This Pancake Breakfast Skillet mixes fluffy pancakes with crispy bacon, eggs, and plenty of cheesy goodness. It’s a hearty, one-pan meal perfect for a quick, satisfying breakfast or brunch.
I enjoy making this because it’s easy and fun to get everything cooked together. I’ve added extra syrup before because who doesn’t love a sweet, gooey topping?
For a healthier touch, I add some veggies like spinach or peppers. It’s a flexible recipe that works with what you have in the fridge!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast sausage: Bold or mild sausage adds flavor and protein. I like pork sausage, but turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter option. Remove casings and crumble it for even cooking. Swap with diced bacon or ham if you prefer.
Potatoes: Crispy potatoes give the skillet texture. Use diced russet or Yukon Gold potatoes; I recommend soaking raw potatoes in water for a few minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry. Sweet potatoes are a tasty, sweeter alternative.
Eggs: Eggs bind everything together and add richness. Use large eggs, and if needed, whisk in a splash of milk or water for fluffiness. For a plant-based version, try scrambled tofu seasoned well—though eggs are best here.
Cheese: Cheddar or pepper jack cheese melts into the dish, adding gooeyness. Use your favorite melting cheese, and for a healthier twist, try a reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for flavor.
How do I Brown the Potatoes Without Burning Them?
Use a large, non-stick skillet with enough oil to coat the potatoes well. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Turn potatoes only once they form a golden crust, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Step 1: Preheat your pan and add oil, letting it heat up until shimmering.
- Step 2: Spread potatoes in a single layer, avoiding crowding; this helps them crisp up.
- Step 3: Let them cook untouched for 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until golden.
How to Make Pancake Breakfast Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Skillet Toppings
- 4 slices bacon or sausage links (optional)
- 1 cup fresh berries or sliced bananas (optional)
- Maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 15 minutes. Total: 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the pancake batter
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Combine both until just blended. Do not overmix.
2. Cook the bacon or sausage
If using, cook bacon or sausages in a skillet over medium heat until crispy or cooked through. Remove and set aside. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Prepare the skillet for pancakes
Preheat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Pour batter into the skillet, spreading evenly.
4. Cook the pancakes
Cook for about 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble and serve
Top the pancakes with cooked bacon or sausage, fresh berries or bananas if desired. Drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy!
