How to Make Savory Bacon and Cheddar Waffles: A Simple Guide
When most people think of waffles, they imagine fluffy stacks topped with syrup and butter—classic sweet breakfast fare that feels like a treat. But did you know waffles don’t always have to be sweet? Enter the world of savory waffles, where bold flavors and satisfying textures take center stage. One of the ultimate savory combinations is bacon and cheddar cheese. If you’re ready to shake up your breakfast (or even dinner game!), this recipe for bacon and cheddar waffles is perfect for you. And don’t worry—it’s easy to make!
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious waffles. So, let’s get started.
What Makes These Waffles Special?
Savory bacon and cheddar waffles are perfect for anyone who loves salty and cheesy flavors. They combine crispy, smoky bacon with rich, gooey cheddar cheese, all folded into a warm waffle batter. They work great as a breakfast, brunch dish, or even as a snack. You can eat them plain, serve them with eggs, or drizzle them with a little maple syrup for that sweet-and-savory combo. Plus, they’re super simple to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s your shopping list. Most of these are kitchen staples, so you likely have a few already!
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Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups (about 190 grams) of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt (you can adjust based on how salty your bacon is)
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Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
- ⅓ cup of melted butter (unsalted is preferred)
- Optional: 1½ teaspoons of olive oil for an extra crispy edge
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Add-Ins:
- 6 slices of cooked bacon (crispy and chopped into small bits)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives the most flavor)
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Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped chives, maple syrup, or hot sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking your bacon until it’s crispy. You can fry it in a pan, bake it in the oven, or even use store-bought pre-cooked bacon to save time. Once done, let it cool down slightly, then chop it into small crumbles or bits. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Then add the melted butter and stir until everything is combined. This will be the base of your batter.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. If you’re feeling fancy, you can add a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder for extra flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until there are no streaks of flour left, but be careful not to overmix—this can make your waffles tough instead of fluffy.
5. Fold in the Bacon and Cheddar
Now comes the fun part! Fold the crispy bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese into the batter. Make sure they’re evenly distributed so every waffle gets a tasty bite of bacon and cheese. If the mixture looks a bit thick, you can add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
6. Heat Your Waffle Maker
Plug in your waffle maker and let it heat up. Most waffle makers come with a light or indicator showing when they’re ready. While it’s warming up, lightly grease the plates with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
7. Cook the Waffles
Pour your bacon-and-cheddar batter onto the waffle maker—don’t overfill as it’ll spill out. Use only enough to cover the plate evenly. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. Most waffle makers cook waffles in about 3 to 5 minutes, but timing may vary depending on your machine. Be sure to check the instructions for yours.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the waffles are done, carefully remove them (they’ll be hot!) and place them on a plate. You can serve them right away or keep them warm in the oven on a low setting until you’re ready to eat.
Tips for Success
- Crispy Bacon Is Key: The crunchiness of the bacon adds texture to the waffles, so don’t skimp on cooking the bacon nice and crispy.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the star here, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack.
- Double Batch: These waffles are so good, you might as well make extra! You can freeze leftovers for later—just reheat them in the toaster or oven when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Savory bacon and cheddar waffles are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for mixing up your usual waffle routine. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself to a hearty breakfast, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s customizable—add spices, herbs, or toppings that fit your taste.
Grab your waffle maker, and let’s get cooking! Share your creations with friends and family, and enjoy the satisfaction of making something show-stopping yet simple. Happy waffle-making!
