Adding some creativity to your cooking routine is as simple as dusting off that old waffle iron! It’s surprising how versatile this appliance can be. Believe it or not, a waffle iron is not just limited to making breakfast treats. In fact, you’re not alone in thinking there’s more to it than Sunday morning waffles. Many people underestimate the capabilities of their appliances and only use them for one specific task.
However, with a little imagination, you can use your waffle iron for any meal of the day, from savory potato dishes to creative chicken and waffles combinations.
Mac and Cheese Waffles
While many mac and cheese enthusiasts enjoy broiling the top of their dish to achieve that perfect balance of creamy pasta and crispy cheese, there’s an even more exciting way to take it to the next level. Imagine being able to experience that delightful crunchy flavor in every single bite, without having to rely on a broiler. The solution lies in using a waffle iron to cook your mac and cheese, resulting in a toasted edge and tender middle.
To make this work, simply spoon some of your favorite mac and cheese mixture into the center of the waffle iron, making sure to coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, wait for the magic to happen – the end result is a game-changing twist on a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly as a side to tomato soup.
Western Omelet Waffles
Flipping through my morning cooking routine, I stumbled upon an unexpected delight – a tender and fluffy omelet with a lovely crispy edge that added a delightful texture to each bite. For this recipe to turn out perfectly, it’s essential to have your waffle iron scorching hot before pouring in the eggs, preventing any messy spills or overflows. As you wait for the eggs to cook, take some time to toast some bread and slather it with butter.
Once the omelet is cooked through, place it atop your crispy toast and add a dash of spicy hot sauce to give it an extra kick.
Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Waffles
Glancing over the title, I’m sure you’ll agree with me – it’s a real showstopper! These bite-sized treats are an absolute delight to snack on or serve as a side dish to accompany any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for beef, pork, eggs, or even fish, I confidently predict that you won’t be able to resist their charms. The genius of using mashed potatoes lies in the fact that they yield an unbeatable crust and a fluffy interior – a winning combination that’s sure to become your new obsession.
Farewell, French fries; goodbye, hash browns! From now on, it’s all about mashed potato waffles for me.
Pizza Waffles
Sprucing up your pizza game has never been easier, thanks to these delectable waffle iron pizza pockets that are sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Simplifying the process with crescent rolls is a genius move, allowing for a delicious and flaky shortcut crust without any prep time at all. The only challenge lies in not overstuffing these little bundles of joy, as it can be tempting to load up on filling to make each bite even more mouth-watering.
However, resist the urge to fill them completely if you can, as this will prevent any potential messiness.
Bisquick Waffles
Although Bisquick is often associated with sweet treats, its versatility makes it an excellent ingredient to work with in both sweet and savory recipes. If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to use Bisquick, I recommend checking out my previous post, 18 Easy Bisquick Recipes. This collection of recipes showcases the countless ways you can incorporate Bisquick into your cooking and baking routine.
As for these waffles, they consistently turn out fluffy and tender, even when a bit of added sugar is introduced. What’s more, this mix can be easily adapted to suit savory dishes, too.
Waffle Cheeseburger
Delighting diners of all ages with sweet and savory combinations, burgers and waffles may not be as well-known as chicken and waffles, but they’re definitely worth trying. This innovative dish is surprisingly easy to prepare using store-bought Bisquick waffle mix and shredded cheese. The melted cheese infuses the waffle with a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible, while the texture of the two components combines beautifully.
When it comes to selecting a waffle iron, a standard one is ideal, as Belgian waffles might be too large for this particular combination.
Waffle Iron Quesadillas
A game-changer for quesadilla enthusiasts is cooking them in a waffle iron instead of a pan or microwave. It may sound unconventional, but it’s definitely worth trying out. Simply add your mix to the machine and layer in your fillings. Some of the ingredients will seep into the batter, while others will heat through and melt perfectly in the middle. To take it to the next level, serve with a generous helping of spicy guacamole and some fresh salsa.
Waffle Iron Hash Browns
S’mores Waffles with Nutella and Toasted Coconut
Known for being indulgent, waffles can take on even more decadence. The sweetness of a marshmallow within a waffle sandwich is indeed enticing enough. However, if you choose to go all in, why settle for just that? Adding Nutella brings an incredibly rich and nutty element to the mix, turning these treats into a true s’mores explosion. To add some texture, I often swap out the toasted coconut flakes with chopped nuts.
