Brace yourself for a delightful twist to your breakfast or brunch routine with this Ham and Cheese Oven-Puffed Pancake. This savory dish adds a delectable puff to your meal, featuring the classic ham and cheese pairing, integrated into a fluffy pancake. Not only is it simple to prepare, but the result is also a stunning centerpiece that is sure to impress your family or guests.
The main ingredients used in this recipe are quite common and can be found in most households. However, Gruyere cheese may not be as commonly present in all homes. When shopping for ingredients, make sure to pick up some Gruyere cheese from your local supermarket. Its slightly salty and nutty flavor enhances the overall taste of the pancake, making it irresistibly good.
Key Ingredients for the Ham and Cheese Oven-Puffed Pancake Recipe
Eggs: The primary binding ingredient for this recipe.
Dijon mustard: Adds a bit of tanginess to the dish.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.
Black pepper: Gives a slight heat to the pancake.
All-purpose flour: The base of the pancake.
Whole milk: Helps in creating a smooth batter.
Gruyere cheese: Adds a cheesy layer to the pancake.
Fresh chives: Acts as a herbaceous garnish.
Unsalted butter: Used for frying and adding richness.
Ham: Gives a meaty texture and salty flavor.
One reader, Cherilynn Morrison says:
This ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake recipe is a game-changer! The savory flavors of the ham and cheese combined with the fluffy texture of the pancake make for an unforgettable breakfast. It's easy to make and always impresses my guests. A definite must-try for any brunch enthusiast!
Essential Techniques for Making Ham and Cheese Oven-Puffed Pancakes
How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F and set an oven rack in the middle position.
How to make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the flour. Gradually add the milk, whisking until the batter is smooth. Stir in the cheese and chives.
How to prepare the pan: Melt the butter in a 10-inch cast iron or nonstick ovenproof pan over medium heat. Remove from the heat and swirl the butter around.
How to bake the pancake: Carefully transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. It will appear puffed straight out of the oven but will quickly collapse.
How to serve: Cut the pancake into thin wedges and serve. Remember that the pan is hot; it's recommended to place a dishtowel or oven mitt over the handle as a reminder.
How to reheat leftovers: Leftover slices can be reheated in the microwave.
Note: Unlike a Dutch baby where the edges of the pancake will remain puffy after coming out of the oven, this pancake should puff up a bit in the oven to about 1½ inches high all over, then settle to about ½ inch high as it cools.
How To Make Ham and Cheese Oven-Puffed Pancake
Start your day right with a cheesy and hearty meal of this oven-puffed pancake, loaded with Gruyere and salty ham, and made in less than an hour!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3large eggs
- 1tbspdijon mustard
- ½tspsalt
- ¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 1cupall-purpose flour,spooned into a measuring and leveled-off
- 1¼cupwhole milk,or substitute with ¼ cup heavy cream and 1 cup skim milk
- ⅔cupgruyere cheese
- 1tbspfresh chives,finely chopped
- 3tbspunsalted butter
- 5slicesham,thinly sliced, finely diced
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and set an oven rack in the middle position.
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In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the flour. Gradually add the milk, whisking until the batter is smooth. Stir in the cheese and chives.
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Melt the butter in a 10-inch cast iron or nonstick ovenproof pan over medium heat. Remove from the heat and swirl the butter around.
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Sprinkle the ham evenly around the pan. Pour the batter over the ham, then use a fork to be sure the ham is evenly distributed.
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Carefully transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes.
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Cut the pancake into thin wedges and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 441.08kcal
- Fat: 25.25g
- Saturated Fat: 13.31g
- Trans Fat: 0.36g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.08g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.01g
- Carbohydrates: 29.55g
- Fiber: 1.51g
- Sugar: 4.21g
- Protein: 22.98g
- Cholesterol: 214.17mg
- Sodium: 687.97mg
- Calcium: 349.00mg
- Potassium: 316.71mg
- Iron: 2.61mg
- Vitamin A: 229.41µg
- Vitamin C: 1.85mg
Crucial Technique for Achieving the Perfect Puff
When preparing your ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake, it's important to gradually add the milk while whisking the batter. This ensures that the batter remains smooth and lump-free. If you add all the milk at once, the batter may become too thin and difficult to whisk, resulting in a pancake that's not as fluffy as it should be. Also, remember to evenly distribute the ham throughout the pan before pouring the batter. This ensures that every bite of your pancake has a delicious piece of ham.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Oven-Puffed Pancakes
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and measure them out before starting. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling for items.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheese instead of grating it yourself. It's a convenient shortcut that doesn't compromise on flavor.
Multi-task: While the oven-puffed pancake is baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare a simple side salad to accompany the dish.
Preheat the pan: Preheat the pan in the oven while it's heating up. This will save time and ensure that the pan is hot and ready for the batter when you're done preparing it.
