Description
These Pancetta Parmesan Black Pepper Popovers are a savory and delightfully crispy baked treat, perfect for breakfast or as a delicious snack. Infused with sharp Parmesan cheese, crispy pancetta, and a kick of freshly ground black pepper, they boast a perfect puffed texture thanks to a hot oven and specialized pan preparation. Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe yields nine golden, airy popovers that deliver rich, cheesy, and smoky flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large eggs
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked pancetta or bacon, chopped
- Cooking spray for greasing the pan
- Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the bottom third of the oven. Place your popover or muffin pan inside the oven to heat until it is smoking hot, about 2-3 minutes. This crucial step ensures the popovers rise perfectly.
- Heat the Milk: In a 4-cup microwave-safe measuring bowl, warm the milk in 30-second intervals until it reaches 125°F, approximately one minute. Be careful not to let it boil. Once warmed, set it aside.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking steadily to avoid scrambling the eggs. Slowly add the flour in increments and whisk until the batter is fully smooth and combined.
- Fill the Pan: Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and generously spray it with cooking spray. Fill each mold about three-quarters full with the batter. Evenly distribute the chopped cooked pancetta into each cup, then top each with grated Parmesan cheese. Reserve some Parmesan cheese for topping after baking.
- Bake the Popovers: Place the pan back in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes until the popovers are puffed up and have developed a deep golden-brown color. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent them from collapsing.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the popovers from the pan. Sprinkle the reserved grated Parmesan and chopped chives on top for garnish. Serve them warm to enjoy the crispy, cheesy, savory flavors fully.
Notes
- Heating the oven and pan thoroughly is key for optimal popover rise and texture.
- Do not open the oven door while baking to prevent the popovers from deflating.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor impact.
- Leftover popovers can be reheated in a toaster oven to restore crispiness.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute pancetta with sautéed mushrooms or smoked cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American