Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist
Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist brings together two of my favorite comfort foods in one fun and tasty dish! Imagine juicy smashed beef patties layered between fluffy pancakes, with all…
Tip: save now, cook later.Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist brings together two of my favorite comfort foods in one fun and tasty dish! Imagine juicy smashed beef patties layered between fluffy pancakes, with all the classic burger fixings like melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickles. It’s a playful mix of sweet and savory that’s sure to surprise your taste buds in the best way.
I love making this recipe when I want to shake up the usual breakfast or lunch routine. It’s a great way to get everyone’s attention at the table because who wouldn’t be curious about a burger-pancake combo? One tip I’ve learned is to make sure the pancakes are just sweet enough to balance the savory burger without overpowering it. I usually add a little vanilla to the pancake batter for that perfect hint of sweetness.
This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or a weekend treat when you want something different but totally satisfying. I like serving Smash Burger Pancakes with a side of crispy fries or a light salad to keep things balanced. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring smiles and starting conversations about this unexpected combo—people always want to know how it tastes before trying it, and the surprise is always worth it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 mix for juicy, flavorful patties. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but expect less juiciness.
Pancakes: Use smaller pancakes, around 4 inches wide, so they stack nicely with the patties. You can make them from scratch or use your favorite pancake mix.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor and melts well. If you prefer, Swiss, American, or pepper jack will work too.
Eggs: Sunny-side-up eggs with runny yolks are my favorite here. They add richness and help glue the stack together. Scrambled or fried eggs work, too.
Maple Syrup: This adds a surprising sweetness that brightens the dish. For a twist, try honey or a mild barbecue sauce instead.
How Do You Perfectly Smash and Cook Burger Patties?
Smashing creates a thin patty with a crispy edge and juicy middle. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat your skillet until very hot before adding the beef ball.
- Place the beef ball in the pan, then press down firmly with a spatula or pan press immediately. Press just once—don’t keep smashing.
- Season the exposed side with salt and pepper.
- Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust.
- Flip the patty gently, then add cheese right after flipping.
- Cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patty is done.
Quick cooking and a hot pan are key for those delicious browned edges that give the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – perfect for smashing burgers and getting a crispy crust.
- Non-stick griddle or skillet – ideal for cooking pancakes evenly without sticking.
- Spatula or burger press – helps you smash and flip patties easily.
- Mixing bowl – for preparing pancake batter or combining ingredients.
- Frying pan – to cook eggs just how you like them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese if you like a little spicy kick in your stack.
- Use turkey or veggie patties for a lighter or meat-free option.
- Add crispy bacon between layers for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
- Try a drizzle of barbecue sauce instead of maple syrup for a smoky-sweet twist.
Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juicy patties)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 small pancake rounds (about 4 inches diameter)
- 4 large eggs
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
For Serving and Garnish:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or kale, roughly chopped
- Diced tomatoes (optional)
- Butter or oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 20-30 minutes total. Prep and cook the pancakes and smash burgers simultaneously if possible, then fry the eggs and assemble quickly for the best experience. Enjoy your meal fresh and warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Melt-In-Your-Mouth Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 loosely packed balls. Don’t overwork the meat to keep the patties juicy.
2. Cooking the Pancakes:
Grease your skillet or griddle lightly and cook each pancake until golden brown on both sides. Keep them warm while you cook the burgers.
3. Searing the Smash Burgers:
Heat your cast iron or heavy skillet until very hot. Place each ball of beef in the pan and immediately smash it down with a spatula or press until nice and thin. Salt and pepper the top. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until a crispy crust forms. Flip the patty, add a slice of cheddar cheese, and cook another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patty is done.
4. Fried Eggs with Runny Yolks:
In a separate pan, cook the eggs sunny-side-up or to your liking, aiming for runny yolks that add extra flavor and moisture to the stack.
5. Building the Heavenly Stack:
Start with a pancake as your base, then layer a melted-cheese smash burger patty. Repeat with another pancake and patty. Finish with a final pancake on top.
6. The Finishing Touch:
Place a fried egg on the very top. Drizzle the entire stack generously with warm maple syrup, allowing it to cascade down. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley or kale, and diced tomatoes on the plate for a colorful and tasty presentation.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s hot – each bite gives you a perfect blend of sweet, savory, melty, and crispy flavors. This unique twist on classic foods makes for a fun and satisfying meal any time you’re craving something special.
Can I Use Frozen Pancakes for This Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw frozen pancakes completely before assembling the stack. Warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave to get that fresh, fluffy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties, pancakes, and eggs separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before assembling to maintain texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef patties with veggie or plant-based patties, and use cheese and eggs as usual. You can add avocado or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Melt the Cheese on the Burgers?
After flipping the patties, immediately add the cheese slices and cover the pan with a lid for 1-2 minutes. This traps heat and helps the cheese melt perfectly.
