Mornings can be hectic. Between getting ready for work, helping kids prepare for school, and planning your day, breakfast often gets overlooked. But what if you could start your day with a warm, satisfying meal—without spending hours in the kitchen?
Enter the Homemade McGriddle: a mouthwatering blend of fluffy pancake buns, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a golden egg. Inspired by the fast-food favorite, this version is healthier, more affordable, and easy to prep ahead.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning your weekday meals, this recipe delivers the perfect grab-and-go breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Quick to Make: Ready in 30 minutes or less
-
Customizable: Tweak ingredients to fit your needs
-
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for freezing and reheating
-
Sweet & Savory Combo: Pancakes + syrup + bacon + cheese = flavor explosion
Ingredients
Makes 4 McGriddles
For the Pancake Buns:
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 tbsp sugar
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
1/2 tsp baking soda
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
-
1 egg
-
1 tbsp melted butter
-
1 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
For the Filling:
-
4 eggs
-
4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
-
8 strips of cooked bacon (or 4 sausage patties)
-
Butter or oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Pancake Buns
-
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and maple syrup.
-
Combine wet and dry ingredients. Mix gently—don’t overmix!
-
Heat a greased non-stick skillet over medium heat.
-
Pour batter into round molds or mason jar lids to form perfect circles.
-
Cook until bubbles appear, then flip. Cook until golden brown.
2. Cook the Eggs
-
Use a round mold to shape each egg.
-
Fry until whites are fully set. Keep yolks slightly soft, or cook through if preferred.
3. Prepare the Bacon
-
Cook bacon until crisp and drain on paper towels.
-
Alternatively, use sausage patties.
4. Assemble the McGriddles
-
Start with one pancake bun.
-
Add a slice of cheese, followed by a cooked egg and bacon/sausage.
-
Top with the second pancake bun.
-
Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor (optional).
Pro Tips for Success
-
Use silicone egg rings for clean, stackable shapes.
-
Make a big batch and freeze individually for grab-and-go meals.
-
Switch up the protein with turkey bacon, ham, or a veggie patty.
-
Try new cheeses: gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss.
Variations
-
Keto-Friendly: Almond flour pancakes, no syrup
-
Vegetarian: Plant-based sausage and egg
-
Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the eggs
-
Kid-Friendly: Make mini versions with silver dollar pancakes
Nutrition Info (Per Sandwich)
-
Calories: 400–500
-
Protein: ~20g
-
Carbs: ~35g
-
Fat: ~25g
Note: Values may vary based on brands and ingredients used.
Make-Ahead & Storage
-
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Freeze: Wrap individually in foil or parchment, then place in a freezer bag (up to 2 months).
-
Reheat: Microwave 60–90 seconds or use a toaster oven/air fryer for crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and double-check labels.
2. What’s the best cheese for McGriddles?
American cheese melts best, but cheddar, gouda, and Swiss are great too.
3. Can I prep the pancake batter ahead?
Yes, but use within 24 hours and stir before cooking.
4. How do I keep them from getting soggy when reheated?
Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best texture.
5. Are they healthier than fast food?
Definitely. You control the ingredients and can cut out unnecessary preservatives.
6. Can I add veggies?
Of course! Add spinach, tomatoes, or sautéed onions for more nutrition.
7. Are there dairy-free options?
Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese.
8. Can I use sausage instead of bacon?
Yes—sausage patties are a classic choice.
9. Are these kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Cut into smaller portions for little hands.
10. How do I pack this for on-the-go?
Wrap in foil or parchment, then place in a thermal container or lunchbox.
Final Thoughts
With this Homemade McGriddle Recipe, you no longer have to choose between fast and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for one or meal prepping for the week, this recipe helps you fuel up with flavor—without the drive-thru.
So next time you’re rushing out the door, remember:
A better McGriddle starts at home.