Dust off that waffle iron! You might be surprised to learn that it’s not just a breakfast-only appliance. While Sunday morning waffles are always a delight, it’s refreshing to know that you can get creative with its use throughout the week. Some of these ideas may raise an eyebrow – what is a wafflewich, after all? But trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
From savory potato sides to reimagining classic chicken and waffles at home, your waffle iron is capable of producing a wide range of mouthwatering dishes for any meal of the day.
Mac and Cheese Waffles
Are you a fan of adding that extra layer of crunch to your mac and cheese? You know, the kind of crispy cheese bits that elevate the dish from comforting to indulgent? If so, then you’re in luck because we’re about to take that concept to the next level. Imagine being able to experience that same delightful texture in every single bite. To achieve this, start by preparing your favorite mac and cheese recipe as usual.
Next, grab a waffle iron and spoon some of the cheesy goodness onto its surface. Don’t forget to give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent any sticking issues. Once cooked, you’ll be left with a beautifully toasted edge and a tender middle that’s just begging to be paired with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Waffle Iron Grilled Cheese
There’s nothing quite like biting into a grilled cheese sandwich, but I’ve always struggled with achieving the perfect balance between melted cheese and toasted bread. That was until I discovered the waffle iron grilled cheese method. By cooking the sandwich in an ultra-thick slice within the waffle iron, you can achieve perfectly toasted edges and melted cheese from edge to edge. For me, the key to a great grilled cheese is going all-out.
I brush my bread with garlic butter mayonnaise and fill it with freshly grated mature cheddar or Gruyere – the perfect combination of flavors and textures that melt together beautifully.
Western Omelet Waffles
The culinary delight that awaited me was nothing short of impressive. The omelet’s tender and fluffy interior harmonized perfectly with its crispy edges, providing a satisfying textural contrast. To achieve this delightful outcome, it’s essential to ensure the waffle iron is preheated to the right temperature, allowing you to pour the eggs in smoothly without any mess. As the eggs cook, take a moment to prepare some toast and lavish it with butter.
Once the omelet is complete, place it atop your toasted treat and finish it off with a drizzle of hot sauce for added depth.
Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Waffles
The attention-grabbing title had me hooked from the start! Who wouldn’t be thrilled about a recipe that’s this impressive? These bite-sized treats are not only perfect as a snack but also pair well with various main courses like beef, pork, eggs, or even fish. I’m confident you won’t be able to resist their charm.
nThe secret to their success lies in the use of mashed potatoes, which yields an extraordinary crust and a light, airy interior that’s sure to become your new obsession.
And as for traditional side dishes like French fries and hash browns, let’s just say they’ve been replaced by these game-changing mashed potato waffles in my book.
Pizza Waffles
Waffle iron pizza pockets are a culinary masterpiece. Leveraging crescent rolls as a shortcut crust offers a delightful combination of flaky texture and zero prep time. However, the key to success lies in mastering the art of not overstuffing these bite-sized treats. While it’s tempting to load up on filling for maximum flavor, restraint is necessary to prevent chaos.
A clever trick to minimize mess is to reserve the pizza sauce for a separate application, thereby containing the toppings within the pocket.
Bisquick Waffles
Bisquick is an incredibly versatile ingredient that deserves a spotlight of its own. If you haven’t had a chance to explore my previous post on 18 Easy Bisquick Recipes, I highly recommend taking a look at the many creative ways you can utilize this pantry staple. Now, let’s get back to the waffles – a true showstopper in terms of texture and flavor. Despite the addition of sugar, this Bisquick mix is surprisingly adaptable, capable of elevating both sweet and savory dishes with equal aplomb.
Waffle Cheeseburger
While chicken and waffles may be a classic combination, why not mix things up with burgers and waffles? This unique pairing is surprisingly easy to create using Bisquick waffle mix and shredded cheese. As the cheese melts into the waffle, it infuses a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible. For best results, opt for a standard-sized waffle iron rather than a larger Belgian-style one, which may overwhelm the dish.
The end result is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Waffle Iron Quesadillas
While traditional methods for cooking quesadillas involve microwaving or pan-frying, there’s a surprising alternative that’s worth exploring: using a waffle iron! The result is a crispy, toasted exterior and a gooey, melty interior, all with minimal effort. Simply add your favorite quesadilla mix to the waffle iron, layer in your desired fillings, and let the machine do its magic.
As you cook, some of the fillings will be absorbed into the batter, while others will heat through and melt beautifully. Serve your creations with a side of spicy guacamole and fresh salsa for a flavorful, easy meal that’s sure to please.
