Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

Begin by browning the breakfast sausage. If you are using sausage in casings, remove the sausage from the casings and crumble into a skillet. Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. It's important to ensure the sausage is fully cooked for food safety. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This prevents the McGriddle Bites from becoming overly greasy. Set the cooked sausage aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix and water according to the directions on the box. Whisk the ingredients together until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough pancakes. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked and drained sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and maple syrup to the pancake batter. Gently stir the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense McGriddle Bites.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or oil. This will prevent the McGriddle Bites from sticking to the pan and make them easier to remove. Spoon the pancake batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup about 3/4 full. This will allow the bites to rise without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake the McGriddle Bites

Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the McGriddle Bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the muffin pan from the oven and let the McGriddle Bites cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from sticking and make them easier to remove. Serve warm with additional maple syrup for dipping, if desired.