If you’ve ever wished you could combine the irresistible flavors of a juicy burger with the fluffy, comforting goodness of pancakes, then I have just the thing for you: Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe. This delightful dish takes the classic breakfast pancake and transforms it by layering inside a perfectly seasoned beef patty, melted cheese, and even pickles. It’s a celebration of savory and sweet, texture and flavor, all in one stack that’s sure to become your new weekend favorite or a fantastic surprise brunch treat for friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Smash Burger Pancakes lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a burst of flavor and texture. Each component, from the seasoned beef to the cheesy pancake batter, plays a vital role in balancing savory richness with fluffy softness and tangy crunch.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose fresh, lean ground beef for juicy, flavorful patties without excess grease.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the beef and the overall dish.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the meat mixture.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the burger patties.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic powder with a sweet onion essence.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Infuses the beef with umami and complexity.
- 2 cups pancake mix: The base for tender, fluffy pancakes that support the burger beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Moistens the pancake batter for a soft texture.
- 1 egg: Binds the pancake batter together for a perfect consistency.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melted cheese folded into the batter adds savory creaminess to each bite.
- 1/4 cup diced onions: Adds a fresh crunch and mild bite inside the pancakes.
- 1/4 cup pickles, chopped: Brings a tangy zing that brightens the flavors dramatically.
- Ketchup and mustard for serving: Classic condiments that tie the whole dish together.
How to Make Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
Start by mixing the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. This blend is your flavor foundation for juicy, savory patties. Make sure everything is combined evenly so every bite tastes amazing.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the spiced beef mixture into small portions and carefully shape them into thin patties. Thin is key here because you want them to cook quickly and fit perfectly atop your pancakes without overpowering them.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re beautifully browned and fully cooked. Set aside once done—you’ll be layering these soon!
Step 4: Make the Pancake Batter
In a clean bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, and egg just until combined. Then fold in shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and chopped pickles. This mixture isn’t your everyday batter — it’s loaded with savory surprises that perfectly complement the beef.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Using the same skillet or griddle to keep all those delicious flavors, pour about 1/4 cup batter for each pancake. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges, giving you that wonderful texture contrast.
Step 6: Assemble the Smash Burger Pancakes
Place a cooked beef patty onto each pancake. Gently press down to “smash” the patty slightly into the pancake, allowing the flavors and textures to marry beautifully in every mouthwatering bite.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Smash Burger Pancakes hot with ketchup and mustard on the side for dipping or drizzling. This is where breakfast meets burger bliss in a way that’s both surprising and totally satisfying.
How to Serve Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions on top. A dollop of sour cream or a bit of crispy bacon crumbled over the stack can elevate these pancakes into a rich, decadent feast that will impress at any breakfast table.
Side Dishes
Pair these smash burger pancakes with crispy hash browns or a fresh fruit salad to balance the savory richness. A simple mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette also works beautifully if you want to keep things light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the pancakes and patties into mini sliders for a fun party appetizer, or serve with a sunny-side-up egg on top to add another layer of richness and that gorgeous runny yolk that everyone loves. Presentation makes this recipe even more exciting to share with guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Smash Burger Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep them cool and well-sealed to maintain freshness while the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
For longer storage, separate the pancakes and patties with parchment paper and freeze them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. This way, you can enjoy your Smash Burger Pancakes anytime without losing that fresh-cooked taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat or use a toaster oven to maintain the pancake’s fluffiness and crisp up the edges of the patties. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it can make the pancakes a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the pancakes?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a nice sharp, creamy flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for meltiness or pepper jack for a little zing. Just be mindful of the saltiness levels when swapping cheeses.
Is ground turkey or chicken a good substitute for beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they are leaner proteins and might dry out faster. Adding a bit of olive oil or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can help keep them juicy.
Can I make the pancake batter from scratch instead of using a mix?
Definitely! A scratch batter made with flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, milk, and eggs works just as well and lets you control the ingredients completely. Just fold in the cheese, onions, and pickles as instructed.
What kind of pickles work best in this recipe?
Dill pickles add the perfect tang and crunch that complement the savory beef and cheesy pancake batter. You can try bread-and-butter pickles for a slightly sweeter note if you prefer.
Can I keep the patties thicker instead of smashing them?
Of course! Thicker patties will give more of a traditional burger feel, but note that the balance between pancake and beef may shift. Smashing keeps everything thinner and easier to eat in one bite, making the dish unique and fun.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully playful and satisfying about making Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe your new go-to morning treat. It brings together the best of breakfast and burger worlds in a way that’s both unexpected and perfectly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how your breakfast routine gets an unforgettable upgrade!
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Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Smash Burger Pancakes combine the savory flavors of classic smashed beef patties with cheesy, onion- and pickle-studded pancakes for a playful and satisfying breakfast twist. This recipe layers hearty, seasoned beef patties atop fluffy cheddar pancakes and is perfect for a fun weekend brunch.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Pancakes
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup pickles, chopped
For Serving
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. This seasoning blend ensures flavorful, juicy patties.
- Form the patties: Divide the beef mixture into small portions and shape each into a thin patty to achieve the characteristic smash burger texture and thickness.
- Cook the patties: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a brown crust and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the pancake batter: In a separate bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and egg until just mixed. Avoid overmixing. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and chopped pickles to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Cook the pancakes: Using the same skillet or griddle, pour approximately 1/4 cup of the pancake batter for each pancake. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Assemble the smash burger pancakes: Place one cooked beef patty on top of each pancake. Press down gently to “smash” the patty against the pancake, melding the two together for a unique texture and flavor combination.
- Serve: Enjoy the smash burger pancakes hot with ketchup and mustard served on the side for dipping and added tanginess.
Notes
- Use a well-seasoned skillet or griddle to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Do not overmix the pancake batter; a few lumps are okay to keep the pancakes fluffy.
- For extra flavor, you can add a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder to the beef mixture.
- Customize toppings by adding lettuce, tomato slices, or a fried egg if desired.
- The recipe yields 6 servings, perfect for sharing at brunch or breakfast gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