Waffle Iron Hash Browns
While I have a soft spot for the entire hash brown, there’s something special about the crispy edges. This recipe ensures an abundance of crunch, making it impossible to resist. On the flip side, a mushy hash brown is a nightmare, and traditional cooking methods can easily result in a soggy middle with overcooked edges.
The waffle iron, however, takes the guesswork out of achieving that perfect texture, yielding crispy pockets filled with savory potato and salty goodness – the ideal vessel for holding a generous helping of melted cheese.
S’mores Waffles with Nutella and Toasted Coconut
While it’s undeniable that these waffles are indulgent, taking them to the next level with marshmallow and Nutella is a game-changer. The sweet and gooey marshmallow provides a perfect base, while the rich, nutty flavor of Nutella adds depth. If you’re looking to take it up another notch, consider substituting toasted coconut for chopped nuts for added texture and crunch.
Waffle Iron Cinnamon Apples
Grilled fruit is often overlooked as a culinary delight, but by cooking your slices, you can unlock their natural sweetness. As the fruit cooks, it releases its juices and caramelizes to perfection. This simple recipe requires only two ingredients: sugar and cinnamon. To add an extra layer of flavor, dip each side of the fruit slice in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring a sweet coating throughout.
Enjoy your grilled fruit with a scoop of creamy ice cream or topped with crumbled meringue and whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Waffle Iron Brownies
While traditional brownies may not be the typical morning fare, these waffle-iron baked treats offer a delightful twist on the classic recipe. The result is a cake-like brownie with the same rich flavor profile as its fudgy counterpart, but with the added bonus of a crispy waffle texture. This innovative breakfast option is sure to elevate your morning routine and make for a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration.
Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for an indulgent treat that’s equal parts sweet and satisfying.
Doughnut Waffles with Maple Glaze
The allure of these doughnut waffles lies in their striking contrast: a crunchy exterior gives way to a soft, fluffy interior. I’m particularly fond of the bite-sized servings, which not only make them easier to devour but also showcase the rich, thick glaze that brings everything together.
While it’s certainly possible to scale up the recipe and create full-sized waffles, I think you’ll find that the portion control is a blessing in disguise – after all, who can resist finishing off an entire doughnut waffle when they’re this irresistible?
Waffle-Iron Cookies
When it comes to cooking with a waffle iron, why not think outside the box (or batter bowl)? If you can whip up brownies and doughnuts, why not give cookies a try? It all starts with a thorough creaming of the butter and sugars – we’re talking more than 5 minutes of intense mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. The resulting dough will be thicker than what you’d typically find in a traditional cookie recipe, so be prepared for that.
To cook these unique cookies, simply spray your waffle iron with some non-stick cooking spray, place a generous ball of the dough right in the center, and let the iron do its magic. Resist the urge to flatten the dough – instead, let the heat and pressure from the iron work their wonders. After about 5 minutes, your cookies should be perfectly cooked.
Wafflewich
The Elvis sandwich is a legendary culinary creation that combines the unlikely trio of peanut butter, banana, and bacon into a match made in heaven. This indulgent treat is sure to leave you feeling pleasantly exhausted. For an added twist, feel free to utilize frozen waffles as the base layer. Place one at the bottom, fill it with sliced bananas and mini-marshmallows, and then top it off with another waffle half.
Spread a generous amount of peanut butter on this top layer before sandwiching everything together – and don’t forget to add some crispy bacon for good measure! Once you’ve assembled this sweet and savory masterpiece, cook it until the peanut butter is melted, the bananas are caramelized, and the marshmallows are puffed up. The result will be a delightfully messy and indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Cornbread Waffles
Imagine yourself surrounded by the mouthwatering aroma of tender pulled pork, nestled on a crispy cornbread waffle and topped with a refreshing crunch of slaw, all tied together with a drizzle of spicy BBQ sauce. The perfect comfort food trifecta is just moments away.
So, are you already standing in your kitchen, eager to bring this culinary masterpiece to life? If you have a trusted cornbread recipe or prefer the convenience of a boxed mix, feel free to use it as a foundation for this dish.
Alternatively, this recipe can be easily scaled up or down to suit your needs.
Birthday Cake Mix Waffles
Imagine starting your day with a twist on traditional breakfast waffles – Funfetti waffles that pack a colorful punch! The use of cake mix might seem unconventional, but think of it as a clever shortcut akin to using Bisquick. With a hint more sugar than traditional baking mixes, the possibilities are endless. If you’ve got a Funfetti mix at hand, feel free to utilize it, or add some vibrant rainbow sprinkles directly to your batter for an added pop of color.
