Cheesy Pancakes with Scallions

These cheesy savory pancakes with green onions are what I turn to when I crave something soul warming but want to whip it up fast They pair the comfort of gooey cheddar cheese with the mild bite of scallions plus a tangy lime crema that brightens every bite These always remind me of rainy weekend brunches when fragrant scallions filled the kitchen and the family gathered around waiting for the first pancake to hit the plate

The first time I cooked this recipe was on a whim when I had too many scallions on hand Since then it has become our favorite way to use up extra herbs and cheese and now everyone asks for them when they visit

Ingredients

• Green onions chopped: These add freshness and subtle allium flavor Look for firm bright green stalks with no wilting
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing the scallions which brings out extra sweetness Use good quality extra virgin if you can
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded and sharp or mild adds gooey texture and rich cheesy depth Always grate your own for best melting
• All purpose flour: Creates the classic pancake fluffiness Use white whole wheat for a nuttier flavor or more fiber
• Sugar: Just a little for balance and a hint of sweetness to bring out the cheese
• Baking powder: Essential for rise and lightness Make sure it’s fresh for best results
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors Use fine sea salt for a cleaner taste
• Milk: Any kind will do including dairy or unsweetened plant milk Room temperature milk blends more smoothly
• Egg: Lightly beaten to create structure and help everything bind together Use the freshest eggs possible for best results
• Butter: Melted into the mix for richness as well as a hint of toasty flavor Use unsalted and allow to cool slightly before mixing
• Non stick spray: Ensures pancakes are easy to flip and have those crisp edges A light coating is all you need
• Sour cream: Used for the lime crema Pick full fat for a thicker consistency
• Lime juice: Fresh squeezed only for the brightest flavor about a quarter lime is perfect
• Freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt: Needed to season the crema and balance its tang

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Green Onions:

Start by chopping your green onions thinly Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high Once the oil shimmers sauté the green onions for three to four minutes until they shrink and just begin to caramelize This brings out their sweetness and softens their bite Set aside to cool slightly

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl thoroughly whisk together all purpose flour sugar baking powder and salt The even distribution of baking powder is key for fluffy pancakes

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk the milk melted butter and lightly beaten egg until well blended The melted butter adds richness and helps the pancakes brown nicely

Create the Batter:

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture Stir gently with a spatula until everything is just coming together Small lumps are fine and avoid over mixing Add the sautéed green onions and grated cheddar cheese to the bowl then finish folding until combined This is what ensures tender pancakes

Cook the Pancakes:

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium and spray lightly with nonstick oil Scoop a quarter cup of batter for each pancake and drop onto the hot pan Cook without moving for two to four minutes The edges should look set and the bottom golden brown Flip with a thin spatula and cook one to two minutes more until both sides are browned and the inside is cooked through Transfer to a plate and keep warm

Make the Lime Crema:

In a small bowl stir together sour cream freshly squeezed lime juice a pinch of salt and black pepper Taste for balance add more lime if you want it brighter

Serve and Garnish:

Stack the pancakes on a platter and drizzle with a spoonful of lime crema Scatter extra scallions and a little more grated cheese for a fresh finish Serve immediately and enjoy every cheesy bite

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I love using extra sharp cheddar for more flavor kick and sometimes throw in a dash of chili flakes for a little heat My family knows this recipe as the special treat I always make when we need something cozy to start the day

Storage Tips

Leftover pancakes keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If you want to store them longer freeze them individually on a tray before bagging so they do not stick together Warm them up in a toaster oven or dry skillet for the best texture Fresh lime crema is best served immediately but will keep covered in the fridge for two days

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap cheddar for Monterey Jack mozzarella or another favorite cheese If you are out of scallions try finely diced chives or leeks Use vegan butter and plant milk to make these pancakes dairy free and still delicious Just keep in mind that flavor and texture may change slightly

Serving Suggestions

Pair these pancakes with crispy bacon or a soft poached egg for brunch or serve alongside a simple green salad for lunch They also make a tasty dinner with roasted vegetables on the side For extra flair top with pickled onions fresh herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt

Cultural and Historical Context

Savory pancakes have roots in many cultures from Korean pajeon to Indian cheela These pancakes take inspiration from both the American cheesy flapjack tradition and the Asian love of scallion pancakes By blending the flavors you get a dish that is both familiar and a little new with each bite

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Whip these up whenever you want to delight a crowd or simply treat yourself to something warm and satisfying Cheesy scallion pancakes never disappoint

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these cheesy pancakes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or skillet until warm. The lime crema can also be made ahead and stored separately in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with these savory pancakes?

These pancakes pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a fresh green salad, crispy bacon, fried eggs, sliced avocado, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also work well as an appetizer with the lime crema as a dipping sauce.

→ Can I use different cheese varieties?

Absolutely! While cheddar provides excellent flavor, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blue cheese for a stronger flavor profile. A combination of cheeses works beautifully too.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for these pancakes?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they'll still be delicious. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

→ What alternatives can I use for the lime crema?

If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute. For different flavor profiles, try adding chopped herbs like cilantro or chives to the crema, or replace the lime juice with lemon juice. Hot sauce or sriracha can add a nice kick as well.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes, these pancakes freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster, oven, or skillet.