Best Pancake Mix Dinner Recipes

Introduction

Did you know your favorite pancake mix can be used for more than just breakfast? It’s true! Whether you’re rushing to make a quick dinner or craving something new, pancake mix dinner recipes can be a game-changer. Imagine turning a box of the best pancake mix into savory meals like crispy chicken tenders or fluffy dumplings. If you’ve ever wondered, “What can I make with pancake mix?”, this article will inspire you to think beyond breakfast.

Most people associate pancake mix with sweet, syrupy pancakes, but there’s so much more you can do with it. You can even use sweet pancake mix to create savory dishes for dinner! With just a few added ingredients, you’ll be making delicious meals in no time. Whether you want something quick, budget-friendly, or healthy, pancake mix has you covered. Ready to see how versatile pancake mix can be for dinner? Let’s dive into these best pancake mix dinner recipes that are perfect for busy nights or when you want to try something different.

Why Pancake Mix Works for Dinner

You might be wondering, “What can I make with pancake mix for dinner?” Surprisingly, the options are almost endless! The beauty of pancake mix lies in its versatility and simplicity. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, pancake mix allows you to create savory dishes with minimal effort. Here’s why pancake mix dinner recipes are so ideal for dinnertime:

• Versatility: One of the best things about pancake mix is how adaptable it is. You can transform it into muffins, pizza crust, dumplings, and more. It acts as the perfect base for both sweet and savory dishes, depending on what ingredients you add. From cheesy muffins to crispy chicken tenders, what can I make with pancake mix becomes a fun challenge rather than a limitation.
• Affordable: Pancake mix is a pantry staple that’s incredibly cost-effective. A single box can stretch across multiple meals, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone on a budget. Plus, the other ingredients you need for these recipes are often inexpensive or already in your kitchen. Whether you’re using the best pancake mix or a good pancake mix, the cost per meal is impressively low.
• Quick and Easy: Life gets busy, and sometimes you need a dinner option that doesn’t take hours to prepare. With pancake mix, you can throw together a meal in minutes. Since you don’t have to measure flour, baking powder, or other individual ingredients, you’ll save time in the kitchen. The simplicity of these pancake mix dinner recipes makes them ideal for weeknight meals when you need something fast.
• Great for Beginners: You don’t need advanced cooking skills to use pancake mix for dinner recipes. It’s a foolproof ingredient that yields consistently great results. If you’re just starting to explore cooking, these recipes are perfect for boosting your confidence.
• Minimal Cleanup: Another benefit of using pancake mix is that it minimizes the number of dishes and tools you need to prepare your meal. Since many of the ingredients are pre-measured, you won’t be left with a mountain of dishes at the end of dinner. This makes it a practical choice for anyone who wants a tasty meal without the hassle of an extensive cleanup.

When you’re ready to elevate dinnertime with minimal fuss, pancake mix dinner recipes are your go-to solution. Now, let’s explore some creative and delicious ways to turn your best pancake mix into mouthwatering meals.

What to make with pancake mix?

Easy Best Pancake Mix Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights

Let’s get into the heart of this article with some of the most delicious and creative ways to turn your pancake mix into savory dinners. These recipes are perfect for nights when you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Each recipe is designed to be easy, flexible, and packed with ingredients you likely already have at home.

Savory Pancake Mix Muffins (Quick & Delicious)

Muffins don’t always have to be sweet! These savory pancake mix muffins are fluffy, cheesy, and loaded with nutrients thanks to fresh spinach. They’re an ideal answer when you’re wondering what can I make with pancake mix for dinner. Perfect for serving as a side dish or a light main course, these muffins can be customized with different cheeses, vegetables, and spices to suit your taste.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, shredded cheese, and chopped spinach.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased muffin tin and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and firm to the touch.
5. Let them cool slightly before serving. These muffins pair perfectly with a green salad or as a side to a heartier dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick to prepare and bake.
• Packed with protein and vegetables.
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Pancake Mix Chicken Tenders (Crispy & Delicious)

Love crispy chicken but want to skip the complicated breading process? Look no further! These pancake mix chicken tenders use the mix as a quick and easy coating, resulting in a perfect crunch without the mess. They’re a great option when you’re short on time and craving something deliciously crispy.

