1️⃣ Form and cook the sausage patties:

• Divide the ground sausage into 4 equal parts and form them into round patties.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the sausage patties for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through. Set them aside.
• If using bacon, cook the bacon in the same skillet until crispy, then set aside.

2️⃣ Prepare the eggs:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter melts, pour in ¼ of the egg mixture.
• Cook the eggs flat like an omelet, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. After about 1-2 minutes, flip the omelet and cook for 1 more minute.
• Fold the omelet into thirds and then fold the top and bottom to create a square stack. Set aside.
• Repeat the process with the remaining egg mixture, adding 1 tablespoon of butter for each batch, until you have 4 folded omelet squares.

3️⃣ Make the pancakes:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk, melted butter, egg, baking powder, maple syrup, and salt. Beat well until you have a smooth batter.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat with a little butter.
• For each pancake, spoon about 3 tablespoons of the batter onto the skillet. You can fit 2-3 pancakes in the skillet at a time without overcrowding.
• Cook each pancake for 2 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip and cook for 1 more minute until golden and fully cooked through. Set aside and repeat until you have 8 pancakes.

4️⃣ Assemble the McGriddles:

• Place one pancake on a plate. Add a slice of cheese on top, followed by a sausage patty, a folded omelet square, and optional bacon slices.
• Top with another pancake to create the sandwich.
• Repeat this process to assemble the remaining 3 McGriddles.

5️⃣ Serve and enjoy:

• Serve your homemade McGriddles warm with a side of syrup or as is for a complete breakfast sandwich!