Today, I’ll show you how to make a delicious Savory Pancake Casserole that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion. This dish combines layers of fluffy pancakes with a hearty meat and vegetable filling, topped with a creamy Bechamel sauce and melted cheese. Let’s get started!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Shopping List
- Eggs (4)
- Salt
- Milk (16 fluid ounces or 500 milliliters)
- Flour (3 tablespoons)
- Olive oil
- White onion (1 small)
- Garlic cloves (2)
- Ground beef (16 ounces or 500 grams)
- Mushrooms (7 ounces or 200 grams)
- Bell pepper (1)
- Tomato (1 large)
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Vegetable oil
- Butter (2 ounces or 70 grams)
- Nutmeg
- Soft cheese (8 ounces or 200 grams)
Ingredients
Pancake Batter:
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 fluid ounces (200 milliliters) milk
- 3 tablespoons flour
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Filling:
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 small white onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 16 ounces (500 grams) ground beef
- 7 ounces (200 grams) mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Bechamel Sauce:
- 2 ounces (70 grams) butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 10 fluid ounces (300 milliliters) milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Assembly:
- 8 ounces (200 grams) soft cheese, grated
- Fresh herbs and cherry tomato halves for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Pancake Batter:
- Break 4 eggs into a bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and beat the eggs until smooth.
- Pour in 6 fluid ounces (200 milliliters) of milk and mix until smooth.
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour and mix until you get a smooth batter. Set the bowl aside.
Prepare the Filling: 5. Heat olive oil in a frying pan. 6. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until golden brown. 7. Add the grated garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. 8. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. 9. Add the chopped mushrooms, bell pepper, and tomato. 10. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. 11. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Pancakes: 12. Heat a frying pan and brush it with vegetable oil. 13. Pour a portion of the pancake batter into the pan, spreading it evenly. 14. Cook the pancakes, turning them over to cook evenly on both sides. Transfer to a plate. You should have about 5 pancakes.
Prepare the Bechamel Sauce: 15. Melt 2 ounces (70 grams) of butter in a saucepan. 16. Add 3 tablespoons of flour and mix with a whisk. 17. Gradually add 10 fluid ounces (300 milliliters) of milk, stirring constantly. 18. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of nutmeg. Stir until smooth and thickened.
Assemble the Casserole: 19. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 20. Line a springform baking pan with parchment paper and grease with vegetable oil. 21. Place the first pancake on the bottom of the pan. 22. Spread a layer of Bechamel sauce over the pancake. 23. Add a layer of meat and vegetable filling. 24. Sprinkle grated cheese on top. 25. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of pancake topped with grated cheese.
Bake: 26. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve: 27. Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting into slices. 28. Garnish with fresh herbs and cherry tomato halves. 29. Serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the pancake batter is smooth to achieve even cooking.
- Cook the filling ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps in the Bechamel sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Vegetables: Offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Ground Beef: A good source of protein and iron.
- Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- High Protein: Rich in protein from eggs, beef, and cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and stored in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Layers: Enjoy the combination of fluffy pancakes, savory filling, and creamy Bechamel sauce.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for holidays or special occasions.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Conclusion
This Savory Pancake Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of fluffy pancakes, a hearty meat and vegetable filling, and a creamy Bechamel sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe!
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