If you’re looking for a way to transform humble leftovers into something truly magical, you’re going to fall head over heels for Spaghetti Pancakes! Crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy within, these savory pancakes make the most delicious use of extra cooked pasta. Whether you top them with a little marinara or nibble them plain right out of the skillet, Spaghetti Pancakes are a quirky, craveable treat that delivers Italian-American comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Spaghetti Pancakes is how few ingredients you need, yet each one plays an essential role in building texture and flavor. Grab what you’ve got in the fridge and pantry, and let’s turn simple staples into something extraordinary!
- Cooked Spaghetti: Leftover spaghetti is perfect, but freshly made works too; the pasta forms the hearty base and soaks up all the flavors.
- Eggs: The binding power! Eggs hold everything together, making sure your pancakes are cohesive and fluffy.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty bite and helps crisp up the edges for extra flavor.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the pancakes that irresistible gooeyness in every forkful.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful of herbs adds a pop of color and brightness to balance out the cheese and pasta.
- Garlic Powder: Just a touch infuses the pancakes with savory garlic warmth.
- Salt: Essential to coax out all the flavors—don’t skip it, but feel free to adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper: For subtle background heat and aroma, it elevates the whole mix.
- Olive Oil (for frying): Ensures golden, crispy edges and a slightly fruity richness only olive oil can bring.
How to Make Spaghetti Pancakes
Step 1: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine your cooked spaghetti, eggs, both cheeses, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly—the goal is to coat every strand so you don’t end up with clumps of plain pasta or pockets of egg.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a generous swirl of olive oil. Give it a moment to shimmer; hot oil is key for those glorious crispy edges that set Spaghetti Pancakes apart.
Step 3: Form and Cook the Pancakes
Scoop about 1/3 cup of the spaghetti mixture and plop it into the skillet. Use a spatula to gently flatten it into a pancake shape. Let it cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown underneath, then flip carefully and cook the other side. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, adding more oil as the pan needs.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Transfer the hot, crispy pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels. Serve Spaghetti Pancakes immediately for the best texture, while the edges are still crunchy and the centers are meltingly cheesy.
How to Serve Spaghetti Pancakes
Garnishes
You can’t go wrong with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh basil for a burst of color and vibrance. If you adore cheese (and who doesn’t?), add a dusting of extra Parmesan just before serving. A drizzle of good olive oil or even a quick crack of black pepper over the top brings it all together.
Side Dishes
Spaghetti Pancakes pair beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance their richness. A bowl of tomato soup or a refreshing cucumber salad provide light, tangy contrast. And don’t forget warm marinara or your favorite dipping sauce on the side!
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Spaghetti Pancakes high for an impressive brunch centerpiece, or cut them into smaller rounds for kid-friendly finger food. For a twist, try serving them with poached eggs on top, or sandwiching two pancakes with mozzarella and a little pesto for a rustic Italian “grilled cheese.”
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with a few extra Spaghetti Pancakes, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days, making lunch or snack time a breeze.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll hold up for about one month. For best results, separate layers with parchment so they don’t stick together.
Reheating
To bring Spaghetti Pancakes back to life, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat with a tiny splash of olive oil for maximum crispiness. Alternatively, you can warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes; the microwave works in a pinch, but they’ll lose their crunchy charm.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, any long pasta (like linguine or fettuccine) or even short shapes work; just be sure to chop short pastas into bite-sized pieces for easier mixing and frying.
Are Spaghetti Pancakes kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the crispy-cheesy goodness, and you can sneak in finely chopped veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Serve with their favorite dipping sauce for a fun lunch.
Can I make Spaghetti Pancakes dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap regular cheese for your favorite plant-based varieties. Just make sure they melt well for the gooey effect and add a pinch more salt if needed since dairy-free cheeses can taste a bit milder.
How do I prevent the pancakes from falling apart?
Be sure to beat the eggs well and mix the batter thoroughly so everything is well-coated. Also, don’t flip the pancakes too early—let the first side form a golden crust before flipping gently.
Can I add protein to Spaghetti Pancakes?
Of course! Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, diced ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken are fun additions. Fold the protein in with the rest of the mix and enjoy a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to experience leftover pasta in a totally new way, Spaghetti Pancakes might just change your weeknight dinner game forever. Give them a try, share a stack with friends or family, and get creative with your favorite add-ins and sauces. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with Spaghetti Pancakes too!
Print
Spaghetti Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spaghetti Pancakes are a creative and delicious way to repurpose leftover pasta into a savory pancake dish. With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior, these pancakes are a delightful main course or snack option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti (preferably leftover)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat olive oil in a skillet, form pancake shapes with the mixture, and cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with marinara sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Notes
- These spaghetti pancakes are a great way to use up leftover pasta.
- You can customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
