Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist is exactly what it sounds like — the fun and unexpected combo of juicy, crispy smash burgers layered between soft, fluffy pancakes. Imagine the delicious contrast of savory beef with sweet, buttery pancakes, all topped with your favorite burger fixings like melty cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickles. It’s a playful mix that turns your usual breakfast or lunch into something totally new and exciting!
I love making these when I want to surprise my family or friends with something different. It’s always a hit because the pancakes soak up all the burger juices just right, and that crispy edge from the smash burger adds the perfect bite. Sometimes I add a little drizzle of ketchup or mayo on top to bring all the flavors together. It feels like a fun way to enjoy two classic favorites in one dish.
My favorite way to serve these burgers is alongside a fresh salad or some crispy fries if I’m feeling extra hungry. They’re super filling but also easy to customize depending on what you have on hand — add bacon, a fried egg, or extra cheese for a real treat. Smash Burger Pancakes bring a smile to the table every time, and once you try this fun twist, I bet it will become one of your go-to recipe ideas too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 mix is best for juicy burgers with a crispy edge. You can swap for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option, but the flavor will be different.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds tang. If you prefer, try American, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Pancakes: The fluffy buttermilk-style pancakes balance the savory meat well. If you’re short on ingredients, you can use store-bought pancake mix or swap milk for almond or oat milk.
Butter & Sour Cream: Butter keeps pancakes rich and adds flavor on top. Sour cream gives a cool, creamy contrast. Greek yogurt can be a nice substitute for a tangier twist.
How Do You Get That Perfect Crispy Smash Burger Texture?
The “smash” technique is what sets these burgers apart. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your skillet or griddle very hot before adding the beef balls.
- Place a loose ball of beef in the pan, then press it down firmly using a spatula or heavy flat object to make it thin.
- Don’t flip too early—let it cook 2-3 minutes so the edges get crispy and caramelized.
- Once flipped, quickly season and add cheese so it melts perfectly.
- This thin, crispy crust packed with juicy meat is the signature of a smash burger.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet – I like it for even heat and the perfect sear on the smash burgers.
- Non-stick griddle or frying pan – makes cooking pancakes easy and clean with minimal sticking.
- Spatula – a sturdy, flat spatula helps smash the burgers thin and flip them without breaking.
- Mixing bowls – for making pancake batter and seasoning the beef separately.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure your pancake batter and seasoning are just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try turkey or chicken burgers for a lighter twist; they cook quickly and pair well with savory pancake toppings.
- Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack or Swiss to add a different melt and flavor profile.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions between layers for extra savory depth.
- Mix cooked bacon bits into the patties or sprinkle on top for smoky crunch—one of my favorites!
Smash Burger Pancakes Unique Twist
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp melted butter
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
Toppings and Garnish:
- 4 tbsp butter (for pancakes and topping)
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), chopped for garnish
- Optional: crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total—15 minutes to prep your pancake batter and form the burgers, plus about 10 minutes to cook pancakes and smash burgers. You can have this delicious stack ready quickly and enjoy a unique sweet-and-savory meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir gently to mix until smooth, being careful not to overmix. Set the batter aside.
2. Cook the Pancakes:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil. Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2 to 3 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown. Keep pancakes warm while you prepare the burgers.
3. Make the Smash Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls. Heat vegetable oil or butter in a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Place one beef ball in the skillet and immediately press it down firmly with a spatula to create a thin patty. Let cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are brown and crispy.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Flip the patty, season with salt and pepper, and immediately lay a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked through. Repeat for each patty.
5. Assemble Your Burger Pancake Stack:
On a plate, start with a pancake, then add a cheese-topped smash burger. Alternate layers to build a stack of 2 to 3 pancakes and 2 burgers. Top the stack with a pat of butter and a dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs.
6. Add Optional Garnishes and Serve:
If you like, add crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions between layers or on top for extra flavor and crunch. Serve your Smash Burger Pancakes hot and enjoy this fun, tasty twist on two classics!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for the Smash Burgers?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat the beef dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that crispy sear.
Can I Make the Pancakes and Burgers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare pancakes and cooked smash burgers up to 1 day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat pancakes in a toaster or skillet and warm burgers quickly in a pan before assembling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover burger pancakes stacked with parchment paper between layers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture and melt the cheese gently.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream—it provides similar creaminess with a slight tang. You can also use regular cream cheese or even a light mayonnaise if you prefer.
