Diner Recipe

Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, kosher salt and black pepper until evenly combined.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl whisk the milk, egg, vegetable oil and vanilla extract until smooth and homogeneous.

Make batter and cook

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; a few small lumps are fine. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small pat of butter to coat. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook until bubbles form and edges set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more until golden. Keep warm on a plate tented with foil while you finish other components.

Form patty

In a bowl combine the ground beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce and 1/2 tsp salt. Gently mix just until combined; do not overwork. Shape into a 3–4 inch round patty about 3/4 inch thick and make a shallow indentation in the center to help it stay flat while cooking.

Sear and finish

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil. When shimmering, place the patty in the skillet and cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes until a browned crust forms. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes on the second side for medium doneness. Place two slices of American cheese on the patty in the final minute and cover the skillet briefly to melt the cheese. Remove patty to a plate and loosely tent with foil to keep warm.

Sauté mushrooms

In the same skillet over medium heat add a small pat of butter (or a quick wipe of oil if the pan is dry). Add sliced mushrooms and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened and browned; season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove to a small bowl.

Assemble diner-style stack

Place two pancakes stacked on a plate to create the 'diner' base. Spread ketchup and mustard on the top pancake. Set the melted-cheese-topped beef patty on the pancakes. Top with sautéed mushrooms, tomato slices, lettuce leaf and dill pickle slices. Serve immediately with extra ketchup or mustard on the side.