The Breakfast Sampler from IHOP features fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, savory sausage links, golden hash browns, and warm buttermilk pancakes, offering a hearty and satisfying morning meal with a variety of textures and flavors.
Equipments
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (optional, for bacon)
- Tongs
- Griddle or flat-top pan
- Ladle or scoop (for pancake batter)
- Potato grater or box grater (for hash browns)
- Plate or serving platter
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 sausage links
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (for pancakes)
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- Cooking spray or additional butter (for griddle)
Freshness and quality of ingredients significantly impact the flavor of your Breakfast Sampler from IHOP. Use large, farm-fresh eggs and real buttermilk to ensure fluffy scrambled eggs and tender pancakes. Russet potatoes should be grated finely for crispy hash browns, and the bacon and sausage links should be cooked to your preferred crispness without burning. Measuring ingredients precisely, especially for the pancake batter, helps achieve the right texture and rise. You can recreate the Breakfast Sampler from IHOP copycat menu right at home, customizing each component to suit your taste.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (optional, for bacon).
- Place bacon slices on a baking sheet or in skillet; cook until crispy, turning as needed.
- Cook sausage links in skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- Grate potatoes with box grater; rinse and dry.
- Heat vegetable oil in skillet; add grated potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, flipping halfway.
- In mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper for scrambled eggs.
- Pour egg mixture into nonstick skillet; cook on low, stirring gently for fluffy eggs.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for pancakes.
- In separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry pancake ingredients; mix gently until just combined.
- Heat griddle or flat-top pan; grease with cooking spray or butter.
- Ladle pancake batter onto griddle; cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
- Plate scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and pancakes on serving platter.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Breakfast Sampler from IHOP copycat menu combines fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, savory sausage links, golden hash browns, and warm buttermilk pancakes to recreate a classic, hearty morning meal. If you prefer, turkey bacon or plant-based sausage can replace traditional pork options for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly alternative. For hash browns, frozen shredded potatoes can save time without sacrificing much texture or flavor. You can use regular milk instead of buttermilk in the pancakes by adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess. Remember to adjust seasoning and cooking times when making substitutions to maintain your desired taste and consistency.
Tips
Ensure the potatoes for hash browns are thoroughly rinsed and patted dry to achieve a crispy texture without sogginess. When scrambling eggs, cook them on low heat and stir gently for fluffy, tender results rather than rubbery eggs. Avoid over-mixing the pancake batter; combining wet and dry ingredients just until blended helps retain lightness and prevents dense pancakes. Cook bacon evenly by flipping or using an oven method to maintain consistent crispness; use tongs for safe handling during cooking.
Nutritions
The Breakfast Sampler from IHOP provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats vital for a energized morning. Eggs, bacon, and sausage deliver high-quality protein and essential amino acids to support muscle repair and satiety. Hash browns and buttermilk pancakes contribute complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, aiding digestion and sustained energy release. To optimize your meal's nutrition, consider moderating sodium intake from processed meats and balancing with fresh fruit or vegetables.
Storage
To keep your Breakfast Sampler fresh, store scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, sausage links, hash browns, and pancakes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat each component gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain texture and flavor, avoiding overcooking. If you want to store longer, freezing pancakes and cooked meats individually wrapped can extend their shelf life up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the bacon for Canadian bacon or turkey bacon to reduce fat content while maintaining a savory flavor. For a twist on the hash browns, try adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers before cooking to boost flavor and texture. Replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar for a dairy-free pancake option that remains fluffy. Consider cooking scrambled eggs with a splash of cream cheese or sour cream stirred in to enhance creaminess and richness.
Allergies
The Breakfast Sampler contains common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat, which could cause reactions in individuals with allergies to these ingredients. Bacon and sausage links may include preservatives or additives like nitrates that can trigger sensitivities. Be sure to inform your server of any food allergies before ordering to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
Why this recipe?
The Breakfast Sampler menu from IHOP offers a satisfying combination of crispy bacon, savory sausage links, fluffy scrambled eggs, golden hash browns, and buttermilk pancakes, appealing to diverse breakfast preferences. Its generous portion size and balanced flavors make it a popular choice for hearty morning meals that energize your day. Recreating this dish at home allows you to customize ingredients and control quality while enjoying the comfort of a classic IHOP experience. Your homemade version can provide a cost-effective, fresh alternative to dining out without sacrificing taste or variety.