Easy McGriddle Casserole Recipe: A Delicious Breakfast Makeover
Craving the sweet and savory goodness of a McDonald’s McGriddle but want a version you can make at home for a crowd (or just a really indulgent weekend breakfast)? Look no further than this Easy McGriddle Casserole recipe! It captures all the familiar flavors – the fluffy pancakes, the savory sausage, and the melty cheese – in a convenient and shareable casserole format. This recipe is surprisingly simple to put together, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this breakfast masterpiece!
## Why You’ll Love This McGriddle Casserole
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it ideal for busy mornings or when you have guests over.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** It’s perfect for feeding a large group, whether it’s a family brunch or a holiday gathering.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by using different types of sausage, cheese, or even adding vegetables.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Prepare the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
* **That McGriddle Flavor:** It nails the sweet and savory combination we all love about the original.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Pancakes:** 12-16 pre-made pancakes (store-bought or homemade – your choice! If making from scratch, use a recipe that yields slightly sweeter pancakes to mimic the McGriddle flavor)
* **Sausage:** 1 pound breakfast sausage (bulk sausage works best, but you can also remove the casings from sausage links)
* **Eggs:** 6 large eggs
* **Milk:** 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% milk are recommended for richness)
* **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on your preference)
* **Maple Syrup:** ¼ cup maple syrup (the real stuff is best!)
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **Salt:** ¼ teaspoon salt
* **Black Pepper:** ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* **Cooking Spray:** For greasing the baking dish
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** This is the standard size for most casseroles.
* **Large Skillet:** For cooking the sausage.
* **Large Bowl:** For whisking the egg mixture.
* **Whisk:** For blending the egg mixture.
* **Spatula or Spoon:** For stirring and spreading the ingredients.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to make this delicious McGriddle Casserole:
**Step 1: Prepare the Sausage**
1. Remove sausage from packaging.
2. If using sausage links, remove the casings. Crumble the sausage into a large skillet.
3. Cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
4. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step is important to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
5. Set the cooked sausage aside.
**Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Base**
1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
2. Cut the pancakes into quarters or halves, depending on their size. The goal is to create pieces that will fit neatly in the baking dish.
3. Arrange half of the pancake pieces in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Try to cover the entire bottom surface evenly.
**Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of pancakes.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage.
3. Arrange the remaining pancake pieces in a layer over the cheese.
4. Sprinkle the remaining sausage over the pancakes.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the sausage.
**Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and pepper until well combined. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining.
2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers of pancakes, sausage, and cheese in the baking dish. Ensure that the egg mixture soaks into all the layers.
**Step 5: Bake the Casserole**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensure that the casserole cooks evenly.
3. Bake the casserole for 30 minutes covered.
4. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. The casserole is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
**Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve**
1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.
2. Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. You can serve it as is, or with additional maple syrup on the side, if desired.
## Tips and Variations
* **Use Different Sausage:** Experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage, to add a unique flavor to the casserole.
* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the sausage mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a little heat.
* **Cheese Variations:** Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, to create a different flavor profile.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or a combination of vegetables like mushrooms and onions.
* **Add a Crunch:** Sprinkle some crushed cornflakes or crispy fried onions on top of the casserole before baking for added texture.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pancakes to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Maple Extract:** For an extra punch of maple flavor, add ½ teaspoon of maple extract to the egg mixture.
* **Sweet and Savory Balance:** Adjust the amount of maple syrup in the egg mixture to suit your personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of maple syrup.
* **Prevent Soggy Casserole:** Ensure you drain the sausage well to remove excess grease. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
This McGriddle Casserole is a fantastic make-ahead breakfast option. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the recipe instructions.
2. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
3. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
4. Bake according to step 5 of the recipe instructions, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if needed, to ensure the casserole is heated through and the egg mixture is set.
## Serving Suggestions
This McGriddle Casserole is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience:
* **Maple Syrup:** Serve with extra maple syrup on the side for drizzling.
* **Fruit Salad:** A fresh fruit salad adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the casserole.
* **Yogurt Parfaits:** Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy and satisfying side dish.
* **Bacon or Ham:** Add some crispy bacon or ham on the side for extra protein.
* **Avocado Toast:** Creamy avocado toast provides a contrasting texture and flavor.
* **Coffee or Tea:** A warm cup of coffee or tea is the perfect accompaniment to this breakfast casserole.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Leftover McGriddle Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** To reheat, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.
* **Freeze:** While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the casserole for longer storage. Cut the casserole into individual portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
## McGriddle Casserole: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use frozen pancakes for this recipe?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen pancakes. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before cutting them into pieces and assembling the casserole. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly as frozen pancakes can sometimes make the casserole a bit wetter.
**Q: Can I make this casserole without maple syrup?**
A: Yes, you can reduce or omit the maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet casserole. You can substitute it with a sugar-free sweetener or omit it altogether. Keep in mind that the maple syrup contributes to the McGriddle flavor, so the taste will be slightly different.
**Q: My casserole is browning too quickly. What should I do?**
A: If the top of the casserole is browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. This will help to prevent it from burning.
**Q: The center of my casserole is still wobbly after the recommended baking time. What should I do?**
A: If the center of the casserole is still wobbly, continue baking it for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Make sure to check it every few minutes to prevent it from overbaking.
**Q: Can I use a different type of milk?**
A: Yes, you can use different types of milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. However, keep in mind that the type of milk can affect the texture and richness of the casserole. Whole milk or 2% milk are recommended for the best results.
**Q: Can I add a topping to the casserole?**
A: Absolutely! Consider adding a sprinkle of brown sugar, cinnamon, or a drizzle of maple syrup after baking. You could also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
**Q: What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish?**
A: If you don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish, you can use a slightly smaller or larger dish. Just adjust the amount of ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that the baking time may also need to be adjusted.
**Q: How do I prevent the pancakes from getting soggy?**
A: To prevent the pancakes from getting soggy, make sure to drain the sausage well to remove excess grease. You can also lightly toast the pancakes before assembling the casserole to help them retain their texture. Don’t oversoak the pancakes with the egg mixture.
**Q: Can I add a layer of hash browns to the casserole?**
A: Yes, adding a layer of hash browns to the casserole would be delicious! Layer them on the bottom of the dish before adding the pancakes. This adds another element similar to a full breakfast plate.
## Enjoy Your Homemade McGriddle Casserole!
This Easy McGriddle Casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. With its simple instructions and customizable ingredients, you can easily create a breakfast masterpiece that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying McGriddle Casserole that’s even better than the original!