The Story Behind the Dish
Every great recipe tells a story of comfort and creativity, and these Savory Ham and Cheese Pancakes are no exception. Bridging the gap between breakfast and dinner, this dish transforms the classic pancake into a hearty, satisfying meal that speaks to the universal love of melted cheese and savory fillings. It’s a recipe that embodies culinary versatility – simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to delight guests at a weekend brunch.
Ingredients Breakdown
Pancake Batter Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 150 grams (5.3 oz / 1.2 cups)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (4 grams)
- Salt: 1 pinch
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 200 ml (6.8 fl oz / 0.85 cups)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (30 ml), melted (plus extra for cooking)
Filling Ingredients
- Ham Slices: 4 slices
- Grated Cheese: 100 grams (3.5 oz)
- Suggested varieties: Emmental, Cheddar, or other melting cheese
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Pancake Batter
- Take a large mixing bowl
- Combine flour, baking powder, and salt
- Create a well in the center of dry ingredients
- Crack eggs into the well
- Gradually add milk while whisking
- Whisk carefully to prevent lumps
- Stir in melted butter
- Mix until batter is smooth and consistent
- Let batter rest for 5-10 minutes to develop flavor
- Cooking the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat
- Add a small amount of butter to coat the pan
- Use a ladle to pour a small amount of batter
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface
- Bubbles indicate it’s time to flip the pancake
- Flip carefully and cook the other side
- Each pancake should be golden brown
- Adding Ham and Cheese
- Immediately after flipping the pancake
- Place a slice of ham on half of the pancake
- Sprinkle a handful of grated cheese over the ham
- Option 1: Fold the pancake in half
- Option 2: Cover with a second pancake
- Allow cheese to melt completely
- The residual heat will help melt the cheese
- Serving
- Repeat the process with remaining batter
- Serve warm
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Optional: Add a side sauce of your choice
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (2 pancakes):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Fiber: 1-2g
Cooking Metrics:
- Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Batter Consistency: Whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps
- Pan Temperature: Medium heat prevents burning
- Cheese Melting: Let residual heat melt the cheese
- Butter Application: Use just enough to prevent sticking
- Resting Batter: Allows flour to hydrate for better texture
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives
- Substitute ham with bacon
- Use turkey or chicken slices
- Try vegetarian options like grilled vegetables
- Cheese Variations
- Experiment with different melting cheeses
- Try gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella
- Mix multiple cheese types for complex flavor
- Dietary Modifications
- Use gluten-free flour
- Substitute milk with plant-based alternatives
- Use low-fat cheese for lighter version
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make the batter in advance? A: Yes! Prepare batter up to 24 hours ahead. Store in refrigerator and whisk before use.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Q3: Can I freeze these pancakes? A: Yes! Cool completely, separate with parchment, and freeze for up to 1 month.
Q4: What can I serve with these pancakes? A: Pair with green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.
Q5: Can I make these pancakes vegetarian? A: Replace ham with sautéed vegetables or meat alternatives.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store for 2-3 days
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Warm in skillet to maintain texture
- Batter Prep: Can be made up to 24 hours in advance
Enjoy your Savory Ham and Cheese Pancakes!