Just be mindful not to shy away from the sprinkles, as they’ll melt beautifully into the waffle’s texture as it cooks. Finish off this sweet treat with a drizzle of hot fudge sauce and a dollop of whipped cream. And why not add the pièce de résistance – a lit candle on top for an unforgettable breakfast experience?
Waffle Cake
While it may seem unusual, there are indeed individuals who don’t have a sweet tooth for cake. However, they might just have a weakness for crispy and fluffy waffles. To commemorate their special day, why not surprise them with a show-stopping waffle cake? This unique dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors, with a subtle sweetness and an indulgent creamy filling. Feel free to get creative by using different types of waffles, such as Funfetti for a pop of color.
The possibilities are endless, making this a truly unforgettable celebration.
Falafel Waffles
The delightful combination of flavors and textures in these waffle-style falafel is undeniable – they’re not only rhyming with their name but also boasting a savory, vegan appeal. What’s more, having them as the base for various toppings like hummus, salad, or roasted pork elevates the snacking experience to new heights.
At the heart of this recipe lies the humble chickpea, which provides an incredible flavor profile and satisfying texture when ground into a pulp.
The beauty of this dish lies in its ease of preparation; everything can be effortlessly blended together in a food processor, leaving you with minimal prep time.
For those who may not share my affection for cilantro, feel free to substitute it with parsley instead – just remember not to overmix the batter, as you want the final product to retain some chunkiness.
Bacon & Cheddar Waffle Biscuits
While some may find my enthusiasm for bacon and cheese waffle biscuits to be a bit unconventional, I’d like to counteract any initial skepticism with a few reassuring points. Firstly, let’s acknowledge that these biscuits do deviate from traditional expectations – they’re denser and crisper than their lighter counterparts. However, this unique texture is precisely what makes them so captivating.
The waffle iron does indeed compress the biscuit dough, but it also creates an irresistible crust that adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. So, while some may raise an eyebrow at my fondness for these treats, I’m confident that once you experience their rich flavors and textural appeal, you’ll be hooked.
Homemade Chicken and Waffles Recipe
While I’ve developed a taste for chicken and waffles at any hour, there’s something special about the combination. In fact, my love affair with it began swiftly and frequently, as I’d often order this dish when the craving struck. A memorable experience in Tallinn, Estonia, further solidified my affection – their fried duck and waffles, paired with a drizzle of sweet hoisin sauce, was truly sublime! If you’re looking for a recipe to bring home the best fried chicken, look no further.
The secret lies in two key components: buttermilk and seasoned flour. When combined, they yield tender, flavorful chicken that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Savory Zucchini Waffle Fritters
These grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly zucchini fritters are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of sautéed zucchini, spinach, onion, and coconut aminos creates a rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. I often serve them alongside roasted chicken or pork chops, where they add a pop of color to the plate.
Homemade Waffle Ice-cream Sandwiches
As I sit down to write, I’m reminded that being a grown-up means embracing spontaneous indulgence – like whipping up waffle ice cream sandwiches at 3 pm on a Tuesday. The craving was too strong to ignore, so I took a break from writing and treated myself to a sweet treat. And let me tell you, it was absolutely worth it! When it comes to crafting the perfect sandwich, I find that gently removing the entire block of ice cream from its container and slicing off a portion is key.
This trick also works beautifully with Funfetti waffles or brownies – the possibilities are endless!
Sweet Potato Waffles
The allure of sweet potato pie is undeniable, which begs the question: why not fall in love with sweet potato waffles too? Not only do they boast a burst of vibrant color, but their rich flavor profile is equally impressive. To get started, you’ll need to cook and mash your potatoes – boiling or baking are both acceptable methods. Once cooled slightly, it’s time to add the spuds to the blender along with other essential ingredients.
A thorough blend is crucial, so be prepared to spend at least 4-5 minutes ensuring everything is well incorporated. Finally, top these tasty treats with a drizzle of maple syrup and some crunchy chopped pecans for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.
Blueberry Waffles
Blueberry waffles are a classic treat that never fails to impress with their sweet, colorful, and scrumptious flavor profile. When I whip up a batch, I always opt for doubling the recipe and freezing half of it. This approach allows me to easily grab a portion whenever I need it, and even better, they usually fit neatly into a toaster, making them a convenient breakfast or snack option.