Instructions:

1. Season the pancake mix with garlic powder, salt, and pepper (or any spices you prefer).
2. Coat each chicken tender in the seasoned pancake mix, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
3. Dip each tender in a mixture of beaten egg and milk, then coat again with the pancake mix for an extra-crispy layer.
4. Fry the tenders in hot oil until golden brown and crispy on the outside, or bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice, like ranch or honey mustard.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s faster and less messy than traditional breading.
• The tenders turn out perfectly crispy every time.
• Ideal for kids and adults alike.

Cheesy Pancake Mix Pizza (A Fun Twist on Pizza Night)

Who says you need traditional pizza dough for pizza night? Using pancake mix as the base creates a soft, chewy crust that’s both quick and delicious. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner idea or a fun activity with the family, this cheesy pancake mix pizza will become a new household favorite.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix the pancake mix, water, and olive oil until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more pancake mix.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a greased pizza pan.
4. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy alternative to traditional pizza dough.
• Perfect for getting creative with toppings.
• Fun for pizza nights with kids or friends.

Pancake Mix Dumplings in Gravy (A Comfort Food Classic)

When you’re in the mood for comfort food, there’s nothing better than soft, pillowy dumplings swimming in rich gravy. Using pancake mix makes these dumplings easy to prepare and ensures they turn out fluffy every time. Whether served with roasted meats or vegetables, this dish is the definition of cozy.

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer. Add in your cooked vegetables and butter, stirring until combined.
2. In a bowl, prepare the dumpling batter by combining the pancake mix with a little water until a thick batter forms.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the simmering broth to form dumplings. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
4. Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s the ultimate comfort food.
• Simple ingredients, but big on flavor.
• Perfect for warming up on chilly evenings.

Veggie Pancake Fritters (A Healthy Dinner Option)

Vegetable fritters are a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have in the fridge. These veggie pancake fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect option for a quick and healthy dinner. They’re also versatile, allowing you to swap in whatever veggies you prefer.

Instructions:

1. Grate the zucchini and carrots, then place them in a clean towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
2. In a large bowl, mix the pancake mix, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the grated vegetables and stir until everything is combined.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Form small patties with the batter and fry them in the skillet until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Drain the fritters on a paper towel-lined plate and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• A healthy, veggie-packed option.
• Quick and easy to prepare.
• Customizable with any vegetables you have on hand.

Buttermilk Pancake Crepes (A Light and Savory Meal)

Crepes are often associated with breakfast or dessert, but they can also be the base for a savory dinner. Using the best buttermilk pancake mix gives these crepes a light, tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of savory fillings. You can stuff them with roasted vegetables, cheeses, or even meats for a satisfying meal.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk pancake mix, eggs, milk, water, melted butter, and salt until smooth and thin.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
3. Pour a small amount of batter (about ¼ cup) into the skillet, swirling it around to form a thin, even layer.
4. Cook the crepe for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until lightly golden. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Fill the crepes with your favorite savory fillings, such as roasted vegetables, cheese, or ham, and fold them into quarters. Serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Light and customizable.
• Works with both savory and sweet fillings.
• Uses best buttermilk pancake mix for added flavor.