Waffle Iron Cinnamon Apples
Not only is grilled fruit an unconventional dish, it’s also incredibly easy to make. By cooking your fruit slices on a grill or in a pan, you’ll unlock the natural sweetness within them, causing them to release their juices and caramelize over time. To achieve this sweet and sticky texture, all you need is some granulated sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.
For an extra touch of indulgence, I recommend dipping each side of the fruit slice in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before grilling, ensuring every bite is coated in a sweet and aromatic layer. Serve your grilled fruit slices as a decadent dessert with a scoop of creamy ice cream or top them with crumbled meringue and whipped cream for an added burst of flavor.
Waffle Iron Brownies
Finding yourself in need of a twist on traditional brownies? Look no further than these waffle iron brownies. By cooking them in this unique manner, you’ll notice the texture is transformed into more of a cake-like consistency, similar to that of a brownie waffle. This innovative take not only changes the texture but also opens up new possibilities for serving times – perfect for breakfast or brunch!
They’re essentially a delightful combination of flavors and textures all wrapped up in one delicious package. These treats would make an excellent addition to your morning routine, especially on special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Why not elevate your breakfast game by adding some fresh strawberries and whipped cream to create a truly indulgent experience?
Doughnut Waffles with Maple Glaze
Frequently found on brunch menus, doughnut waffles are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the crunchy exterior and soft interior of a doughnut, paired with the fluffy texture of a waffle. I appreciate the smaller serving size of these doughnuts, as it makes them feel like a special indulgence. The thick glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that takes them to the next level.
While you can certainly make full-sized versions, I find that the smaller size helps me enjoy every bite without feeling overwhelmed by the richness of the glaze.
Waffle-Iron Cookies
Running with the idea that if you can cook other sweet treats like brownies and doughnuts in a waffle iron, why not cookies? In this case, these particular cookie recipe starts with an extended creaming process of the butter and sugars, taking more than 5 minutes to achieve a super fluffy and light consistency. As the recipe progresses towards its finish, you would approach it like a normal cookie recipe, but be prepared for a thicker dough than usual.
Before cooking, spray your waffle iron thoroughly, then place a generous ball of cookie dough right in the middle without flattening it down. Let the iron do that for you. After about 5 minutes have passed, they should be cooked just right and ready to serve.
Wafflewich
Nostalgic foodies might already know about the Elvis sandwich, a mouthwatering combination of peanut butter, banana, and crispy bacon that’s hard to resist. This recipe is its close cousin, and you’ll need a nap after devouring it due to its rich flavors and textures. If you have frozen waffles on hand, feel free to use them as the base for this treat. Place one waffle at the bottom of your dish and fill it with sliced bananas and mini-marshmallows for a sweet and indulgent start.
On the other half of the waffle, spread a generous amount of creamy peanut butter before sandwiching everything together. Don’t be shy – you can also add some crispy bacon to give it an extra boost of flavor. Once cooked, this masterpiece will be ooey-gooey, messy, and utterly perfect. So go ahead, indulge in its sweet and savory goodness!
Cornbread Waffles
Key to making this dish truly unforgettable is setting your sights on perfection – close your eyes and picture perfectly tender pulled pork sitting atop a crispy cornbread waffle, surrounded by a generous helping of crunchy slaw and finished with a drizzle of spicy BBQ sauce. Are you already mentally transporting yourself to the kitchen? If you have a tried-and-true recipe for cornbread that you swear by, or prefer to rely on a convenient boxed mix, feel free to use it as is.
However, if you’re looking to craft something truly special, this recipe can be easily adapted to yield just the right amount for your needs.
Birthday Cake Mix Waffles
Making breakfast time a little more exciting is what we’re all about, right? Using a cake mix to make funfetti waffles might seem unconventional at first glance, but when you think about it, it’s not much different from using Bisquick. Cake mixes typically contain a bit more sugar than their Bisquick counterparts.
To take your waffle game to the next level, consider using a Funfetti mix if you have one on hand or simply add some rainbow sprinkles to your regular mix – don’t be stingy with them either, as they’ll dissolve into the batter as it cooks. Finish off these tasty treats by topping them with hot fudge sauce and whipped cream, and don’t forget the pièce de résistance: a candle!
Waffle Cake
Sometimes it’s hard to please everyone’s taste buds, but that doesn’t mean we can’t try to find something they’ll love. Take the case of someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy traditional cake, but has a soft spot for waffles – what if we were to combine these two ideas and create a waffle ‘cake’? This dessert is a great compromise, as it’s not overly sweet and features a deliciously creamy filling. The best part?
