If you love the classic flavors of a McGriddle, you’re going to adore this Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake! It’s a hearty, sweet, and savory breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or meal prep. Imagine fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and rich cheddar cheese baked into a warm, golden casserole—pure breakfast bliss!
Whether you’re looking for meal prep breakfast ideas for kids or a quick weekend brunch, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and reheats beautifully for busy weekdays. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake
✔️ Easy & Quick to Make – Minimal prep time, and everything bakes in one dish!
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
✔️ Kid-Friendly – The sweet and savory flavors are a hit with children.
✔️ Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
✔️ Great for Large Gatherings – Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pancake Base:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup maple syrup (for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before starting, make sure you have the right tools:
✔️ Mixing bowls – For combining pancake batter and other ingredients.
✔️ Whisk – To mix the batter evenly.
✔️ Baking dish (9×13-inch) – Perfect for baking the casserole.
✔️ Spatula – To fold in ingredients and spread evenly.
✔️ Skillet – For cooking the sausage.
How to Make Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it into crumbles, then drain any excess grease. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Avoid overmixing—some lumps are fine!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour half of the pancake batter into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the batter. Then, pour the remaining pancake batter over the top, covering the sausage and cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Add Maple Topping & Serve
Once baked, drizzle with melted butter and maple syrup for that classic McGriddle-style flavor. Let it cool slightly, then slice into squares and serve warm!
Tips for the Best Sausage Pancake Casserole
✔️ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the casserole dense instead of fluffy.
✔️ Pre-Cook the Sausage – Raw sausage will release too much grease while baking.
✔️ Use Real Maple Syrup – For the best flavor, avoid artificial syrups.
✔️ Let It Rest Before Slicing – This helps the casserole hold its shape.
✔️ Want a Crispier Top? – Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a golden, slightly crispy texture.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
🌿 Make It Healthier: Swap pork sausage for turkey sausage and use a whole wheat pancake mix.
🧀 Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or pepper jack for a cheesy kick.
🌱 Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
🥞 Mini McGriddle Muffins: Pour batter into muffin tins and bake for 15-18 minutes for a grab-and-go version!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Using Too Much Syrup Inside the Batter – It can make the casserole too sweet and soggy.
🚫 Not Greasing the Pan Well – This can cause sticking and make cleanup harder.
🚫 Baking at the Wrong Temperature – Too high, and the top will burn; too low, and the center may stay raw.
🚫 Skipping the Cooling Step – Cutting too soon can make it fall apart.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat for 30-40 seconds per slice.
- Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes for best texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Want to make this a full breakfast spread? Serve it with:
🥚 Scrambled Eggs – A protein-packed side.
🍓 Fresh Fruit – Berries or banana slices add a refreshing touch.
🥛 Milk or Fresh Juice – Complements the sweet and savory flavors.
🧇 Crispy Hash Browns – Adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. The next morning, bake as directed.
❓ Can I use homemade pancake batter instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Just make sure your batter has a thick but pourable consistency.
❓ What type of sausage works best?
Any breakfast sausage works, but maple-flavored sausage adds an extra layer of sweetness.
❓ Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Simply use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake is a game-changer for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, and meal prepping. With its fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love!
If you tried this recipe, leave a comment below and share your thoughts! Don’t forget to pin this recipe and subscribe for more easy and delicious meal ideas.
PrintDelicious Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake : The Ultimate Meal!
If you love the classic flavors of a McGriddle, you’re going to adore this Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 45
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Pancake Base:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup maple syrup (for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it into crumbles, then drain any excess grease. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Avoid overmixing—some lumps are fine!
Pour half of the pancake batter into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the batter. Then, pour the remaining pancake batter over the top, covering the sausage and cheese.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, drizzle with melted butter and maple syrup for that classic McGriddle-style flavor. Let it cool slightly, then slice into squares and serve warm!
Notes
✔️ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the casserole dense instead of fluffy.
✔️ Pre-Cook the Sausage – Raw sausage will release too much grease while baking.
✔️ Use Real Maple Syrup – For the best flavor, avoid artificial syrups.
✔️ Let It Rest Before Slicing – This helps the casserole hold its shape.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
Keywords: Sausage Pancake Casserole Breakfast Bake