New Year’s morning in our house is never about grand resolutions or glittery parties from the night before. This year, I wanted breakfast to feel like a little celebration no champagne, no confetti just warm, savory-sweet comfort on a plate.
And as I was flipping through an old notebook of recipe scribbles (the kind with flour fingerprints and syrupy smudges), I saw a note that read, “Dip sausage in pancake batter? Like corn dogs but breakfast?” I remember laughing at it back then but this time, it felt just right.
The kitchen filled with the sound of sizzling patties and the warm smell of vanilla and maple floating up from the pancake batter. These Cheesy Sausage Dipped Pancakes are our new New Year’s tradition. And honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if they show up next weekend too.
Short Description
Fluffy, cheesy pancake-battered sausages, pan-fried to golden perfection this fun and savory breakfast twist makes for the ultimate special morning treat.
Key Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1¼ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Protein
- 16 breakfast sausage patties
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Griddle or large skillet
- Cooking spray or oil
- Slotted spatula
- Paper towel-lined plate
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage Patties
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage patties for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until they’re deeply browned and cooked through (internal temp should be 160°F). Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir to evenly combine.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, vanilla extract, melted butter, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
Step 4: Make the Pancake Batter
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently stir until the batter is smooth with no visible lumps. Don’t overmix just until combined.
Step 5: Dip and Coat the Sausage
Preheat a griddle or large frying pan over medium-high heat and lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray or oil. Dip each cooked sausage patty into the pancake batter, turning with a fork to ensure even coating.
Step 6: Cook the Dipped Sausages
Place each dipped sausage directly onto the hot griddle. Cook for 2–3 minutes on the first side, or until bubbles begin to form on the surface. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm, with pats of butter and a drizzle of maple syrup. For an extra treat, sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheddar over the top while they’re still hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet-meets-savory flavor that satisfies every craving
- A fun twist on classic pancakes and sausage
- Great for both kids and adults
- Quick to make perfect for special breakfasts or brunch
- Easily doubled for feeding a crowd
- Can be made with turkey sausage or plant-based patties for variety
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Mistake 1: Batter too runny or thick
Solution: If the batter is too thin, whisk in 1 tbsp flour at a time until it coats the sausage. If it’s too thick, add 1 tbsp milk gradually.
Mistake 2: Sausages fall apart in batter
Solution: Let the sausage patties cool slightly before dipping. If they’re too hot, they can break apart or steam off the coating.
Mistake 3: Uneven browning or raw centers
Solution: Make sure your pan is evenly heated before adding the dipped patties. Don’t cook too many at once or the temperature will drop.
Mistake 4: Batter sticks to the pan
Solution: Use non-stick spray or lightly oil the pan before each batch to ensure easy flipping.
Mistake 5: Overcooked sausage
Solution: Since the sausage is already cooked before dipping, only cook each side long enough to brown the pancake don’t try to “cook” the sausage again.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
– Serve with extra maple syrup or honey mustard for dipping
– Add a side of scrambled eggs or a fruit salad
– Pair with freshly squeezed orange juice or a hot cup of coffee
– Make it a brunch board: add sliced cheeses, berries, and muffins
– Serve family-style on a warm platter with warm syrup in the center
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Flash-freeze dipped pancakes on a tray, then store in zip-top bags for up to 2 months.
Reheat (Oven): Preheat to 350°F and bake on a baking sheet for 8–10 minutes until hot.
Reheat (Microwave): Microwave for 30–45 seconds, but note this may soften the pancake exterior.
Reheat (Air Fryer): Reheat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for a crispier finish.
FAQs
1. Can I use pancake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?
Yes! Use your favorite mix and add a splash of vanilla and maple syrup for flavor depth.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook and dip the sausages the night before, then fry them in the morning for best texture.
3. What kind of sausage works best?
Breakfast sausage patties are ideal, but links can work if flattened. Turkey, chicken, or plant-based are all great swaps.
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and double check your baking powder is gluten-free.
5. Why is my batter not sticking to the sausage?
Make sure the sausage is cooled slightly and dry (pat off any grease). Cold, dry sausage coats better.
Tips & Tricks
– Add shredded cheddar cheese directly into the pancake batter for extra gooeyness.
– If making for kids, use mini sausage patties and serve on skewers.
– Warm your maple syrup before serving it enhances flavor and makes every bite more indulgent.
– For a crispy edge, add a touch of butter to the pan right before placing the dipped sausage.
– Try sprinkling cooked pancakes with cinnamon-sugar for a sweet finish.
Recipe Variations
Jalapeño Cheddar Version
Add ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar and 1 finely diced jalapeño to the batter.
Follow the same cooking steps. Great for those who like a little morning heat.
Cornbread Style
Replace half the flour with cornmeal for a Southern spin.
Add 2 tablespoons honey to the wet ingredients. Cook as directed.
Veggie Lover’s Twist
Use plant-based sausage patties and mix 2 tablespoons finely chopped spinach or chives into the batter.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor depth.
Sweet Brunch Version
Mix in mini chocolate chips or blueberries into the batter.
Skip the cheese for this version and serve with whipped cream and fruit.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Sausage Dipped Pancakes turned our quiet New Year’s morning into something unexpectedly delightful. They’re playful without being complicated, indulgent but still practical something you could serve at a brunch party or whip up on a lazy weekend. They don’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen, just a little patience and a hot griddle.
It’s comfort food, but with a little surprise in every bite. The best part? You can easily tailor it to your own tastes spicy, cheesy, sweet, or simple.
Cheesy Sausage Dipped Pancakes
Print ThisIngredients
- Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Wet Ingredients
- 1¼ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Protein
- 16 breakfast sausage patties
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage Patties
Brown sausage patties in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until fully cooked (160°F). Drain on a paper towel and let cool.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, vanilla, melted butter, and maple syrup until smooth.
Step 4: Make the Batter
Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined and smooth.
Step 5: Dip the Sausages
Preheat a greased griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Dip each sausage patty into the batter, coating evenly.
Step 6: Cook
Place dipped patties on the hot surface. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and the batter is cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with butter and maple syrup. Optional: sprinkle shredded cheddar on top while hot.
