Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

Introduction

Barbecue Cornbread Waffle is the ultimate savory comfort dish, combining the smoky richness of barbecue with the light, fluffy texture of cornbread, all nestled inside the crispy exterior of a waffle. This dish brings a perfect balance of flavors: the savory, slightly tangy barbecue sauce meets the sweet, crumbly cornbread in a bite that’s as satisfying as it is unique. The texture is golden and crispy on the outside, yet soft and moist on the inside, making each bite a delightful experience.

This dish holds a special spot in my heart. I first made it on a lazy weekend, craving something a little different, and it quickly became a family favorite. The smoky aroma of barbecue sauce mixed with the savory scent of cornbread cooking together fills the house, creating a sense of warmth and comfort. Topped with a drizzle of more barbecue sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, the waffle is elevated even further, making it irresistibly delicious.

Barbecue Cornbread Waffle is perfect for those moments when you’re craving something hearty but still a bit indulgent. It’s perfect for brunch or even dinner, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with some crispy fried chicken or a refreshing slaw on the side. If you want a dish that will impress everyone at the table and keep them coming back for more, this waffle is the one to make!

Perfect for:

• Barbecue lovers
• Comfort food enthusiasts
• Brunch gatherings
• Quick dinner ideas
• Casual family meals

Why You’ll Love This Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

• Savory & Sweet Combo – The subtly sweet cornbread waffles complement the smoky barbecue flavors beautifully.
• Customizable – Add your favorite protein or toppings to make it your own.
• Comforting Texture – The waffles are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making each bite irresistible.
• Quick & Easy – With just a few ingredients and a waffle maker, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Great for using up leftover barbecue, chicken, or even veggies.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Ingredients

Cornbread Waffle Batter

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the waffle iron)

Barbecue Topping

• 1 cup cooked chicken or pulled pork (optional, can substitute with beans or vegetables)
• ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cornmeal – Creates the characteristic texture of cornbread, adding a subtle sweetness and hearty bite.
• Barbecue Sauce – Adds depth and smokiness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions & Cilantro – Fresh, zesty toppings that balance out the richness of the waffles and barbecue.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cornbread Waffle Batter

1. Preheat the Waffle Iron – Set your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter until fully combined.
4. Combine the Mixtures – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (avoid overmixing).
5. Cook the Waffles – Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden and crispy on the outside.

Prepare the Barbecue Topping

6. Heat the Chicken – In a small saucepan, warm the cooked chicken or pulled pork with barbecue sauce over medium heat until heated through.
7. Assemble the Waffles – Once the waffles are cooked, top each waffle with a generous portion of the barbecue chicken or pork.
8. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with chopped green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

• With a Side of Coleslaw – Balance the flavors with a refreshing, tangy coleslaw.
• Topped with Avocado – Add sliced avocado for creaminess and extra richness.
• As a Meal – Enjoy as a hearty meal by adding extra toppings like pickled jalapeños or shredded cheese.
• For a Crowd – Serve these waffles as a party dish, setting out toppings so everyone can build their own.

Additional Tips Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

• Make It Vegetarian – Replace the pulled pork or chicken with roasted vegetables, such as peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, for a vegetarian version.
• Customize the Toppings – You can also add cheese, pickles, or even a fried egg on top for added flavor.
• Frozen Waffle Option – Make extra waffles and freeze them for a quick breakfast or snack option. Just toast them in a toaster or oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Use Leftover Barbecue – This dish is perfect for using up leftover barbecue from a previous meal.

Recipe Variations for Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

1. Spicy Barbecue Cornbread Waffle – Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the cornbread batter for extra heat.
2. Pulled Jackfruit Waffle – Substitute pulled pork with shredded jackfruit for a plant-based option.
3. Cheesy Cornbread Waffles – Add shredded cheddar cheese to the cornbread batter for a cheesy twist.
4. BBQ Tofu – For a vegan option, swap in barbecue tofu instead of chicken or pork.
5. Smoky Bacon Cornbread Waffle – Add crumbled bacon into the cornbread batter for a smoky flavor.
6. Maple Barbecue Waffle – Mix a tablespoon of maple syrup into the barbecue sauce for a sweet-savory flavor.
7. Southern Style BBQ Waffle – Top with coleslaw and fried chicken for a true Southern comfort food dish.
8. Corn and Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles – Add canned corn and chopped jalapeños to the cornbread batter for extra texture and heat.
9. BBQ Veggie Waffle – Top with sautéed seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn for a fresh variation.
10. Grilled Pineapple BBQ Waffle – Add grilled pineapple chunks as a tropical and sweet complement to the smoky barbecue flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

• Freezing Waffles – Allow waffles to cool completely before freezing. Place in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
• Storing Leftovers – Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster for a crispier texture.
• Freezing Barbecue Topping – You can also freeze the barbecue chicken or pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Special Equipment for Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

1. Waffle Iron – Essential for making cornbread waffles.
2. Mixing Bowls – For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
3. Whisk – To ensure a smooth batter.
4. Saucepan – For warming the barbecue chicken or pulled pork.
5. Spatula – To easily spread the batter on the waffle iron.
6. Airtight Container – For storing waffles and barbecue topping.
7. Tongs – For transferring cooked waffles to the plate.

FAQ Section for Barbecue Cornbread Waffle

1. Can I make these waffles ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the waffles in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them before serving.
2. Can I use a regular waffle mix?
   Yes, you can substitute store-bought waffle mix for the cornbread batter, but the texture and flavor will differ.
3. What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
   You can substitute with hot sauce, ketchup, or a homemade smoky sauce if you prefer.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and check your barbecue sauce for gluten-free certification.
5. Can I serve this with a salad?
   Yes, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be a great addition to balance out the richness of the waffles.

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Conclusion

Barbecue Cornbread Waffles are a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, savory goodness and comforting textures that will quickly become a crowd favorite. The crispy, golden crust of the waffle perfectly complements the tender, flavorful cornbread, which is infused with the irresistible taste of barbecue spices and a hint of sweetness.

This recipe stands out for its versatility—it can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or served as the perfect side to any meal, from grilled meats to a hearty salad. You can also customize the toppings, adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheddar, or even a drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or looking for a fun twist on traditional cornbread, these waffles are the ideal choice. Their unique texture and bold flavors will leave everyone coming back for more. Give it a try, and watch these Barbecue Cornbread Waffles become a staple in your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations—I’d love to see how you make this dish your own! Enjoy every flavorful bite!