Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining two beloved comfort foods into one delightful dish. When I first came across the concept of Smash Burger Pancakes, I knew I had to try it. My family loves burgers, and pancakes are a weekend staple in our home. The idea of merging these two favorites into a savory pancake that’s both hearty and delicious was irresistible. After preparing them for brunch one Sunday, I was delighted to see my kids devour them with glee. The blend of flavors, from the juicy beef to the gooey cheddar cheese, left everyone asking for seconds. These pancakes not only fill the belly but also bring a unique twist to breakfast that’s perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 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
• 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
• Ketchup and mustard for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Patties:

• In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce until everything is well combined.
• Divide the beef mixture into small portions and form them into thin patties, about the size of your pancakes.

1. Cook the Patties:

• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the beef patties for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

1. Make the Pancake Batter:

• In another bowl, mix the pancake mix, milk, and egg until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
• Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and chopped pickles into the batter.

1. Cook the Pancakes:

• Using the same skillet or griddle, pour 1/4 cup of pancake batter for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Once the pancakes are cooked, place a beef patty on top of each pancake and gently press down to “smash” it.

1. Serve:

• Serve the smash burger pancakes hot, with ketchup and mustard on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and calories per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500 kcal (this can vary based on specific ingredients used)

Breakdown:

• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Smash Burger Pancakes warm on a plate.
• Offer ketchup and mustard in small bowls for dipping.
• Garnish with extra chopped pickles or shredded cheese, if desired.

Additional Tips

1. Grill the Patties: For an extra smoky flavor, consider grilling the beef patties instead of pan-frying them.
2. Add Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the beef mixture for extra flavor, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
3. Use Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
4. Vegetable Additions: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the pancake batter for added nutrition.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the beef patties in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

Recipe Variations

• Cheeseburger Pancakes: Add extra cheese into the pancake batter for a cheesier experience.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños into the beef mixture for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Breakfast Version: Add a fried egg on top of each pancake for a complete breakfast experience.
• Vegan Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use almond milk instead of regular milk.
• Sweet and Savory: Drizzle with maple syrup for a unique sweet and savory flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of crispy hash browns or fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness of the pancakes.
• For brunch gatherings, serve with mimosas or fresh-squeezed orange juice.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These pancakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container before freezing.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave them for 1-2 minutes or warm them in a skillet until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular pancakes instead of the savory mix?

• Yes, you can use your favorite pancake recipe; just ensure the flavors complement the savory toppings.

1. What can I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce?

• You can use soy sauce or omit it altogether, but it does add a nice umami flavor.

1. Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pancake mix and ensure your ground beef is free from any gluten-containing additives.

1. How can I make these pancakes spicy?

• Add cayenne pepper to the beef mixture or include jalapeños in the pancake batter.

1. Can I use shredded turkey instead of beef?

• Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter alternative.

1. What toppings work well with these pancakes?

• You can try avocado slices, sriracha, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for a unique flavor.

1. How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the pan?

• Make sure your skillet is adequately preheated and lightly greased before adding the batter.

1. Can these pancakes be made in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the batter and beef patties in advance, storing them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

1. What kind of cheese can I use?

• While cheddar is traditional, feel free to use mozzarella, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

1. Are these pancakes suitable for meal prep?
   • Yes! They make a hearty breakfast option that can be made in bulk and reheated easily.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Pancakes are a fun, hearty twist on breakfast that is sure to impress your family and friends. With the savory flavors of a classic smash burger packed into fluffy pancakes, this dish creates a unique culinary experience that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, lunch, or dinner, these pancakes are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Try them out for yourself, and watch as they become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire!

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