If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy, savory, and bursting with fresh flavors plus a gooey cheesy twist, this Cheesy Scallion Pancakes Recipe is an absolute winner. It takes the beloved classic scallion pancake and upgrades it with melty mozzarella, crunchy sesame seeds, and just a hint of spice from gochugaru. The dough is tender yet crisp, the scallion filling is aromatic and fresh, and the cheese takes every bite to another level. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a cozy meal at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round smooth dough ball with a light beige color is placed in the center of a clear glass bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. The dough looks soft and slightly floured, with some flour dusted inside the bowl on the sides. The overall scene is bright with soft natural light, showing the simple preparation stage of dough resting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple pantry essentials that come together for a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each component plays a key role in bringing the scallion pancakes to life, from the silky dough to the fragrant, cheesy filling and the golden crust.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough; it provides that chewy yet crisp texture you want in a pancake.
Diamond Crystal kosher salt: Just the right amount to season both the dough and the pancakes for depth of flavor.
Boiling water: Used to form the dough, giving it a tender, slightly elastic consistency.
Sesame oil: Adds a subtle nutty aroma that’s signature in Asian-inspired dishes.
Scallions (thinly sliced): The star ingredient, bringing freshness and a mild onion bite.
White sesame seeds: For that lovely crunch and toasty flavor inside each pancake.
Gochugaru (optional): Korean chili flakes that add a gentle spicy kick without overpowering.
Canola oil: Used for frying and rolling, it’s neutral in flavor and gives a perfect crisp exterior.
Low moisture mozzarella (grated): Melts beautifully to create those irresistible cheese pulls everyone dreams about.

How to Make Cheesy Scallion Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the flour and kosher salt in a medium bowl. Pour in boiling water and use a fork to create a rough dough. Adding sesame oil and kneading on a lightly floured surface transforms this into a smooth ball with a tender chew. The resting time lets the gluten relax, making rolling a breeze.

Step 2: Create the Scallion Filling

Combine the thinly sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and optional gochugaru in a heat-safe bowl. Pour hot canola oil over the mixture — this technique unlocks an amazing roasted aroma and softens the scallions slightly, which balances their sharpness. Stir in a bit of flour to help bind the filling.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Pancakes

Cut the dough into four equal parts and roll each into an 11 by 7-inch rectangle. Spread a generous layer of the scallion mixture and sprinkle with grated mozzarella. Rolling the dough into a long log before twisting into a tight coil is a clever trick that traps layers of cheesy scallion goodness inside, ensuring you get a bit of everything in every bite.

Step 4: Shape and Rest

After coiling, press each pancake gently between parchment sheets, then roll them out to a quarter-inch thickness. Don’t fret if some filling peeks out — those edges caramelize into perfect crunchy bites. Letting them rest for a few minutes helps maintain their shape when cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Preheat a cast iron pan over medium heat and add a splash of canola oil. Season the pancakes with salt and fry each side for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. The sizzling sound and the aroma that fills your kitchen at this moment is simply irresistible. Aim for a beautiful brown crust that seals in the melty cheese and soft scallions.

How to Serve Cheesy Scallion Pancakes Recipe

In a white bowl, there is a thick green mixture made of chopped green onions and sesame seeds. The mixture looks moist and slightly chunky, with small bits of green and white pieces clearly visible. A metal spoon is sticking out from the right side, partially covered by the green mixture. The inside of the bowl is speckled with bits of the mix, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing these pancakes with a handful of freshly chopped scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and burst of color. A drizzle of soy sauce or a dipping sauce with chili oil and vinegar can enhance the savory flavors even more, giving your pancakes a delightful tangy punch.

Side Dishes

These cheesy scallion pancakes are fantastic alongside light and fresh accompaniments like cucumber salad or pickled vegetables. For a heartier meal, pair them with a simple miso soup or a bowl of steamed rice and stir-fried greens to balance the richness of the cheese and the crispy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, cut the pancakes into bite-sized wedges and serve as finger food with dipping sauces in small bowls. They also work wonderfully layered with other Asian-inspired dishes in a bento lunch box or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover scallion pancakes wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to two days. Before storing, make sure they have cooled completely to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, simply reheat to crisp them back up.

Freezing

These pancakes freeze beautifully. After shaping them, place the pancakes on a tray in the freezer individually until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can cook just the amount you want later without any fuss, perfect for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, the best approach is to pop them in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil over medium heat. This method crisps up the exterior while warming the inside thoroughly, keeping the cheesy center luscious and melty. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pancakes soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! Mozzarella’s mild melting quality works great, but you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mild cheddar, or even a blend. Just choose one that melts well and won’t overpower the scallion flavor.

Is gochugaru necessary for this recipe?

Gochugaru adds a lovely gentle spice that balances richness, but it’s totally optional. If you prefer no heat, feel free to skip it and still enjoy deliciously savory pancakes.

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

The dough relies on all-purpose flour for its texture, so gluten-free versions require a different flour blend and adjustments. If you want to try, look for gluten-free flour mixes designed for bread or pastry, but expect some differences in chewiness.

What’s the best oil to fry the pancakes?

Canola oil works wonderfully due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point. You could also use vegetable oil or sunflower oil if that’s what you have on hand. Avoid oils with low smoke points like extra virgin olive oil.

How do I prevent the pancakes from getting soggy?

Keeping the heat at medium allows the pancakes to crisp evenly without burning, and using enough oil ensures a golden, crunchy exterior. Also, don’t cover them immediately after cooking to avoid trapped steam which can soften the crust.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Scallion Pancakes Recipe is a flavorful, cozy crowd-pleaser that beautifully combines crispy layers, fresh scallions, and stretchy cheese. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these pancakes bring warmth and joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how addictive handmade cheesy scallion pancakes can be!

Cheesy Scallion Pancakes Recipe