Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist
Smash Burger Pancakes are a fun twist combining the best of breakfast and burger flavors all in one bite. Imagine fluffy pancakes layered with juicy, perfectly smashed burger patties, melty…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Smash Burger Pancakes are a fun twist combining the best of breakfast and burger flavors all in one bite. Imagine fluffy pancakes layered with juicy, perfectly smashed burger patties, melty cheese, and all the classic toppings like crispy bacon or fresh lettuce. It’s a playful mix that wakes up your taste buds and fills you up with comfort food vibes.
I love making these when I want something different and exciting for brunch or even dinner. They’re kind of like breakfast and lunch having a delicious get-together on your plate. I find that using a good-quality beef patty and adding a little ketchup or mustard can really bring out the flavors and balance the sweetness of the pancakes. Plus, it’s always a hit with anyone who tries it because it’s familiar but also a surprise!
One of my favorite ways to serve Smash Burger Pancakes is with a side of crispy fries or a simple salad to lighten things up. It’s a great conversation starter at the table and perfect for weekends when you want something tasty but easy to make. I’m pretty sure once you try this combo, you’ll keep coming back for that mix of soft, savory, and sweet all rolled into one bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, try ground turkey or chicken, just know they won’t crisp up quite the same.
Pancakes: Classic fluffy pancakes make a great “bun.” You can swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free mix if needed, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully here, but cheddar or pepper jack are great for a sharper or spicier twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds smoky crunch. For a vegetarian option, use tempeh bacon or skip it altogether.
Maple Syrup: The syrup adds a sweet contrast to savory elements. You can use honey or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for something different.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burger Patties?
The key to great smash burgers is a hot skillet and quick, firm smashing. This creates crispy edges and juicy insides. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat cast-iron skillet or griddle until very hot, no oil needed.
- Place a ball of chilled ground beef on the pan.
- Use a heavy spatula or press to smash the ball down quickly and evenly.
- Season edges with salt and pepper right away.
- Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until edges crisp up and juices start to bubble.
- Flip gently, add cheese immediately, and cook 1 more minute.
This method makes patties with that signature browned, crispy crust while keeping them juicy inside. It’s simple but really brings out the best texture and flavor for your Smash Burger Pancakes!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet – perfect for getting a hot, even sear on the burger patties and creating crispy edges.
- Non-stick griddle or frying pan – makes cooking pancakes easier without sticking or breaking.
- Spatula – a sturdy metal spatula helps smash the burgers flat and flip them easily.
- Mixing bowls – for combining pancake batter ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your dry and wet ingredients just right for fluffy pancakes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter sandwich that still tastes great.
- Add a fried egg on top for extra richness and a runny yolk that mixes with the syrup.
- Try pepper jack or smoked gouda cheese instead of American for a spicier or smoky note.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions between layers to add depth and sweetness.
Smash Burger Pancakes with a Unique Twist
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For 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 large egg
- 3 tbsp melted butter
For Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
Additional Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Butter or oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes preparing and cooking pancakes and bacon, 10 minutes smashing and cooking burger patties, and a few minutes to assemble and enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Pancakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Pancakes Batter:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir gently until smooth, but be careful not to overmix.
2. Cook Pancakes:
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until you see bubbles on the surface and edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until beautiful golden brown. Set cooked pancakes aside.
3. Form and Smash Patties:
Divide the ground beef into four equal balls. Heat a cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle until very hot. Place each ball on the skillet and immediately press down with a spatula to smash them into thin patties. Cook without moving for about 2 minutes until edges are crispy and browned.
4. Season and Add Cheese:
Season the patties with salt and pepper. Flip, place a slice of cheese on each patty, and cook for another minute until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked through.
5. Cook Bacon:
While the patties and pancakes cook, crisp the bacon slices in a skillet or oven until crunchy.
6. Assemble the Burger Pancakes:
Start with one pancake on your plate, then add crispy bacon and a cheesy burger patty. Add another pancake, more bacon, and another patty. Finish with a final pancake on top.
7. Add the Unique Twist – Maple Syrup Drizzle:
Drizzle warm maple syrup generously over the whole stack. The sweet syrup melts into the savory layers, creating an irresistible blend of flavors.
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your Smash Burger Pancakes hot, with extra maple syrup on the side if you’d like.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for the Patties?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps the patties cook evenly and makes smashing easier without sticking to the spatula.
Can I Make the Pancakes or Burgers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pancakes and even cook the burger patties in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat pancakes gently in a skillet or toaster and warm patties on a skillet before assembling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the patties and pancakes separately in a skillet or microwave to maintain texture, then drizzle with fresh maple syrup before serving.
Can I Substitute the Maple Syrup?
Yes! If you want a different sweet touch, honey or agave syrup work well too. For a tangy contrast, try a light drizzle of balsamic glaze—just a little to complement the savory flavors without overpowering.