When the chill of autumn sets in, I often find myself longing for comforting meals that evoke warmth and familiarity. That’s when I discovered the joy of combining two favorites into one delectable dish: Cornbread Waffles with Chili. The first time I served this hearty creation, my friends couldn’t believe how perfectly the fluffy, sweet cornbread waffles paired with spicy, savory chili. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a delightful surprise that transformed our gathering into a feast.
Imagine the crunch of a freshly cooked waffle, still steaming from the iron, topped with a generous ladle of your favorite chili. Each bite is a symphony of flavors—from the subtle sweetness of cornmeal to the rich heartiness of chili, complemented by the creaminess of sour cream and the sharpness of shredded cheese. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a unique dish to impress guests, this recipe is wonderfully versatile.
Ready to elevate your next meal? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Cornbread Waffles with Chili a Must-Try?
Deliciously Unique: Experience a delightful twist on traditional chili by serving it atop fluffy cornbread waffles.
Quick & Easy: With a total time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory combination will tantalize your taste buds like never before.
Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite chili and toppings like cheese or sour cream for added flair!
Crowd-Pleaser: Guests will rave about this unexpected dish, making it a perfect choice for entertaining.
Enjoy the fun of preparing your own cozy meal and impressing loved ones with these scrumptious Cornbread Waffles with Chili that truly stand out!
Cornbread Waffles with Chili Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you need to create these delightful Cornbread Waffles with Chili!
For the Waffle Batter
- All-purpose flour – This gives the waffles structure and a nice texture.
- Yellow cornmeal – Adds a wonderful sweetness and distinct graininess to the waffles.
- Baking powder – Helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.
- Granulated sugar – A touch of sweetness to perfectly balance the cornbread flavor.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors and brings balance to the dish.
- Milk – Provides moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
- Oil – Adds richness and keeps the waffles tender.
- Large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and adding fluffiness.
For the Chili
- Your favorite chili – A hearty, rich chili will complement the sweetness of the waffles perfectly.
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese – Adds creamy and melty goodness on top of the chili.
- Sour cream – A dollop brings a refreshing tang that balances the heat of the chili.
- Chopped green onion – Provides a fresh, crisp bite for a delightful crunch.
How to Make Cornbread Waffles with Chili
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Preheat your waffle iron to ensure it’s hot and ready to create perfect waffles. A preheated iron helps achieve that delightful golden-brown finish.
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Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed, resulting in a fluffy base for your waffles.
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Mix in the wet ingredients by adding milk, oil, and eggs. Stir until just combined—don’t over-mix! The batter should be smooth with a few lumps for the best texture.
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Spray the waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the batter onto the hot iron, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook until steam dissipates, usually around 5 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Serve the warm waffles topped with a generous scoop of your favorite chili. For extra flavor, sprinkle with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onion.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cornbread Waffles with Chili
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Perfectly Preheated: Ensure your waffle iron is fully preheated for evenly cooked, crispy waffles that don’t stick.
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Don’t Over-Mix: Mixing the batter just until combined prevents tough waffles. Some lumps are perfectly fine for that airy texture!
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Chili Choice: Use a chili that complements sweetness; a smoky or spicy chili works wonders atop the cornbread waffles with chili.
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Topping Balance: Layer your toppings thoughtfully—excess cheese can overpower, so start with a sprinkle, taste, and add more if desired.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store waffles and chili separately in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain texture and flavor.
Cornbread Waffles with Chili Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious, celiac-friendly option.
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Plant-Based: Swap milk with almond or oat milk and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a delightful vegan twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for some extra heat that’ll warm you right up!
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Sweet Corn: Mix in canned or frozen sweet corn kernels for a delightful texture and additional sweetness in your waffles.
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Herbed Delight: Fold in fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or green onions into the batter for a burst of flavor that complements chili beautifully.
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Savory Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheese into the batter—cheddar or pepper jack works wonders for an extra cheesy experience.
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Breakfast Twist: Serve as a delightful breakfast dish by topping with scrambled eggs, avocado slices, and salsa for a complete meal any time of the day.
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Chili Variations: Experiment with different types of chili, such as white bean chili or turkey chili, to give a fresh perspective on this classic dish!
How to Store and Freeze Cornbread Waffles with Chili
Fridge: Store cooked waffles and chili separately in airtight containers. They’ll last for up to 3 days while maintaining flavor and freshness.
Freezer: Freeze waffles individually by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen waffles in a toaster or oven to restore their crispiness. Reheat chili on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
Serving Tips: When ready to serve, pair warm waffles with heated chili and your favorite toppings for a cozy meal even on busy nights!
What to Serve with Cornbread Waffles with Chili?
When it’s time to gather around the table, let’s take your meal to the next level with delicious pairings that enhance every bite.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon perfectly contrasts the soft waffles, adding a delightful texture and flavor balance.
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Honey Butter: Spread a dollop of sweet honey butter on your waffles before adding chili for a sweet-savory harmony that’s irresistible.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw adds brightness to the meal, cutting through the richness of the chili and enhancing the overall experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of the cornbread and depth of the chili.
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Corn Salad: Bright and zesty corn salad provides a fresh, light counterpoint to the hearty dish, making every bite feel balanced.
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Pickled Jalapeños: For those who crave spice, pickled jalapeños add zing and acidity, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
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Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon pairs well, keeping the meal light and thirst-quenching amidst the rich chili.
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Chocolate Brownies: End your meal with decadent chocolate brownies for a sweet finish, allowing the richness to linger in a lovely way.
With these delicious companions, your Cornbread Waffles with Chili will shift from a delightful dish to an unforgettable dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Cornbread Waffles with Chili are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the waffle batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and combining them with the wet ingredients, then storing it in the refrigerator. This method not only keeps the flavors fresh but also allows your batter to thicken just slightly for optimal waffle texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pour the batter into a preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown. To elevate the dish, consider making your favorite chili ahead and refrigerating it for up to 3 days. Reheat it while the waffles cook to serve a piping hot meal that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
Cornbread Waffles with Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cornmeal?
Absolutely! Look for finely ground yellow cornmeal for the best texture in your Cornbread Waffles with Chili. If you find it dusty or have a bitter smell, it’s likely stale, so choose a fresh bag with a pleasant, sweet corn aroma instead.
How should I store leftover cornbread waffles?
I recommend storing your leftover cornbread waffles in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to eat them later, place parchment paper between each waffle to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze cornbread waffles?
Very! To freeze your cornbread waffles, first, cool them completely. Then, wrap each waffle in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the toaster or oven for a crispy finish.
What should I do if my waffles are sticking to the iron?
Don’t fret! If your cornbread waffles are sticking, it’s likely that your waffle iron wasn’t adequately preheated or may need a touch more non-stick spray. Make sure to spray the iron generously before pouring in the batter. If you notice it still sticking, let the waffles cook for a minute longer before trying to remove them.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum added to mimic the structure of regular flour. The taste may vary slightly, but the fluffy texture should still shine through in your Cornbread Waffles with Chili.
Are cornbread waffles safe for pets?
While cornbread waffles are safe for dogs in small amounts, avoid feeding them chili or any toppings that may not sit well with pets. Always check with your vet for the best treat options tailored to your furry friends!
Delicious Cornbread Waffles with Chili for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your waffle iron to ensure it’s hot and ready to create perfect waffles.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
- Mix in the wet ingredients by adding milk, oil, and eggs. Stir until just combined—don’t over-mix!
- Spray the waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the batter onto the hot iron and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Serve the warm waffles topped with a generous scoop of your favorite chili and optional toppings.