Leftover Thanksgiving stuffing waffles give new purpose to classic holiday flavors like herb stuffing, roasted turkey, and cranberry sauce. When leftover stuffing is pressed into a waffle iron, it crisps into golden, savory waffles with hints of sage, thyme, and onion baked into every bite. The transformation turns a simple leftover into a dish that feels inventive while keeping the essence of the Thanksgiving table intact.
Topping leftover stuffing waffles with turkey breast slices, homemade gravy, or cranberry chutney creates a layered meal that mirrors a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in a new form. Families searching for creative leftover recipes discover that stuffing waffles provide a hearty breakfast or brunch option, proving that even the simplest holiday scraps can be reinvented into something festive, flavorful, and satisfying.
Recipe Overview
- Serves: 4 people
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–7 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 20–30 minutes
Ingredients for Stuffing Waffles
To make stuffing waffles, you’ll need:
- 3 cups leftover stuffing (any kind, including cornbread or stovetop stuffing)
- 1 large egg (to bind the stuffing)
- ¼ cup chicken or turkey stock (to moisten the mixture)
- Cooking spray or melted butter (to grease the waffle maker)
Optional Toppings:
- Gravy
- Cranberry sauce
- Turkey slices
- Fried or poached eggs
How to Make Stuffing Waffles (step by step guide)
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Prepare the Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, egg, and stock. Mix until the stuffing is moist and holds together when pressed.
- Preheat the Waffle Maker
- Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Grease the plates with cooking spray or melted butter.
- Recommended tool: Cuisinart Round Waffle Maker for even cooking and easy cleanup.
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Cook the Waffles
- Scoop a portion of the stuffing mixture onto the waffle maker and spread it evenly. Close the lid and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the waffle is golden and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the waffle carefully and serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Variations on Stuffing Waffles
1. Thanksgiving Stuffing Waffles
Thanksgiving stuffing waffles become a full holiday meal when topped with sliced turkey breast, homemade turkey gravy, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. The crispy waffle base soaks up the gravy while the cranberry adds brightness, making it taste like a mini Thanksgiving dinner on a plate.
2. Cornbread Stuffing Waffles
Cornbread stuffing waffles deliver a slightly sweet flavor with their rich, crumbly texture. Paired with honey-glazed ham or drizzled with maple syrup, they balance savory and sweet elements, making them perfect for both brunch and dinner.
3. Stuffing Waffles with Eggs
Stuffing waffles with eggs turn holiday leftovers into a hearty breakfast. A fried egg with a runny yolk or a soft poached egg on top creates a creamy sauce that blends with the crispy stuffing waffle for a comforting morning dish.
4. Chicken and Stuffing Waffles
Chicken and stuffing waffles provide a homestyle twist on comfort food. Shredded rotisserie chicken layered over the stuffing waffle with a drizzle of gravy makes an easy dinner that tastes like a Sunday roast with a holiday touch.
5. Stuffing Waffle Sandwich
Stuffing waffle sandwiches transform leftovers into a handheld feast. Two crispy stuffing waffles replace bread and can be filled with roast turkey slices, cheddar cheese, and cranberry relish for a satisfying sandwich full of Thanksgiving flavors.
6. Sausage Stuffing Waffles
Sausage stuffing waffles bring an extra layer of flavor with the addition of Italian sausage or breakfast sausage crumbles mixed into the batter. The savory meat blends beautifully with the herbs in the stuffing, making these waffles perfect for brunch with a side of eggs.
7. Cheesy Stuffing Waffles
Cheesy stuffing waffles combine the richness of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese with the crisp texture of baked stuffing. The cheese melts into the waffle pockets, giving every bite a gooey, indulgent flavor that pairs well with turkey or ham.
8. Vegetarian Stuffing Waffles
Vegetarian stuffing waffles highlight fresh produce by adding roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash into the mix. Topped with a dollop of herb yogurt sauce or vegetarian mushroom gravy, they make a wholesome leftover-friendly dish.
Creative Ideas for Leftover Stuffing Waffles
- Savory Breakfast Bowl: Crumble stuffing waffles and serve them with scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage.
- Holiday Brunch Centerpiece: Make a variety of stuffing waffles with different toppings and let guests customize their plates.
- Appetizer Bites: Cut stuffing waffles into small squares and top with smoked salmon or cream cheese.
FAQs About Stuffing Waffles
1. What is stuffing made out of?
Stuffing is typically made with bread cubes, broth, vegetables, and seasonings like sage and thyme. Variations may include sausage, nuts, or dried fruit.
2. What is the secret to making good waffles?
For stuffing waffles, the key is a well-moistened mixture that binds together but isn’t soggy. Adding an egg helps hold the waffles together during cooking.
3. Can I use stovetop stuffing for waffles?
Yes, stovetop stuffing works well. Just prepare it according to the package instructions and follow the recipe above.
4. What toppings go well with stuffing waffles?
Gravy, cranberry sauce, turkey slices, and eggs are all excellent choices.
5. Can I make stuffing waffles ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the waffles and store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the toaster or oven for best results.
Discover More Waffle Recipes
If you love creative ways to use your waffle maker, check out our article on Things You Can Make in a Waffle Maker. From savory dishes to sweet treats, you’ll be inspired to try something new!
Recommended Waffle Maker
For perfect stuffing waffles, we recommend:
- Cuisinart Round Waffle Maker: (Shop Now on Amazon). It ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
- DASH Mini Waffle Maker: (Buy Here). Ideal for small portions or quick snacks.
