15 Surprising Dishes You Can Make Using a Waffle Iron

Waffle irons are often typecast as single-purpose kitchen gadgets, trotted out for Sunday brunch and then tucked away for the rest of the week. But what if I told you that this humble appliance could be the MVP of your culinary arsenal? Beyond the classic breakfast fare, waffle irons can transform a variety of foods into crispy, golden perfection.

Hash Browns

Crispy and golden, hash browns are a breakfast favorite. Using a waffle iron ensures they are evenly cooked with a perfect crunch. Simply shred potatoes, season them with salt and pepper, and press them into the iron. The result is a delightful morning treat that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Omelets

Making omelets in a waffle iron is a game-changer. Beat eggs with your favorite fillings like cheese, ham, and vegetables, then pour the mixture into the iron. Cook until the eggs are fluffy and fully set. This method creates a fun twist on a classic dish and ensures even cooking every time.

Cinnamon Rolls

Waffle irons can quickly cook pre-made cinnamon roll dough to a golden perfection. Place the dough in the iron and press until done. The heat caramelizes the sugar, creating a crispy outside and gooey inside, perfect for a sweet breakfast or dessert. Drizzle with icing for an extra indulgent treat.

Brownies

Yes, you can make brownies in a waffle iron. Pour your favorite brownie batter into the iron and cook until done. This method gives you crispy edges with a fudgy center, perfect for brownie lovers. Serve with ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Pizza

Mini pizzas are a fun and quick meal using a waffle iron. Place pizza dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings like pepperoni or vegetables in the iron and cook until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden. It’s a great way to enjoy pizza without needing an oven.

Mac and Cheese

Transform leftover mac and cheese into a crispy treat by cooking it in a waffle iron. The result is a crunchy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center, perfect for snacking. It’s a clever way to repurpose leftovers and create a new dish.

Falafel

For a healthier twist on falafel, use a waffle iron. Shape your falafel mix into small patties and cook in the iron until crispy. This method reduces the need for deep frying and results in a deliciously crunchy snack or meal component.

Bacon

Waffle irons can cook bacon to crispy perfection without the mess of a frying pan. Lay strips of bacon in the iron and cook until they reach your desired crispiness. The grease drains away, making this a cleaner method of cooking bacon.

Grilled Cheese

Upgrade your grilled cheese sandwich by using a waffle iron. The iron presses the sandwich flat and cooks it evenly, giving it a delightful crunch and melted cheese inside. It’s a fun and easy way to make a classic comfort food.

French Toast

Make French toast waffles by dipping bread in an egg mixture and cooking in the waffle iron. The result is a crispy, waffle-like texture that’s perfect with syrup and berries. It’s a delightful breakfast option that’s quick and easy to make.

Zucchini Fritters

For a healthy snack, make zucchini fritters in a waffle iron. Mix grated zucchini with eggs and flour, then cook in the iron until crispy. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables and makes for a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Donuts

Make mini donuts by cooking donut batter in a waffle iron. This method gives you crispy, waffle-shaped donuts that are perfect for dipping in glaze or sprinkling with sugar. It’s a quick and fun way to make homemade donuts without deep frying.

Stuffed Biscuits

Create stuffed biscuits by placing biscuit dough with a filling (like cheese or sausage) in a waffle iron. The dough cooks to a golden brown, encasing the delicious filling. It’s a quick and easy way to make a hearty breakfast or snack.

Rice Cakes

Use leftover rice to make crispy rice cakes in a waffle iron. Mix rice with eggs and seasonings, then press into the iron for a crunchy, savory treat. It’s a creative way to use up leftovers and create a new dish.

Eggplant Patty

For a unique vegetarian option, make eggplant patties in a waffle iron. Mix grated eggplant with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then cook in the iron until crispy. These patties are a great meatless alternative, perfect for sandwiches or as a standalone dish.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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