How to Choose the Best Pancake Mix for Dinner

Not all pancake mixes are created equal, especially when you’re using them for savory dinners. Here’s how to select the best pancake mix for your recipes:

• Neutral Flavors Work Best: For savory dishes, you want a pancake mix that doesn’t have too much sugar or added flavors. Look for good pancake mix with a balanced taste so you can easily add savory ingredients without overpowering the dish.
• Buttermilk Pancake Mix for a Tangy Twist: The best buttermilk pancake mix can add a slight tanginess to your savory recipes, which works well in dishes like crepes or muffins. Its flavor is subtle but elevates the dish to something more sophisticated.
• Quality Ingredients: Make sure to choose a pancake mix with simple, high-quality ingredients. Avoid mixes loaded with preservatives or artificial flavors, as they can affect the taste of your meal. Opt for brands that use real flour and natural leaveners for the best results.

If you want to explore which brands are the most reliable, check out The Kitchn’s guide to the best pancake mix for both sweet and savory dishes.

Expert Tips for Success with Pancake Mix Dinners

When cooking with pancake mix, there are a few key tips that can help you get the best results. Whether you’re making savory muffins, fritters, or dumplings, these tricks will ensure your meals come out perfect every time:

1. Don’t Overmix: One of the most common mistakes when using pancake mix is overmixing the batter. Stirring too much can make your batter tough and result in dense muffins or chewy dumplings. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Season Generously: Pancake mix can be a little bland on its own, so don’t be afraid to add extra seasoning. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs like parsley or oregano can enhance the flavor of your savory dishes.
3. Preheat Your Pan: Whether you’re frying fritters or baking muffins, a properly heated pan or oven is crucial for achieving the best texture. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the batter to get a crispy exterior on your fritters or chicken tenders.
4. Use the Right Amount of Liquid: Depending on the recipe, you may need to adjust the liquid you add to your pancake mix. If you’re making a thicker dough for pizza crust or dumplings, reduce the liquid slightly to form a more solid dough. For crepes or muffins, a thinner batter works best.

Customizing Your Pancake Mix Dinner Recipes

One of the best things about pancake mix dinner recipes is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to make a gluten-free option or add more protein, the possibilities are endless.

• Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, don’t worry! Many brands now offer gluten-free pancake mix, which can be substituted one-for-one in these recipes without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked sausage, bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef to your pancake mix dishes. This works particularly well with muffins, casseroles, or pizza.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat in your meals, add some crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to the batter. This adds a nice contrast to the subtle flavor of the pancake mix.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Pancake mix is naturally vegetarian, so it’s easy to keep these recipes meat-free by focusing on vegetables, cheeses, and plant-based proteins.

Storing and Reheating Your Pancake Mix Dinners

One of the perks of making pancake mix dinner recipes is that many of them can be stored and enjoyed as leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure your dishes are fully cooled before placing them in the fridge to avoid condensation, which can make the food soggy.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat dishes like fritters, chicken tenders, or muffins in the oven or a toaster oven. This will help maintain their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make these foods soft or rubbery. If you must use the microwave, do so at a lower power setting and for a shorter amount of time to prevent overcooking.

FAQ About Pancake Mix Dinner Recipes

Q: Can I use sweet pancake mix for savory recipes?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to balance the sweetness with savory ingredients like cheese or herbs. If your pancake mix is overly sweet, reduce the amount of sugar or add more savory elements to the dish.

Q: What’s the best buttermilk pancake mix for savory dishes?
A: The best buttermilk pancake mix brands, like Bisquick or Krusteaz, work well for both sweet and savory dishes. Their subtle tangy flavor enhances the overall taste of the recipe.

Q: Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Many of these pancake mix dinner recipes can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days. They’re great for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

Who knew a simple box of pancake mix could be so versatile? From pancake mix dumplings in rich gravy to crispy chicken tenders and savory muffins, there’s no limit to what you can create. These best pancake mix dinner recipes are perfect for nights when you need a quick, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Next time you find yourself wondering what to make with pancake mix, give one of these creative dishes a try. Whether you’re making a light dinner for yourself or feeding the whole family, these recipes are sure to become a regular part of your mealtime rotation.

For more fun ways to use pancake mix in your cooking, check out our post on “How to Make Boxed Pancake Mix Even Better” here.