Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.

 In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside.

 In a bowl, whisk together pancake mix, milk, egg, melted butter, vanilla (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.

 Pour half of the pancake batter into the prepared dish.

 Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage evenly over the batter, then top with 1 cup shredded cheese.

 Pour remaining batter over the sausage layer. Add the rest of the sausage and finish with remaining cheese.

 Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.

 Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle generously with warm maple syrup and garnish with parsley if desired.