Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist
Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist is a fun and tasty mix of two favorite things: fluffy pancakes and juicy smash burgers. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery pancake layered with…
Tip: save now, cook later.Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist is a fun and tasty mix of two favorite things: fluffy pancakes and juicy smash burgers. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery pancake layered with a crispy, flavorful beef patty and all your classic burger toppings. It’s like breakfast and lunch had a delicious baby that’s impossible not to love.
I love making this recipe when I want to surprise my family with something different but still familiar. The sweet and savory combo is such a hit, and the crispy edges on the smash burger add the perfect crunch against the soft pancakes. My favorite tip is to add a little cheese right onto the patty while it’s still hot so it melts perfectly before stacking it up.
These pancakes work great for a weekend brunch or a special treat anytime you’re craving a burger but want something a little more fun. I like serving it with some ketchup and a side of crispy bacon to round out the meal. It’s definitely a recipe that gets lots of smiles and second helpings around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean beef for juicy, flavorful patties that crisp well. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but expect less crusty edges.
Pancake Batter: Using all-purpose flour and baking powder gives fluffy pancakes. You can swap milk for plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk if dairy-free.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds great tang. If you prefer milder cheese, mozzarella works fine, or try American cheese for classic burger flavor.
Maple Syrup & Butter: These add a lovely sweet and rich finish. You can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives to maple syrup, or a flavored butter like cinnamon butter to add extra depth.
How Do You Get That Perfect Crispy Smash Burger Crust?
The secret to a great smash burger is smashing the meat thin right as it hits a very hot skillet:
- Preheat your cast iron pan on high until it’s smoking a bit. This heat creates a nice crust.
- Place the loosely formed beef ball on the skillet, then smash down hard with a wide spatula or burger press—make it thin!
- Do not move the patty while it cooks; let the edges crisp and brown, about 2 minutes.
- Flip once, add cheese, and cook just enough to melt the cheese and finish cooking the burger.
These steps lock in flavor and texture, giving you that crave-worthy crunch and juicy center people love about smash burgers.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet – perfect for getting a super hot surface that crisps the burger edges just right.
- Spatula – a wide, sturdy spatula helps you smash the burgers thin and flip them easily.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk your pancake batter smoothly without lumps.
- Non-stick griddle or skillet – makes cooking pancakes easy and prevents sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise pancake batter ingredients and seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option that still works well with the crispy smash method.
- Add cooked bacon strips between pancake layers for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Try Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the syrup.
- Mix chopped green onions or chives into the pancake batter for a subtle savory twist that blends nicely with the burger.
Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp melted butter
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
For Assembly:
- Butter, for topping
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. Pancakes cook quickly in batches, and the smash burger patties also only need a few minutes on each side. Assembly is speedy, and your tasty Smash Burger Pancakes are ready to enjoy in under half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pancake Batter:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Create a well in the middle and pour in the milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir gently until the batter is smooth but take care not to overmix. Set the batter aside to rest briefly.
2. Cook the Pancakes:
Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, around 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. Keep the cooked pancakes warm while you finish making the rest.
3. Prepare and Cook the Smash Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely shape each into a ball. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle on high until very hot. Place each ball on the skillet and immediately press down firmly with a spatula to smash into thin patties. Season with salt and pepper. Cook without moving for about 2 minutes, allowing edges to crisp wonderfully. Flip the patties, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top, and cook another minute until the cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
4. Assemble the Smash Burger Pancakes:
Start with one pancake on your plate. Place one cheeseburger patty on top, then layer another pancake, followed by the second cheeseburger patty. Finish with a final pancake on top.
5. Finish and Serve:
Add a pat of butter to melt on the top pancake. Drizzle generously with maple syrup for a delicious sweet and savory flavor combo. For a pretty finish, dust lightly with powdered sugar if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your unique stack!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for the Smash Burgers?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight before shaping and smashing. This helps the patties cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
Can I Make the Pancake Batter Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle stir before cooking the pancakes to refresh the texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers and pancakes separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat pancakes in a toaster or skillet, and warm the patties on the stove for best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup make excellent sweet alternatives to drizzle over the stack while keeping the sweet-savory balance.