There’s something magical about discovering a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also tells a story. For me, green chile cheese waffles are more than just a meal—they’re a love letter to Southwestern cuisine, brimming with bold flavors, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia.
Let me take you on a journey, not just through a recipe but through a story of how these waffles came to be a cherished favourite in my kitchen.
A Story of Inspiration
It all started on a warm summer evening in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I was on my third date with my now-husband. Nervous yet excited, we decided to explore a local gem called Tia B’s La Waffleria.
The line outside was long, but the tantalizing aroma of waffles wafting through the air made the wait worthwhile.
The menu was a delightful mix of sweet and savory waffles, topped with everything from fresh fruit to spicy green and red chile sauces.
I remember ordering the “Waffle Benitos”—a combination of a buttermilk waffle, huevos (eggs), and a rich green chile cream sauce. One bite, and I was hooked. It was the perfect balance of spice, cheese, and comfort food goodness.
I knew I had to recreate something similar at home. And thus, my green chile cheese waffles were born—a dish that not only brings a taste of New Mexico to my kitchen but also reminds me of that special date every time I make it.
Now, let’s dive into this recipe that has become a staple in my culinary repertoire.
- Course: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Southwestern
- Keyword: Savory waffles, green chile, cheese
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 waffles
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Green Chile Cheese Waffles:
For the Cornbread Waffles:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 egg
For the Green Chile Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped green chiles (roasted and peeled for the best flavor)
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Extra Ingredients:
- 8 eggs (cooked to your preference—over-easy, scrambled, or sunny-side-up)
- 8 strips of bacon (crispy and crumbled)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Sliced avocado
- Hot sauce
- Fresh cilantro or scallions
- Jalapeños for extra heat
Preparation Steps of Green Chile Cheese Waffles
Step 1: Making the Cornbread Waffle Batter
- Preheat your waffle iron and grease it generously with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the waffles dense.
Step 2: Cooking the Waffles
- Pour 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the batter into the preheated waffle iron.
- Cook for about 5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the waffles and place them on a cooling rack to maintain their crispiness while you prepare the toppings.
Step 3: Preparing the Green Chile Cheese Sauce
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the chopped green chiles and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Cooking the Eggs and Bacon
- Fry the eggs to your liking. Personally, I love sunny-side-up eggs for their golden yolks that add richness to the dish.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Assembling the Dish
- Place a warm cornbread waffle on a plate.
- Top it with two eggs.
- Generously ladle the green chile cheese sauce over the eggs and waffle.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top and garnish with your favorite add-ons like avocado slices, scallions, or hot sauce.
Cooking Tips
- For Crispy Waffles: Let the cooked waffles rest on a cooling rack instead of stacking them. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Adjusting the Spice Level: Add finely diced jalapeños or Serrano peppers to the cheese sauce if you want to amp up the heat.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is the classic option, you can experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a slightly different flavor.
Additional Tips for the Perfect Waffle Experience
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Try pickled jalapeños for added tanginess, or even a dollop of guacamole for a creamy texture.
- Pair with a Drink: A refreshing beverage, such as a spicy bloody Mary or a sweet iced tea, pairs beautifully with these waffles, enhancing the overall experience.
- Cooking with Kids: Involve your kids in the cooking process! Let them help mix the batter or top the waffles. It’s a fun way to bond and teach them about cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Green chile cheese waffles are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Classic Breakfast: Serve with eggs, bacon, and a side of fresh fruit.
- Brunch Spread: Create a DIY waffle bar with toppings like avocado, hot sauce, sour cream, and fresh herbs.
- Dinner Option: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a hearty evening meal.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a meat-free version.
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and egg substitutes. Replace butter with a neutral oil.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to balance the heat of the green chile.
- Southwestern Rancheros: Use blue cornmeal for the waffles and top with spicy red chile sauce and queso fresco.
- Loaded Waffles: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate smoked chipotle powder into the waffle batter for a smoky, spicy flavor.
- Cheesy Overload: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, and smoked gouda for a richer sauce.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Turn the waffles into a sandwich by layering eggs, cheese, and bacon between two waffles.
- Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep: Make a large batch of waffles and freeze them. Reheat in a toaster oven for a quick breakfast or dinner.
Conclusion
Green chile cheese waffles are more than just a dish—they’re an experience, a celebration of Southwestern flavors, and a comforting treat that brings people together.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating your family to breakfast for dinner, or simply craving something new, these waffles are sure to hit the spot.
So, grab your waffle maker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of green chile and cheese transform your breakfast into a Southwestern fiesta.
Don’t forget to share your creation with loved ones—it’s a dish best enjoyed together!
Share Your Creation!
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations, customizations, and how you made this dish your own.
Happy cooking!