Slice the ham in advance: If possible, slice the ham ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This way, it's ready to use when you start making the oven-puffed pancake.
Substitute Ingredients For Ham and Cheese Oven-Puffed Pancake Recipe
eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can be used as a substitute for eggs in this recipe to create a similar texture and binding effect. Use 1/4 cup of blended silken tofu for every egg.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for Dijon mustard to provide a similar tangy flavor with added texture from the mustard seeds.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour in the recipe.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for whole milk to create a dairy-free version of the recipe.
gruyere cheese - Substitute with swiss cheese: Swiss cheese can be used as a substitute for Gruyere cheese, providing a similar nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter to create a dairy-free version of the recipe.
ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can be used as a substitute for ham, providing a similar smoky flavor and texture in the oven-puffed pancake.
Presentation Tips for a Delightful Oven-Puffed Pancake
Elevate the pancake: Gently place the pancake on a wooden serving board to add a rustic and elegant touch to the presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped chives on top of the pancake to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few delicate edible flowers around the pancake to add a touch of sophistication and a visually stunning element to the dish.
Utilize unique serving plates: Serve the pancake on a handcrafted ceramic plate to add an artisanal and visually appealing element to the presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with cheese shavings: Shave some additional gruyere cheese on top of the pancake for a luxurious and refined finish.
Create a beautiful contrast with the ham: Fold the ham slices into intricate shapes and arrange them on the plate to create a visually appealing contrast against the golden pancake.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Oven-Puffed Pancakes
Whisk: A whisk is used to mix ingredients together, incorporating air and creating a smooth texture in the batter or mixture.
Cast iron or nonstick ovenproof pan: This type of pan is essential for baking the pancake in the oven. It ensures even heat distribution and prevents the batter from sticking to the pan.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the pancake, allowing it to puff up and cook evenly.
Microwave: The microwave is used to reheat leftover slices of the pancake.
How To Reheat Leftover Oven-Puffed Pancakes
To reheat leftover ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the pancake is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore some of the original crispiness and fluffiness of the pancake.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover slices on the wire rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the pancake is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method is quicker than using a conventional oven and works well for smaller portions.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the leftover slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until the pancake is heated through and the cheese is melted. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to the oven or toaster oven methods.
If you have a panini press or sandwich maker, you can use it to reheat and crisp up the leftover pancake slices. Preheat the press and place the slices inside. Close the lid and press for 2-3 minutes, or until the pancake is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will give you a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan, then place the leftover pancake slices in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the pancake is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will give you a crispy exterior and a warm, soft interior.
Interesting Trivia About Oven-Puffed Pancakes
The pancake is best served fresh out of the oven. However, leftover slices can be reheated in the microwave.
Is Making Oven-Puffed Pancakes at Home Cost-Effective?
This ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake recipe is a cost-effective option for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it a budget-friendly choice. The use of eggs, ham, and cheese provides a good balance of protein and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it an affordable meal option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its simplicity, taste, and affordability.
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy:
- The recipe uses whole milk and a significant amount of cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
- The use of all-purpose flour means the pancake is made with refined grains, lacking fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flour.
- Butter, although used in moderation, still contributes to the overall fat content of the dish.
- Ham is often high in sodium, which can be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
However, the recipe also includes some nutritious ingredients:
- Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Chives add a pop of flavor and a small amount of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Dijon mustard is low in calories and provides a tangy flavor without the need for excessive salt.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap whole milk for a lower-fat alternative, such as 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk.
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used, or opt for a lower-fat variety, such as part-skim mozzarella.
- Choose a low-sodium ham or replace it with a leaner protein, such as turkey or Canadian bacon.
- Increase the amount of chives or add other vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content.
- Use a smaller amount of butter or replace it with a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil.
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this tasty pancake recipe. Remember, enjoying foods in moderation and making small, incremental changes can lead to a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Oven-Puffed Pancake Recipe
This ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The incorporation of dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess, while the gruyere cheese provides a rich and nutty flavor. The pancake itself is light and airy, with a satisfying puff that makes it visually appealing. The addition of ham adds a savory element that complements the cheese beautifully. Overall, this dish is a perfect blend of savory and comforting flavors, making it an excellent choice for a special brunch or a cozy breakfast at home.
Why trust this Ham and Cheese Oven-Puffed Pancake Recipe:
This ham and cheese oven-puffed pancake recipe offers a delightful combination of savory flavors and a fluffy, puffed texture. The incorporation of gruyere cheese and ham adds a rich and satisfying taste, while the use of dijon mustard infuses a subtle tangy note. The straightforward instructions and simple ingredients make it accessible for all levels of home cooks. With its impressive rise in the oven and the comforting aroma that fills the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to any brunch or breakfast spread.
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