Ham & Cheese Pancakes - knedir Recipes

The delightful pairing of creamy melted gruyère with rich, smoky ham wrapped in a tender, golden crêpe is a dish that sings comfort. These Ham & Cheese Pancakes take a French classic and make it family-friendly and fuss-free.

Ideal for brunch, light supper, or even an indulgent breakfast, this recipe comes together quickly with pantry staples. Serve them as-is or with a crisp green salad and you’ve got an easy but impressive plate for any occasion. They’re also a clever way to reuse leftover ham in the most delicious way possible.

Full Recipe:

100g plain flour
1 large egg
300ml semi-skimmed milk
1 tsp vegetable oil (plus extra for frying)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
100g gruyère cheese, grated
100g smoked ham, shredded
½ tsp ground black pepper
A handful of chopped chives (optional)

Directions:

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, egg, milk, oil, mustard, and pepper until smooth. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes.
Heat a lightly oiled non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in a ladleful of batter, swirling to coat the base. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden. Repeat with remaining batter.
Sprinkle grated gruyère and smoked ham over half of each crêpe while still in the pan. Fold the other half over to enclose the filling.
Let it cook gently until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped chives if using.
Serve hot, folded or rolled, with a green salad or mustardy dressing on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

The roots of crêpes can be traced back to France, where they are an integral part of the country’s culinary heritage. Traditionally made with wheat flour, eggs, milk, and butter, crêpes have been enjoyed for centuries, often filled with both sweet and savory ingredients. The dish likely originated in Brittany, a region in northwest France, where buckwheat crêpes (or “galettes”) became a staple. Over time, crêpes spread across France and beyond, with each region adding its own spin.

The combination of ham and cheese inside crêpes is thought to be a French twist on classic “croque-monsieur,” the famed grilled ham and cheese sandwich. While the exact origin of savory crêpes filled with ham and cheese is difficult to pinpoint, they are undoubtedly a beloved part of French bistro cuisine and are often served as a casual meal or street food. This dish epitomizes the French ability to elevate simple ingredients into a refined, yet accessible meal.

While crêpes filled with ham and cheese have a strong connection to French cuisine, similar dishes are enjoyed in other parts of the world. The pairing of ham and cheese, in various forms, is a global favorite, and many cultures have their own versions of savory pancakes, from Italy’s “crespelle” to Russia’s “blini.”

Variations and Adaptations

While the classic combination of ham and cheese is beloved, there are numerous ways to customize this recipe depending on your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few popular variations:

Cheese Choices: Gruyère cheese is a staple in many French savory crêpes, but you can experiment with different cheeses. Swiss cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of blue cheese can add an exciting twist.
Ham Substitutes: If you’re looking to reduce sodium or avoid pork, you can easily swap out the ham for turkey, chicken, or even smoked salmon for a gourmet touch.
Vegetarian Options: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or fresh tomatoes for an equally satisfying filling. Adding herbs like fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil can elevate the flavors.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try adding a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Herbs and Seasonings: The flavor profile can be adjusted with a variety of herbs and spices. Try fresh chives, parsley, or tarragon to complement the cheese, or even a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for depth.

Nutritional Information

Ham & Cheese Pancakes are a delightful indulgence, but they also offer a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional elements:

Calories: Each pancake contains around 285 calories, making it a satisfying meal that isn’t overly heavy.
Protein: The ham and cheese in this dish provide a good amount of protein, with around 15g per serving. This is ideal for muscle repair and overall body function.
Carbohydrates: The flour in the pancakes provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary energy source. One serving offers around 20-25g of carbs.
Fat: The cheese adds healthy fats to the dish, while the use of vegetable oil in the pancakes helps maintain a reasonable fat content. There are around 15g of fat per serving, with 7g coming from saturated fat.
Vitamins and Minerals: Gruyère cheese is rich in calcium, a vital mineral for bone health, while ham provides essential B-vitamins, particularly B12, which plays a key role in red blood cell production and maintaining nerve health.

While this recipe isn’t low in calories or fat, the nutrient density makes it a wholesome treat when enjoyed in moderation. For a healthier version, consider using a lower-fat cheese or opting for whole grain flour in the pancake batter.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ham & Cheese Pancakes are versatile enough to be served as a complete meal on their own or paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate the dining experience:

Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would perfectly balance the richness of the ham and cheese crêpes. Consider arugula, spinach, or a simple mixed greens salad.
Tomato Soup: For a comforting combination, serve these pancakes alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the richness of the pancakes.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts, make a fantastic side dish. Their earthy flavors provide a nice contrast to the savory filling.
Herb-Infused Drink Pairings: A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of ham and cheese. Alternatively, a refreshing herbal iced tea or lemonade can offer a zesty contrast to the pancakes’ indulgent taste.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure that your Ham & Cheese Pancakes turn out perfectly, here are a few expert tips:

Rest the Batter: Let the pancake batter rest for at least 10 minutes before using it. This allows the flour to hydrate fully and results in a smoother batter.
Avoid Overfilling: When adding the ham and cheese to the pancakes, avoid overstuffing them. A modest filling ensures that the pancake holds together and doesn’t become too heavy or soggy.
Use the Right Pan: For the best results, use a non-stick frying pan or crêpe pan for cooking. This helps achieve that perfect golden, crispy texture.
Cook on Medium Heat: Crêpes cook best over medium heat. If the pan is too hot, the pancakes may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
Experiment with Flavor: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a thin layer of Dijon mustard to the batter or sprinkle a small amount of smoked paprika inside the filling to enhance the flavor profile.

Potential Health Benefits

While Ham & Cheese Pancakes are undeniably delicious, they also come with some health benefits thanks to their wholesome ingredients:

Protein: The ham and cheese provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Calcium: The gruyère cheese is packed with calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Calcium also helps maintain proper muscle function.
B-Vitamins: The ham in the recipe provides important B-vitamins, including B12, which is essential for energy production and brain health.
Healthy Fats: The cheese contributes healthy fats that are necessary for cell function and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

While the dish is relatively rich in calories and fat, its nutritional value makes it a balanced option for a satisfying meal. Enjoying it in moderation, paired with fresh vegetables or a salad, will provide you with a nutritious and filling dining experience.

Conclusion

Ham & Cheese Pancakes are a comforting, easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend brunch or a quick dinner, these savory crêpes offer a delicious combination of flavors that are sure to please. With endless variations and the ability to personalize the recipe to suit your tastes, it’s a versatile dish that will quickly become a family favorite. So, next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!