Description
Pancake Cheeseburger Stack
Ingredients:
2 cups pancake mix
1 cup milk
1 egg
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Pickles for topping
Instructions:
Mix pancake ingredients, cook pancakes until golden brown, and set aside.
Season beef, shape into patties, and cook. Add cheddar cheese to melt.
Stack pancakes and burgers, alternating layers.
Garnish with pickles and serve warm.
#StackedGoodness #SavoryPancakes #BrunchGoals
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until just combined. A few lumps are fine. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook until golden brown. You’ll need 8 medium-sized pancakes. Keep them warm in a low oven.
3. Form and Season the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape into patties slightly wider than your pancakes (they will shrink). Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Cook the Cheeseburgers: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet to melt.
5. Assemble the Stack: Place one pancake on a plate. Top with a cheeseburger patty. Add another pancake, then another patty. Repeat to create a double-stack, finishing with a final pancake on top.
6. Garnish and Serve: Add pickles on top of the final pancake. Secure the stack with a long skewer if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stack as the ultimate weekend brunch or fun dinner. Drizzle the entire stack with maple syrup for a classic sweet-savory combo, or with a side of ketchup and mustard for dipping. Pair with crispy hash browns, a fresh green salad, or fruit salad to balance the richness. For a true diner-style experience, add a fried egg on the very top.
How-to Summary
Make fluffy pancakes and set aside. Season beef, form into patties, and pan-fry until cooked through, topping with cheddar cheese to melt. Assemble by stacking pancakes and cheeseburgers in alternating layers. Top with pickles and serve warm for a delicious sweet-savory fusion meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made pancakes or frozen burgers? Yes, for a shortcut, use high-quality frozen pancakes and pre-formed beef patties. Cook according to package directions and assemble. The flavor is best with homemade, but this works in a pinch.
How do I prevent the stack from falling over? Ensure your pancakes are uniformly sized and not too large. Use a long skewer or toothpick through the center to stabilize the layers during assembly and serving.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the regular pancake mix with your favorite gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients, like seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
What other cheeses work well? Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack, Swiss, American, or even blue cheese crumbles can add a delicious twist. Choose a cheese that melts well.
How can I add more flavor to the beef patties? Mix finely diced onions, Worcestershire sauce, or a dash of smoked paprika into the ground beef before forming the patties for an extra flavor boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the pancake batter, as this develops gluten and makes pancakes tough. Do not press down on the beef patties while cooking, as this squeezes out precious juices and leads to dry burgers. Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding pancakes or patties to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Finally, assemble the stack just before serving to prevent the pancakes from becoming soggy from the burger’s steam and juices.
Conclusion
The Pancake Cheeseburger Stack is a creative and indulgent meal that brilliantly combines breakfast and dinner. Its playful layering of fluffy pancakes and juicy, cheesy burgers offers a satisfying contrast of textures and the beloved sweet-savory flavor profile. Perfect for a special weekend treat or impressing guests, this dish is as fun to make as it is to eat. Follow the step-by-step guide and tips to avoid common pitfalls, and don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite toppings. Dive into this stack of pure comfort food goodness.
