Cornbread Waffles with Chili Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy, comforting meals that bring a little extra kick to your dinner table, then you are absolutely going to love this recipe for Cornbread Waffles with Chili. Combining the sweet, tender crumb of cornbread cooked crisp and golden in a waffle iron with a hearty, spiced chili, this dish hits every note of flavor and texture you can dream of. It’s the perfect way to transform simple ingredients into a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual weeknight or a crowd-pleasing weekend gathering, these cornbread waffles topped with chili will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simplicity, using pantry staples that come together beautifully to create an unforgettable dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the slightly gritty cornmeal that gives the waffles their signature texture to the rich, flavorful chili that puts the whole meal over the top.

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness to your waffles, balancing the cornmeal’s texture perfectly.
• 1 1/4 cups yellow cornmeal: Gives that classic cornbread flavor and a delightfully crumbly texture.
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder: The magic leavening agent that makes your waffles fluffy and light.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to enhance the corn’s natural flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for rounding out the flavors and making each bite pop.
• 2 cups milk: Moistens the batter for a tender, soft inside with a crispy exterior once cooked.
• 3 Tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola): Keeps the waffles from sticking and adds moisture without heaviness.
• 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness to the batter.
• Your favorite chili: The heart of the dish — use homemade or store-bought, mild or spicy, to suit your taste.
• Optional chili toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onion add extra layers of flavor and a fresh finish.

How to Make Cornbread Waffles with Chili

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Waffle Iron

Start by heating your waffle iron to ensure it’s piping hot, which helps create that irresistible crispy exterior. Give it a good spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mixing these first ensures your leavening agents and seasoning are evenly distributed, which results in a perfectly risen and flavorful waffle.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients and Mix

Pour in the milk, oil, and crack in the eggs. Stir just until the mixture is smooth and homogenous — it’s important not to over-mix, as that can lead to tougher waffles. You want a batter that’s slightly thick but pourable.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

Ladle the batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading it out evenly but not too thin. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, until the waffles turn a gorgeous golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.

Step 5: Top Your Cornbread Waffles with Chili and Garnish

Place the warm cornbread waffles on plates, then generously spoon your favorite chili right over the top. Add optional shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onion for that extra touch of creamy, sharp, and fresh contrast.

How to Serve Cornbread Waffles with Chili

Garnishes

Simple scallions, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream bring the whole dish to life. The creamy sour cream cools down the heat of the chili, while the cheese melts deliciously into every nook and cranny. Fresh green onions add that satisfying crunch and brightness that you’ll crave with each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve your Cornbread Waffles with Chili alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal. Coleslaw or pickled jalapeños also make great accompaniments, cutting through the rich flavors with their acidity and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the cornbread waffles into wedges and use them as dippers for chili, turning it into a shareable appetizer. Alternatively, build a layered casserole by stacking waffles, ladling chili between layers, and finishing with baked cheese on top for a hearty comfort food feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cornbread waffles and chili can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chili and waffles apart prevents the bread from becoming soggy and keeps flavors fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked cornbread waffles by laying them flat on a baking sheet until frozen, then transferring them to freezer-safe bags. They keep well for up to 2 months. Chili also freezes beautifully in portioned containers for up to 3 months, making meal prep a breeze.

Reheating

Reheat waffles in a toaster or oven to regain their crispiness, while chili reheats best on the stove over low heat with occasional stirring. Reheating separately preserves the texture and flavor of each component so your Cornbread Waffles with Chili taste just as wonderful as fresh.

FAQs

Can I make the cornbread waffle batter ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as some separation may occur.

What type of chili works best with the waffles?

Any chili you love will work well, from classic beef chili to vegetarian or turkey chili. The richness of the chili complements the sweet corn waffle beautifully, so choose a chili with bold but balanced flavors.

Can I use a gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, substituting gluten-free flour blends works fine, though the texture might be slightly different. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free and adjust liquid levels if needed for the best results.

How do I get my cornbread waffles crispy?

Make sure your waffle iron is hot before adding batter and avoid opening it mid-cook. Using oil in the batter and spraying the iron well prevents sticking and helps form a crisp crust.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few swaps, yes! Use plant-based milk, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use oil instead of butter. Choose a vegan chili to keep everything plant-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Cornbread Waffles with Chili is a delightful way to brighten up your mealtime routine with a dish that’s full of heart and flavor. It’s cozy, versatile, and every bite offers a perfect balance between sweet, savory, and spicy. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how easy it is to make a meal that feels truly special with everyday ingredients. Trust me, once you give this a go, it might just become one of your new favorites too!

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