You can use any kind of waffle you like, from classic to Funfetti, adding an extra pop of color to the presentation.
Falafel Waffles
Just like regular waffles, these falafel waffles are a game-changer in breakfast and snack options. They’re not only delicious but also savory and vegan-friendly, making them a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. With their crispy outside and fluffy inside, they pair perfectly with a variety of toppings, from creamy hummus to fresh salads or even roasted pork. The key ingredient is ground chickpeas, which provides an amazing flavor and texture that’s similar to traditional falafel.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made quickly in a food processor, saving you time on prep work. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, don’t worry – simply substitute with parsley, and make sure not to over-mix the batter for a chunky texture.
Bacon & Cheddar Waffle Biscuits
Generally speaking, introducing unconventional ingredients into traditional recipes can elicit strong reactions from enthusiasts. In this case, combining bacon and cheese with waffle biscuits may seem unorthodox to some. The inherent characteristic of biscuits being light and fluffy might be compromised by the pressure exerted by the waffle iron, causing concerns that all the air will be crushed out in the process.
However, it’s essential to note that the resulting flavor profile is still satisfying, and the crispy crust provides a delightful contrast.
Homemade Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Just like the classic combination that never fails to impress, I’ve developed a deep affection for chicken and waffles, ordering it frequently due to its universal appeal. A particularly memorable meal in Tallinn, Estonia, showcased a unique twist on this classic duo – fried duck paired with waffles and a drizzle of sweet hoisin sauce, which left an indelible mark on my taste buds. If you’re eager to attempt making mouth-watering fried chicken at home, then this recipe is your golden ticket.
The two fundamental components that set this dish apart are buttermilk and seasoned flour, both of which play a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor in your chicken.
Savory Zucchini Waffle Fritters
Among the popular paleo, grain-free, and gluten-free options, this side dish or quick snack stands out for its exceptional flavor and nutrient profile. A combination of zucchini, spinach, onion, and coconut aminos provides an abundance of nutrients and ensures that every bite is packed with taste.As a complement to pork chops or roasted chicken, these add a vibrant splash of color to any plate, making them a great addition to a well-rounded meal.
Homemade Waffle Ice-cream Sandwiches
You’d be surprised at how often I catch myself in a moment of nostalgia, wondering why as an adult I’m still eating waffle ice cream sandwiches at odd hours. It’s not something to apologize for, though – it’s a reminder that life is too short for boring snacks! The Funfetti waffles and brownies are still top contenders, but the real key to creating these masterpieces lies in carefully extracting the entire block of ice cream from its container before slicing off a generous portion. The result?
A treat so delightful, it’s worth pausing whatever you’re doing for – like, say, writing a list.
Sweet Potato Waffles
Beyond our love for sweet potato pie, it’s only natural that we’d also fall for its waffle counterpart – the sweet potato waffle. Not only do these fluffy treats boast incredible flavor, but they also burst with vibrant color. Before you start cooking, remember to prepare your potatoes first by either boiling or baking them until tender, then mashing them up into a smooth consistency. When it’s time to blend everything together, let the potatoes cool slightly to prevent any lumps from forming.
This way, you can ensure that all the ingredients are well combined and ready for the next step. Allow the waffles to cook for at least 4-5 minutes, then finish them off with a drizzle of maple syrup and some crunchy chopped pecans on top.
Blueberry Waffles
Generally speaking, sweet treats like blueberry waffles hold a special place in many hearts. When I’m preparing blueberry waffles, I often choose to double the recipe and set aside half for later use. This convenient approach allows me to easily pull out a portion whenever it’s needed, and fortunately, these tasty waffles typically fit neatly into most standard toasters, making them an ideal candidate for breakfast on-the-go or even as a quick snack.
25 Best Things You Can Make With a Waffle Iron
Unlock the full potential of your waffle iron by trying out these mouth-watering recipes. From classic grilled cheese sandwiches to international-inspired quesadillas, the possibilities are endless and will surely give you a new appreciation for this versatile appliance.
Instructions
When it comes to preparing a tasty breakfast or brunch, having the right recipe and ingredients is crucial. The first step would be to choose your preferred recipe from a variety of options available. Once you have selected the desired recipe, proceed with organizing all the necessary ingredients required for its preparation. Lastly, ensure that your waffle iron is preheated in 30 minutes or less to get started.
