set aside. Repeat until you have four omelet squares.
- Prepare the Pancakes:
- Combine flour milk melted butter an egg baking powder maple syrup and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Whisk to a smooth batter. Heat a lightly buttered skillet and pour out small pancake rounds using about three tablespoons of batter per pancake. When you see bubbles on top flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat until you have eight pancakes.
- Assemble the McGriddles:
- Take a pancake and layer it with cheese then a sausage patty then an egg square then bacon if using and top with another pancake. Repeat to assemble all four sandwiches pressing gently so everything holds together.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve these sandwiches while still warm so the cheese is gooey and the pancakes are soft and sweet. Add sides or toppings as you like. Try with coffee and fresh fruit for the full experience.
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I always look forward to maple syrup in the pancakes. My kids love dunking the finished McGriddle into extra syrup and we have made it a fun weekend tradition to get creative with add ins.
Storage Tips
Wrap leftover sandwiches individually in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage keep wrapped sandwiches in a freezer bag and freeze for up to one month. To reheat microwave for one minute or reheat in the oven at low temperature to revive that just made flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch in turkey or plant based sausage if you want a lighter or vegetarian version. For the pancakes try swapping half the flour for whole wheat or even using a high protein pancake mix to boost nutrition. Non dairy milk and vegan butter will also work in the batter and eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve McGriddles with sliced fruit or berries for a bright fresh side. For a crowd lay out toppings like avocado hot sauce and extra cheese so everyone can customize their sandwich. They also go well with crispy hash browns for a truly classic breakfast plate.
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Cultural and Historical Context
The McGriddle rose to fame as a drive thru favorite and quickly became known for its sweet and savory blend. Making it at home lets you experiment with the flavors and ensures your breakfast sandwich avoids artificial additives. Bringing this diner inspired treat into your own kitchen is a fun way to enjoy an American breakfast staple.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make fluffy pancake buns?
Use a batter with flour, baking powder, milk, egg, and maple syrup for light texture. Cook on a buttered skillet until golden and bubbly, then flip and finish until set.
- → Can I use other meats besides sausage?
Yes! Swap in turkey, chicken, plant-based sausage, bacon, or ham for a twist on classic flavors.
- → What cheese works best for these sandwiches?
American or cheddar cheese melt smoothly and complement the sweet-salty flavor balance beautifully.
- → How can I add vegetables to these sandwiches?
Fold sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers into the eggs before assembling for extra nutrition and taste.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store assembled sandwiches in the fridge or freezer. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven until warmed through and melty.
- → Is it possible to make ahead for busy mornings?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble ahead, then simply reheat for a quick, satisfying breakfast anytime.