Beef-Stuffed Pancakes with Creamy Sauce

These savory stuffed pancakes are thin and delicate, filled with a rich, spiced ground beef mixture and topped with a creamy, velvety sauce. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a delicious brunch, this dish is flavorful, satisfying, and full of comforting textures.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 500 ml (2 cups) milk
  • 125 ml (½ cup) water
  • 220g (10-11 tbsp) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for first pancake only)

For the Beef Filling

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 500g (17 oz) ground beef
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for aroma)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried shallots
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 cups (250 ml) tomato purée
  • 1 tbsp sugar

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 30-50g (1-1.5 oz) butter
  • 500 ml (2 cups) milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Pancakes

  • In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, milk, and water.
  • Gradually add flour, whisking continuously until smooth.
  • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and grease with 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
  • Pour a small amount of batter, spreading it evenly.
  • Cook for 2 minutes per side, then repeat with the remaining batter (without adding more oil).
  • Stack the pancakes and set aside.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

  • Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add ground beef and cinnamon stick (if using).
  • Season with salt, pepper, dried shallots, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
  • Stir occasionally and cook for 10 minutes on low heat.
  • Pour in tomato purée and add sugar.
  • Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove cinnamon stick before using.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  • In a saucepan over low heat, toast flour until it develops an almond aroma and light brown color.
  • Add butter, stirring vigorously until a paste forms.
  • Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Assemble the Pancakes

  • Lay a pancake flat on a surface.
  • Spread a thin layer of creamy sauce evenly.
  • Add a spoonful of beef filling, spreading it lightly.
  • Fold the edges inward, then roll up tightly like a wrap.
  • Repeat with all pancakes.

5. Serve

  • Serve warm with extra creamy sauce on the side.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables.
  • Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
  • Pair with a cup of tomato soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra crispiness, lightly pan-fry the stuffed pancakes before serving.
  • For a cheesier version, mix grated Parmesan or mozzarella into the creamy sauce.
  • For a spicier twist, add red chili flakes to the beef mixture.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from beef and eggs.
  • Rich in calcium from milk and butter.
  • Balanced in carbs, fats, and proteins for a filling meal.

Dietary Information

  • Not vegetarian (contains beef).
  • Can be made gluten-free using gluten-free flour for pancakes and sauce.
  • Can be made dairy-free by substituting plant-based milk and vegan butter.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 20g

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store assembled pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped pancakes for up to 1 month.
  • Reheating: Warm in a pan or oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft pancakes with a rich, savory filling
Creamy, flavorful sauce that enhances every bite
Great for meal prep and freezing
Comforting, hearty, and family-friendly

Conclusion

These Beef-Stuffed Pancakes with Creamy Sauce are a delicious fusion of tender pancakes, seasoned beef, and a smooth, velvety sauce. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or a special brunch, this dish will surely impress. Try them today and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes! Ground chicken or turkey works great.
  • Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder? Yes! Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves with the beef.
  • Can I make the sauce thicker? Yes! Add an extra 1 tbsp flour for a thicker consistency.
  • Can I add vegetables to the filling? Yes! Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
  • Can I bake the stuffed pancakes instead of frying? Yes! Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes for a crispier texture.
  • Can I make mini versions for appetizers? Yes! Use smaller pancakes and roll them into bite-sized portions.
  • Can I use store-bought crepes? Yes! Pre-made crepes work well.
  • Can I freeze these? Yes! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to a month.
  • Can I make this dish spicy? Yes! Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
  • How do I reheat leftovers? Warm in a pan over low heat or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes.