If you’re a fan of traditional American breakfast foods, you’re likely familiar with Scrapple. This savory dish from pork scraps and cornmeal is a breakfast staple in many households. However, if you’ve ever tried cooking Scrapple, you might have encountered a common issue: the dreaded falling apart. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to cook up a delicious batch of Scrapple only to disintegrate into a mushy mess. But fear not, you can cook Scrapple like a pro with a few simple tips! So, if you are wondering how to cook Scrapple without it falling apart…read ahead and find out!

Table of Contents

What is Scrapple?

Scrapple is a unique and flavorful dish popular in certain regions of the United States. This dish combines pork scraps with cornmeal, flour, and a blend of spices, which is then shaped into a loaf and sliced for frying. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, Scrapple’s distinct flavor and texture make it a popular choice for those looking for something slightly different for their morning meal.

Why Does Scrapple Fall Apart?

If you’re a fan of Scrapple, you may have experienced the frustration of trying to cook it only to have it fall apart. There are a few reasons why this may happen. These are:

The mixture may not have been formed properly. If the mixture is too wet or too dry, it can lead to the Scrapple falling apart during the cooking process.
The heat may not have been evenly distributed during the cooking process. If one side of the Scrapple is cooking faster than the other, it can cause it to fall apart when you try to flip it over.
The type of pan you use can also impact the Scrapple’s ability to hold its shape. A non-stick pan can make it easier to flip the Scrapple without it sticking and falling apart.

Different Ways of Cooking Scrapple

There are several techniques you can use to prepare Scrapple, each with its unique flavor and texture. Here are a few examples:

Pan-fried Scrapple: This is perhaps the most common way to cook Scrapple. Simply slice the Scrapple into thin rounds and pan-fry until crispy on both sides. This method produces a crunchy exterior with a soft, savory center.

Grilled Scrapple: If you’re looking to add some smoky flavor to your Scrapple, try grilling it. Cut the Scrapple into thick slices and grill over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. The grill marks add a visually appealing touch, and the smoky flavor pairs well with the savory Scrapple.

Baked Scrapple: Simply slice the Scrapple and arrange them in a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the Scrapple is golden brown on top. Baked Scrapple has a slightly softer texture than pan-fried or grilled Scrapple, but it’s equally delicious.

What to Serve with Scrapple

Here are some ideas for what to serve with Scrapple:

Eggs: Scrapple and eggs are a classic combination. Fry or scramble up some eggs to serve alongside your Scrapple.
Hash browns: Another breakfast classic, hash browns pair perfectly with Scrapple. Try making them crispy and seasoned with herbs or spices for added flavor.
Sautéed vegetables: Adding some sautéed vegetables like peppers, onions, or mushrooms can help balance out the richness of the Scrapple.
Grilled cheese: Grilled cheese and Scrapple might seem like an unconventional pairing, but the gooey cheese and savory Scrapple can be a delicious combination.
Salad: A light salad can help balance out the heaviness of the Scrapple. Try a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
Toast: Toast can be a simple and easy side dish that pairs well with Scrapple. Try some whole-grain bread for added nutrition.
Sausage: If you want to double down on the meaty breakfast options, sausage is a great choice to serve alongside Scrapple.
Coffee or tea: A hot cup of coffee or tea can be the perfect beverage to accompany your Scrapple breakfast.