Description

These savory Pancetta Parmesan and Black Pepper Popovers are light, airy, and packed with flavor. Crispy on the outside with a tender, cheesy interior, they combine the smoky saltiness of pancetta with the sharp richness of Parmesan and a touch of freshly ground black pepper. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or a delightful side to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet 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)

Other Ingredients

1 cup cooked pancetta or bacon, chopped
Cooking spray for greasing the pan
Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the bottom third. Place your popover or muffin pan in the oven to heat until smoking hot, about 2-3 minutes. This step is critical to achieving the signature popover rise.
Heat the Milk: In a 4-cup microwave-safe measuring bowl, heat the milk in 30-second intervals until it reaches 125°F (about 1 minute), ensuring it doesn’t boil. Set it aside once warmed.
Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs together with the freshly ground black pepper until smooth. Slowly pour in the warm milk while continuing to whisk steadily to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gradually add the flour and whisk until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Fill the Pan: Remove the hot pan from the oven and spray generously with cooking spray. Fill each mold about three-quarters full with batter. Evenly distribute the cooked pancetta into each cup and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Reserve some Parmesan for sprinkling after baking.
Bake the Popovers: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the popovers are puffed and a deep golden brown. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent collapsing.
Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the popovers from the pan. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan and chopped chives on top for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy delight.

Notes

Ensure the pan is extremely hot before adding the batter; this hot start is crucial for the popovers to rise properly.
Do not open the oven door while baking as this can cause the popovers to collapse.
You can substitute bacon for pancetta if preferred.
Chopped chives garnish is optional but adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and color contrast.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 popover (approximate)
Calories: 170 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 350 mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg