If you’re looking for a delightful morning treat that combines two beloved breakfast staples, you have to try Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe. This creative dish layers juicy, flavorful cheeseburger patties right inside tender, savory pancakes, making every bite an explosion of textures and tastes. It’s playful yet satisfying, perfect for brunching with friends or treating your family to something memorable and scrumptious. Trust me, once you make this, Smash Burger Pancakes will quickly become one of your new favorite go-to recipes when you want a fun spin on breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this dish is refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a pivotal role in building those bold, comforting flavors and that ideal balance of savory and soft. From the juicy ground beef to the cheesy goodness and pickled tang, every element counts.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred): The perfect fat ratio ensures juicy, flavorful burger patties that stay tender.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential to season and enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami kick that deepens the meat’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- 6 savory pancakes (about 4–5 inches wide): The soft, lightly seasoned base that replaces traditional buns.
- 6 slices American cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties for that classic cheeseburger feel.
- 1/4 cup diced pickles: Adds bright acidity and crunch that cuts through the richness.
- 1/4 cup diced onions: Offers sharpness and a fresh bite to complement the beef.
- 1/4 cup burger sauce or Thousand Island dressing: Brings creamy tanginess that melds all the flavors together.
- Cooking spray or butter for griddle: Ensures your patties and pancakes cook evenly without sticking.
How to Make Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Patties
Start by heating your griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat, making sure it’s well-greased with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Divide the ground beef into six equal portions, then place each ball onto the hot surface. Smash each ball flat with a spatula or burger press so they match the size of your pancakes. This smashing technique creates delicious crusty edges and locks in moisture — a hallmark of the smash burger style.
Step 2: Season and Cook
Immediately season the patties with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Let the patties cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the patties and quickly top each one with a slice of American cheese, letting it melt as the patties finish cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This step achieves that perfect, melty cheeseburger center that pairs beautifully with your pancakes.
Step 3: Warm the Pancakes
While the patties cook, warm your savory pancakes on the side or prepare them fresh if you haven’t done so already. Make sure they’re soft and warm to complement the juicy patties. If you want an extra flavor boost, adding some shredded cheddar or fresh chives to your pancake batter works wonders.
Step 4: Assemble Your Smash Burger Pancakes
Now comes the fun part. Spread a generous spoonful of burger sauce or Thousand Island dressing on one pancake. Place the cheeseburger patty on top, then sprinkle with the diced pickles and onions for that classic burger crunch. Cap it off with another pancake on top, gently press together, and serve immediately while it’s warm. The combination of flavors and textures in these Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe is sure to make every bite irresistible.
How to Serve Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Smash Burger Pancakes even more, consider topping with a handful of fresh greens like baby arugula or watercress. A light drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or extra burger sauce adds a spicy punch that wakes up your palate. You can also add thinly sliced tomatoes or a few crispy bacon strips for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
These pancakes shine as a hearty main, but pairing them with classic breakfast sides like golden hash browns, crispy breakfast potatoes, or even a simple mixed fruit salad balances out the richness. A tall glass of freshly brewed coffee or a sparkling mimosa complements this fun breakfast feast perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful brunch setup, serve the Smash Burger Pancakes stacked slightly askew on a rustic wooden board with little bowls of extra pickles, onions, and sauce on the side. You could also skewer mini versions for a delicious finger-food party platter. Bright napkins and colorful plates will highlight how much fun this dish is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the assembled Smash Burger Pancakes tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. It’s best to separate pancakes and patties if possible to maintain their texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties and pancakes separately on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers, where they can keep for up to 1 month. Assemble fresh when you’re ready to enjoy, for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat patties and pancakes individually in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to restore crisp edges and warmth. Then reassemble with fresh sauce and toppings. Avoid microwave reheating alone as it can make the pancakes rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for these pancakes?
Absolutely! While American cheese melts perfectly and is traditional, cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack can add fantastic flavors depending on your taste preferences.
Are the pancakes supposed to be sweet or savory?
For this recipe, savory pancakes work best to contrast the richness of the burger. You can use store-bought savory pancakes or make your own with a pinch of salt and no sugar.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, swap out the beef patties for plant-based burger patties or a seasoned portobello mushroom cap. Adjust cooking times accordingly to achieve that perfect texture.
Is Worcestershire sauce necessary?
While not mandatory, Worcestershire sauce adds a unique umami depth that enhances the beef’s flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, a splash of soy sauce works as a decent substitute.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a brunch party?
You can pre-cook the patties and pancakes and store them separately, then quickly warm and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe is a joyful mashup that turns your typical breakfast into something truly special. The melding of juicy, cheesy burger patties with savory pancakes will surprise and delight anyone lucky enough to try it. So why not add a little playful flair to your next brunch and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is fun?
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Smash Burger Pancakes: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Smash Burger Pancakes are a delicious and fun twist on traditional breakfast, combining savory pancakes with juicy, seasoned smashed beef patties layered with melted cheese, pickles, onions, and a tangy burger sauce. Perfect for a hearty brunch or a creative main course.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Pancakes & Toppings
- 6 savory pancakes (about 4–5 inches wide)
- 6 slices American cheese
- 1/4 cup diced pickles
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup burger sauce or Thousand Island dressing
- Cooking spray or butter for griddle
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Patties: Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Form and Smash Beef: Divide the ground beef into 6 equal-sized balls. Place each ball on the hot griddle and immediately smash them flat using a spatula or burger press until they reach the size of the pancakes.
- Season and Cook: Sprinkle each patty with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the edges brown and the bottom is crispy.
- Flip and Add Cheese: Flip each patty, then place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burgers are fully cooked through.
- Warm Pancakes: While the patties cook, warm your savory pancakes on another griddle or in the same skillet, if space allows, until heated through.
- Assemble Smash Burger Pancakes: Spread burger sauce or Thousand Island dressing on one pancake. Place one cheeseburger patty atop, sprinkle with diced pickles and onions, then top with another pancake to complete the stack.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your smash burger pancakes hot and enjoy this savory, satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
Notes
- You can use store-bought savory pancakes or make your own with a basic batter seasoned with a pinch of salt and no sugar.
- For extra flavor, add shredded cheddar cheese or chopped chives directly into the pancake batter.
- Serve these pancakes with fries or breakfast potatoes to create a full hearty brunch meal.
