Sausage Pancake Bites

 

A perfect fusion of savory and sweet, these easy-to-make bites are a crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack. They’re freezer-friendly, making mornings a breeze!

Yields: Approximately 24-30 bites
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

For the Pancake Batter:

• 2 cups pancake mix (gluten-free if needed)

• 1¼ cups milk

• 1 large egg

• 2 tbsp melted butter, slightly cooled

For Serving:

• Warm maple syrup, for drizzling

• Softened butter, for topping

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage Filling:

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.

• Drain any excess grease from the skillet. While the sausage is still warm, stir in the shredded cheese. The residual heat will gently melt the cheese, helping the mixture bind. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Batter:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, egg, and melted butter until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes while you preheat your cooking surface.

3. Form and Cook the Bites:

• Preheat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C). Lightly grease with butter or oil.

• For each bite, drop a tablespoon of batter onto the hot griddle to form the base.

• Place a heaping teaspoon of the sausage and cheese mixture in the center of each batter pool.

• Carefully spoon another tablespoon of batter over the filling, using the back of the spoon to gently spread it to the edges to seal the bite.

• Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges look set and bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Serve:

• Serve the pancake bites immediately while warm. Stack them high and top with a pat of butter and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• To Freeze: Allow cooked bites to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (1-2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

• To Reheat: Reheat frozen bites directly from the freezer in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be microwaved in 30-second intervals until warm.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Use spicy breakfast sausage or add 1-2 tablespoons of finely diced jalapeño to the sausage-cheese mixture.

• Sweet & Savory: Whisk 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup directly into the pancake batter for a hint of sweetness.

• Mini Muffin Method: Grease a mini muffin tin. Spoon one tablespoon of batter into each cup, add a small amount of filling, and top with another tablespoon of batter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

• Gourmet Cheese Swap: Try shredded gouda, pepper jack, or a smoky cheese blend for a different flavor profile.