Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili Recipe

There’s something truly magical about combining comfort foods to make a single, unforgettable dish! Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili bring together crisp, golden cornbread waffles filled with hearty chili and pockets of melted cheddar for a meal that’s pure, soul-soothing joy. Every bite bursts with familiar flavors—crunchy, creamy, a tad spicy—with just the right hint of nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe makes a showstopping centerpiece that always brings people back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili is how it relies on easy-to-find, classic ingredients that work together seamlessly. Each item brings a special touch to the finished dish, from meltiness to crunch and pops of color.

• Cornbread Mix: Use Krusteaz Southern Cornbread & Muffin Mix or your favorite brand—this gives your waffles an irresistible sweetness and soft crumb.
• Canned Chili: A 15-ounce can is all you need for cozy, spicy filling; pick your favorite brand or homemade if you have extra time.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Cheddar melts into gooey ribbons inside the waffles; pre-shredded is fine, but fresh adds extra flavor.
• Sour Cream (½ cup, optional): Cool, tangy dollops elevate each bite and balance the richness.
• Green Onions (½ cup, sliced, optional): These brighten the whole dish with fresh flavor and a dash of color.
• Hot Sauce or Extra Taco Toppings: Dress things up with a little heat, diced tomatoes, or even pickled jalapeños for extra punch.

How to Make Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Batter

Start by mixing your cornbread batter in a large bowl, following the package instructions to the letter. This simple step is the foundation of Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili—giving you that signature fluffy-yet-crispy texture everyone loves. Make sure to smooth out any lumps for even cooking later on.

Step 2: Ready the Filling Ingredients

Gather all your goodies: grated cheddar, chili, sliced green onions, and sour cream. Lay them out nearby so you’re ready for fast layering once the waffle iron is hot. This makes the assembly process smooth and stress-free, letting you focus on creating perfectly stuffed waffles.

Step 3: Heat the Waffle Iron

Preheat your waffle iron for about 5 minutes, getting it good and hot for a crispy finish. If your waffle iron is non-stick, skip spraying the plates directly—just lightly coat any tong ring or helpers you’ll use. Skipping extra oil keeps the waffles crisp without greasiness.

Step 4: Prep and Spray the Ring

Once the iron’s steaming, place your tong ring onto the iron and spray with a bit of non-stick cooking spray. This handy trick ensures your Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili come out easily and in gorgeous shape (no sticky disasters!).

Step 5: Layer the Cornbread, Chili, and Cheese

Pour about 1/4 cup of cornbread batter onto the bottom half of the waffle iron, spreading it to cover the grid. Top with 2–3 tablespoons grated cheddar, then 2–3 tablespoons chili, then a bit more cheese for oozing decadence. Finish with another 1/4 cup of batter, and use a spatula to completely cover your cheesy, chili-laden masterpiece.

Step 6: Bake in the Waffle Iron

Close the waffle iron and gently flip (if your iron allows). Bake for 5 minutes—no peeking! This seals in all the good stuff and creates a golden, slightly crunchy crust that’s packed with flavor in every crevice.

Step 7: Remove the Stuffed Waffles

Once the timer dings, carefully open the waffle iron. Use tongs to lift out the Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili, giving a helpful nudge underneath with a spatula if needed. A gentle touch keeps your waffles intact and picture-perfect as they hit the plate.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Serve

Top your hot waffles with extra scoops of chili, grated cheddar, dollops of sour cream, clusters of green onions, and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. Serve immediately so everyone can dig in while the cheese is gooey and melty.

How to Serve Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili

Garnishes

Piling on toppings is half the fun! Dollops of sour cream, sharp cheddar, a few green onions, and a quick shake of hot sauce make every serving of Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili look like a celebration. Feeling extra fancy? Add some avocado slices or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an irresistible, colorful finish.

Side Dishes

Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili are hearty on their own, but fresh sides help round out the meal. A crisp green salad or some grilled corn on the cob add a refreshing crunch. Light slaw or sautéed greens can balance the richness and bring brightness to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties, cut the waffles into quarters and stack them with toothpicks for a finger-food version. Or, serve individual waffles on rustic plates with a little “DIY toppings bar” so guests can make their own signature creations. These waffles also work great in brunch buffets—watch them steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They retain their flavor and texture surprisingly well, making them a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy next-day dinners.

Freezing

To freeze, let waffles cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep for up to two months—just pull out a portion whenever the craving strikes!

Reheating

For best results, reheat Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili in a toaster oven or 350-degree oven for 10 minutes to crisp them back up. The microwave works in a pinch, too—just cover to keep them moist, but know they might be a little softer.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade chili adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your spice preference. Just make sure your chili isn’t too watery, so the waffles hold together nicely.

What kind of cornbread mix works best?

Any good-quality cornbread mix will do, but a Southern-style option with a touch of sweetness tends to pair beautifully with savory chili and cheese. Krusteaz brand is reliable, but feel free to use your favorite.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a gluten-free cornbread mix and check your chili label. Most canned chilis are gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to double-check!

What if I don’t have a tong ring for my waffle iron?

Not a problem! Simply proceed without it, but be sure to lightly grease your waffle iron and handle the waffles gently during removal to keep them whole.

Can I prepare any components in advance?

Definitely. Grate your cheese, prep the chili, and slice your green onions ahead of time. When it’s time to cook, you’ll be ready to layer and assemble with ease.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to turn up the comfort food factor, Cornbread Waffles Stuffed with Chili will absolutely wow your table. With their fun presentation, crave-worthy textures, and endless topping options, these waffles promise to become a family favorite. Go ahead—grab your waffle iron and treat yourself to this delicious twist on two classic dishes!

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