These Cheesy Yellow Squash Pancakes are soft, tasty, and packed with flavor! They’re made with fresh yellow squash and melted cheese, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Who knew veggies could be so fun? I love serving these pancakes with a dollop of sour cream or some fresh herbs on top. It feels like a little party on my plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. If you can’t find zucchini works too! It gives a similar texture and taste. I prefer peeling for a smoother batter, but keeping the skin adds a pop of color.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even feta can bring a different flavor profile. I sometimes use a blend for more variety.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can replace it with whole wheat flour for more fiber or gluten-free flour if needed. Just make sure to check the measurements since some blends behave differently.
Milk: Regular milk works well, but you could also use almond milk or any other non-dairy alternative to fit dietary preferences.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture For Pancakes?
Achieving just the right texture in pancakes is all about mixing! Overmixing can make pancakes tough. Here’s a handy tip:
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until they are just blended. A few lumps are okay!
- Let the batter rest for a few minutes. This helps with fluffiness.
- Make sure your skillet is at medium heat – too hot and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, fluffy pancakes every time!
Cheesy Yellow Squash Pancakes Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium yellow squash, peeled and grated
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil, plus extra for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash. Once grated, place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This helps prevent the pancakes from becoming too watery.
2. Make the Dry Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This will ensure your dry ingredients are well blended before adding the wet ingredients.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the milk and melted butter or vegetable oil, mixing everything well until it’s combined.
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are some lumps; don’t overmix!
5. Add the Good Stuff:
Now, fold in the grated yellow squash and shredded cheddar cheese until they are evenly mixed into the batter.
6. Heat the Skillet:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a little butter or vegetable oil to ensure the pancakes don’t stick.
7. Cook the Pancakes:
Scoop about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Gently spread the batter to form nice round shapes.
8. Flip Time!
Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes on one side. You’ll know they are ready to flip when bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the pancakes to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed. Serve warm and consider adding toppings like sour cream, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese for a delicious touch!
Enjoy these fluffy, cheesy yellow squash pancakes as a savory breakfast or a delightful snack!
FAQ About Cheesy Yellow Squash Pancakes
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pancakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and give it a good stir before cooking as it may thicken while sitting.
What Can I Serve with These Pancakes?
These pancakes are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with toppings like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or avocado. They pair well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
