These Ham and Cheese Pancakes are a fun and savory alternative to your usual breakfast fare. Packed with diced ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions, each bite is a savory delight. The fluffy pancakes offer a satisfying texture, and the melted cheese adds richness, making them perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, these pancakes can also be served with a dipping sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup to contrast the salty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a brunch gathering, or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, these pancakes will quickly become a favorite.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Butter or oil for cooking
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter should be thick.
- Gently fold in the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the pancakes from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Repeat the process until all the batter is used.
- Serve the pancakes warm with additional cheese or your favorite dipping sauce if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ham and Cheese Pancakes: A Savory Twist on Breakfast Favorites
When you think of pancakes, you might immediately envision a stack of fluffy, syrup-drizzled treats, perhaps topped with fresh fruit or whipped cream. But what if we told you there was a way to enjoy pancakes that’s just as delicious and far more savory? Introducing Ham and Cheese Pancakes, the perfect dish for anyone looking to step outside the world of sweet breakfast options and embrace a more filling, savory meal. These pancakes are a combination of two beloved ingredients—ham and cheese—wrapped in the comfort of a warm, fluffy pancake. They’re ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner that will leave everyone at the table satisfied.
The Rise of Savory Pancakes
Savory pancakes have been growing in popularity around the world as a delicious alternative to traditional sweet pancakes. Originating in various cultures, savory pancakes have different forms and ingredients depending on the region. From the Korean-style pancakes (known as jeon) to the French crêpes filled with savory delights like ham, cheese, and vegetables, savory pancakes bring a world of flavor and creativity to the table.
What makes savory pancakes so appealing is their versatility. Unlike their sweet counterparts, savory pancakes can be filled with a variety of ingredients that suit a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re a fan of cheese, ham, vegetables, or even seafood, savory pancakes can be adapted to accommodate all types of savory fillings. The balance of the rich, cheesy flavors with the light, airy texture of the pancakes makes them an irresistible meal at any time of the day.
Ham and Cheese: A Classic Combo
There’s a reason ham and cheese have stood the test of time as a classic combination. The saltiness and umami of the ham pair beautifully with the rich, creamy flavor of cheese, creating a savory taste that satisfies both the hunger and the palate. These two ingredients are often found together in sandwiches, omelets, and other comfort foods. In this recipe, we’ve taken this beloved duo and transformed it into a hearty pancake that will become a household favorite in no time.
Ham and cheese pancakes are perfect for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful breakfasts but want something a little different from the usual options. The mild, slightly salty ham complements the creamy, sharp cheddar cheese in each bite. By adding green onions, you get a slight bite of freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love Ham and Cheese Pancakes
One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can whip up a batch of savory pancakes in no time. This makes them an ideal breakfast or brunch option for busy mornings or even a quick dinner. The recipe is also highly customizable—feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, meats, or herbs to make it your own.
Another great thing about these pancakes is how satisfying they are. Unlike light, airy sweet pancakes that might leave you craving more an hour later, ham and cheese pancakes are filling and will keep you full for longer. They’re packed with protein and healthy fats, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to start the day with a nourishing meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While these savory pancakes are often associated with breakfast or brunch, they can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They make a wonderful addition to a weekend brunch spread, and they’re also great for a light, savory dinner. In fact, you could serve them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
If you’re hosting a brunch or having friends over for a casual meal, these pancakes are an excellent choice. They’re easy to prepare in large batches and can be served with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or even a drizzle of maple syrup if you enjoy a balance of savory and sweet. These pancakes can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings.
Customization Options
One of the things that makes ham and cheese pancakes so great is the versatility of the recipe. While the traditional combination of ham, cheese, and green onions is delicious, you can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas for how you can customize your savory pancakes:
- Cheese: While sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this dish, feel free to get creative with different types of cheese. Swiss cheese, Gruyère, or even mozzarella can all bring unique flavors to the pancakes.
- Meat: If you prefer turkey over ham, or you want to add bacon or sausage, these ingredients can easily be incorporated into the recipe. The key is to use cooked meats that will blend well with the pancake batter.
- Vegetables: Add a little more freshness and crunch by including vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms in the pancake batter. These veggies will not only add flavor but will also provide additional nutrients to your dish.
- Herbs and Spices: You can enhance the flavor of your pancakes with a variety of herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can complement the ham and cheese perfectly, while a sprinkle of black pepper or chili flakes can give the pancakes a little extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Ham and cheese pancakes can be served on their own as a hearty breakfast or brunch, but they’re also great when paired with side dishes or sauces. If you’re serving them for brunch, consider adding a side of mixed greens or roasted potatoes. If you prefer to keep it simple, a dollop of sour cream or a small bowl of salsa can make the pancakes even more enjoyable.
For an extra indulgent touch, you can also top the pancakes with a poached egg. The runny yolk will create a rich sauce that complements the savory flavors of the ham and cheese. Alternatively, a drizzle of maple syrup on top of the pancakes can create a wonderful contrast between savory and sweet.
A Dish for All Ages
Ham and cheese pancakes aren’t just for adults—they’re also a hit with kids. The mild flavors of ham and cheese are familiar to little ones, and the pancake format makes the dish fun and easy to eat. Whether you’re serving them as a weekend treat or a simple dinner, these pancakes are sure to be a hit with the entire family.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to being delicious, ham and cheese pancakes are a fairly nutritious meal option. They’re rich in protein from the ham and eggs, as well as healthy fats from the cheese and butter. The addition of green onions provides some vitamins and minerals, and if you decide to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms, you’ll increase the nutritional value even more. While pancakes are often seen as a guilty pleasure, these savory pancakes are a more balanced option compared to their sweet counterparts, especially when you add plenty of filling ingredients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ham and Cheese Pancakes are a creative and savory take on a beloved breakfast classic. They offer a unique way to enjoy pancakes that are both delicious and filling, making them perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, a fun brunch idea, or a simple dinner, these pancakes will not disappoint. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your tastes, this recipe is sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation. With endless possibilities for variations and toppings, you can make these pancakes as simple or as gourmet as you like. Enjoy them on their own or serve them with a variety of sides and sauces for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.