The Original Grand Slam from Denny's features fluffy buttermilk pancakes, crispy bacon, savory sausage links, golden scrambled eggs, and hearty hash browns, all served together for a classic, satisfying breakfast plate.
Equipments
- Griddle
- Frying pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet or tray
- Tongs
- Plate
- Potato grater (for homemade hash browns)
- Ladle or scoop (for pancake batter)
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lb (450g) thick-cut bacon
- 1 lb (450g) pork breakfast sausage links
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
When preparing the Original Grand Slam, using buttermilk is crucial for the fluffy texture of the pancakes, as it reacts with baking soda and baking powder to create lightness. Thick-cut bacon delivers a satisfying crunch and rich flavor that complements the savory sausage links, so choose quality cuts for the best taste. Fresh russet potatoes grated and squeezed dry are key to making crisp, golden hash browns; excess moisture can prevent proper browning. Your eggs should be fresh for fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned simply with milk and black pepper to maintain the classic flavor profile. The Original Grand Slam from Denny's copycat menu replicates this balance perfectly, providing a hearty and authentic breakfast experience.
Instructions
- Preheat griddle to 375°F (190°C).
- Preheat frying pan over medium heat.
- Grate russet potatoes for hash browns.
- Squeeze excess moisture from grated potatoes.
- Toss grated potatoes with salt.
- Heat vegetable oil on griddle.
- Spread potatoes on griddle for hash browns; cook until golden and crisp, flip once.
- Place bacon strips on a baking sheet or frying pan; cook until crispy.
- Cook sausage links on frying pan or griddle until browned and cooked through, turning occasionally.
- Whisk 6 eggs with whole milk, black pepper, and salt.
- Pour egg mixture onto griddle; cook, gently stirring with spatula for scrambled eggs.
- In mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, 2 eggs, and melted butter.
- Mix wet and dry pancake ingredients until just combined.
- Ladle pancake batter onto greased griddle; cook pancakes until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Plate scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausage links, and pancakes.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Original Grand Slam from Denny's copycat menu combines fluffy buttermilk pancakes, crispy bacon, savory sausage links, golden scrambled eggs, and hearty hash browns into a timeless breakfast masterpiece. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup to achieve the desired tang and consistency. When fresh potatoes aren't on hand, frozen hash browns can be a convenient alternative, though homemade grated potatoes offer superior texture and flavor. Cooking times for bacon and sausage may vary depending on thickness and equipment, so use a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach an internal temperature of 160degF (71degC). Your spatula and tongs will be essential tools for managing the pancakes and meats for even cooking and perfect presentation.
Tips
Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from grated potatoes before cooking hash browns to achieve a crisp texture. When combining wet and dry pancake ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough pancakes. Use a ladle to portion pancake batter evenly on the griddle, cooking until bubbles form before flipping to ensure proper cooking. Remember to plate all components promptly to serve your Original Grand Slam warm and fresh for the best taste.
Nutritions
The Original Grand Slam from Denny's delivers a substantial portion of protein and carbohydrates, providing essential amino acids and energy to fuel your day. The eggs, bacon, and sausage contribute ample protein and fats, while the buttermilk pancakes and hash browns offer a rich source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber. This meal contains significant sodium levels from the cured meats and added salt, so moderation is key for heart health. Including vegetables or fresh fruit alongside your Grand Slam can help balance the meal with vitamins and minerals.
Storage
To keep your Original Grand Slam meal fresh, store each component separately in airtight containers to maintain their textures and flavors. Refrigerate cooked bacon, sausage links, scrambled eggs, and hash browns within two hours of cooking, and consume within 3-4 days for best quality. Pancakes should be stacked with parchment paper in between and can be frozen for up to two months; reheat gently in a toaster or microwave before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes in your hash browns for a slightly sweeter and nutrient-rich variation. Swap pork sausage links for turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat content while maintaining savory flavor. For a lighter pancake option, replace buttermilk with plain Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of milk, enhancing moisture and protein. Consider cooking bacon in the oven on a baking sheet lined with foil for even crispiness and less mess.
Allergies
This classic breakfast dish contains common allergens such as eggs, milk (in buttermilk, butter, and whole milk), and wheat (from all-purpose flour). The sausage and bacon may also contain preservatives or spices that could trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. If you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or pork products, be cautious when enjoying the Original Grand Slam from Denny's.
Why this recipe?
Denny's Original Grand Slam menu features a classic combination of fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and savory sausage, making it a beloved choice for breakfast enthusiasts. The meal's balanced flavors and hearty portions provide a satisfying and nostalgic dining experience that many crave. You can recreate the copycat version at home to enjoy restaurant-quality breakfast anytime while customizing ingredients to suit your taste. Its simplicity and iconic status make the Original Grand Slam a worthwhile and delicious culinary project.