Savory smash burger pancakes with melted cheese and fresh toppings, breakfast twist on classic burger flavors

Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist

Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist is a fun and tasty way to start your day with a bit of a surprise. Imagine soft, fluffy pancakes combined with juicy smashed burger…

By Brad



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Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist is a fun and tasty way to start your day with a bit of a surprise. Imagine soft, fluffy pancakes combined with juicy smashed burger patties, melted cheese, and all your favorite burger toppings right in the mix. It’s a mix of breakfast and lunch that’s sure to keep you smiling and full for hours.

I love making these when I want something different from the regular pancake routine. The crispy edges of the smashed burger add a satisfying crunch that works perfectly with the sweet, tender pancakes. Plus, I like tossing in a little cheese into the batter or melting it on top for an extra layer of flavor. It’s such a cool way to bring two favorites together that I never get bored of.

When I serve Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist, I usually add a side of fresh fruit or some crispy hash browns to make it a complete meal. Sometimes, I even top the whole stack with a fried egg and a drizzle of ketchup or mustard, just like a proper burger. This recipe is a fun change-up that always makes breakfast feel like a little celebration.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 beef for juicy, flavorful patties. If you want leaner options, try 90/10, but the burgers might be less juicy.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives a nice tang. Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.

Pancakes: All-purpose flour makes these tender and soft. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. Whole milk adds richness; you can swap for a plant-based milk if preferred.

Eggs: Sunny-side up eggs keep the yolk runny, adding creaminess. You can cook eggs however you like—poached or scrambled also work!

Maple Syrup: This adds sweetness that balances the savory flavors. Try honey or a smoky BBQ sauce for a different flavor combo.

How Do You Perfectly Smash and Cook Burger Patties?

Smashing the burger thin creates crispy edges and a juicy center. Here’s how I make them:

  • Use a heavy skillet or griddle and get it very hot before adding the beef balls.
  • Place loosely packed meat balls on the skillet, then press down firmly with a sturdy spatula to create thin patties.
  • Don’t move the patties while cooking; this helps form a crispy crust.
  • Season with salt and pepper right after smashing to boost flavor.
  • Flip after 2 minutes and add cheese quickly—let it melt while cooking the second side.

This method ensures edges are crispy and the inside stays juicy—key to that perfect smash burger taste that pairs wonderfully with the soft pancakes.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Nonstick skillet or griddle – perfect for cooking even, golden pancakes without sticking.
  • Heavy cast iron skillet – great for getting a high heat to smash and sear the burger patties crispy.
  • Spatula – a sturdy one helps smash burgers thin and flip pancakes easily.
  • Mixing bowls – one for pancake batter and one for dry ingredients to keep things organized.
  • Whisk – to mix pancake batter smoothly with no lumps.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

  • Try turkey or chicken burgers for a lighter option that still tastes great with pancakes.
  • Add cooked bacon strips for smoky crunch that lifts the whole flavor.
  • Mix shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese into the pancake batter for cheesy bites.
  • Top with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to add sweetness and depth.

Smash Burger Pancakes Recipe

How to Make Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pancakes:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter, plus extra for cooking

For the Smash Burgers:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese

Additional Toppings:

  • 2 large eggs (fried sunny-side up or over easy)
  • Fresh chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
  • Maple syrup for drizzling

How Much Time Will You Need?

Total time is about 30 minutes. Prepare and cook the pancake batter in about 10 minutes. Smash and cook burgers take roughly 10 to 12 minutes, and frying eggs plus assembling the dish will take about 8 minutes. This makes it a quick and fun recipe to enjoy for breakfast or brunch!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pancake Batter:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined. Some lumps are fine—avoid overmixing so your pancakes stay fluffy.

2. Cook the Pancakes:

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly brush with melted butter. Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, about 2 more minutes. Keep cooked pancakes warm while you finish.

3. Make the Smash Burgers:

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal parts and loosely shape each into a ball. Heat a heavy skillet or griddle on high until very hot. Place the beef balls on the skillet, then press down firmly with a spatula to make thin patties. Season with salt and pepper. Cook without moving them until the bottoms are well browned, about 2 minutes.

4. Add Cheese and Flip:

Flip the patties and quickly place a slice of cheddar on each. Cook another 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger finishes cooking.

5. Fry the Eggs:

In a separate pan, fry your eggs sunny-side up or over easy so the yolks stay runny, which will add delicious richness to your stack.

6. Assemble the Smash Burger Pancakes:

Start with a pancake on your plate, add a cheeseburger patty, then another pancake, the second patty, and finish with a final pancake on top. Place the fried egg on the very top.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Drizzle plenty of maple syrup all over the stack so it drips through every layer. Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and taste.

8. Enjoy:

This amazing layering of soft pancakes, juicy cheeseburgers, runny egg, and maple syrup is ready to serve. Dig in and enjoy this fun and unique twist on classic breakfast flavors!

Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for the Smash Burgers?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat the beef dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve a better sear and crispy edges when smashing the patties.

Can I Make the Pancakes Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pancakes a few hours in advance and keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C). Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling the stack.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover patties, pancakes, and eggs separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties and pancakes in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their texture.

Can I Substitute Maple Syrup with Another Sauce?

Yes! If you prefer less sweetness, try drizzling BBQ sauce, hot sauce, or even a light smear of ketchup or mustard to keep that savory burger flavor shining through.

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Brad

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