After a run of five defeats in seven games earlier this season, Man Utd have now won four of their last six as they look to belatedly get their campaign up and running.
The 2-1 win over Brentford before the international break felt like a turning point, and McTominay continued his hot streak by scuffing in a volley against the run of play to give Man Utd the lead.
Andre Onana had earlier made impressive saves to deny McBurnie and Cameron Archer, and the goalkeeper – who has been at fault for several goals already during his fledgling Man Utd career – went on to enjoy an encouraging outing.
However, Onana could do nothing about Sheffield United’s goal, which came just six minutes after McTominay had scored at the other end.
The Scotland international lazily hung out an arm to block a cross, with McBurnie burying the spot kick to score his first Premier League goal of the season.
Onana was called upon to to keep out Oliver Norwood and Rhian Brewster’s efforts from distance, while Foderingham denied Rasmus Hojlund his first Premier League strike.
Harry Maguire – who was named player of the match against his former club – was perhaps fortunate to avoid punishment for a push on James McAtee in the box, but the visitors gradually took control of the second half.
Fernandes clipped the bar with a free-kick and Amrabat thumped a post but it was Dalot who broke the hosts’ resistance with a bending effort that Foderingham may feel he could have kept out.