Ah, Thanksgiving—a time for family, friends, and a feast that would impress any Thanksgiving enthusiast. Since the day has come and gone, you likely have a mountain of leftovers crammed into your fridge. If you're staring at that pile of stuffing, wondering how to transform it into something new, you're not alone. Trust me, I’ve been there.
Enter: Thanksgiving leftover stuffing waffles, the surprisingly delightful dish that will make your taste buds sing. To kick things off, let's talk about what you can pair with these delicious waffles.
Pairing food can transform a solitary dish into an unforgettable experience. With leftover stuffing waffles, the options are endless. Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal: Gravy Drizzles, Cranberry Sauce, Eggs, Sautéed Vegetables etc.
When I first thought about repurposing leftovers, I was skeptical. After all, stuffing is a beloved side dish. But then it hit me: when you turn your leftover stuffing into waffles, you don't just create a new dish.
You invent a breakfast—or brunch—experience that sings of holiday comfort. The edges become crispy, the insides warm and soft. You might wonder: What exactly are Thanksgiving leftover stuffing waffles?
Simply put, these waffles are a creative repurposing of leftover stuffing. The mixture of herbs, bread, and seasonings binds together, forming a golden, crunchy exterior while the interior remains fluffy and inviting.
People often think of waffles as a breakfast food, but let’s face it: this creation is suitable for any meal.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a warm, crispy waffle infused with the flavors of sage, thyme, and onion. The savory taste of stuffing pairs beautifully with toppings, from sweet cranberry sauce to a drizzle of gravy.
Each ingredient harmonizes in a delightful way, creating a unique taste that's reminiscent of your Thanksgiving feast but exciting enough to feel brand new.
Why This Recipe Works?
You might be wondering why this recipe is a winner. Here are four solid reasons:
Texture Contrast: The outer layer of the waffle becomes crispy, while the inside remains fluffy. This combination creates a delightful balance that keeps your palate interested.
Flavor Fusion: Utilizing leftover stuffing packed with herbs and spices brings forth a depth of flavor that exceeds what a typical waffle offers.
Nostalgic Elements: This dish captures the essence of Thanksgiving, providing a warm, comforting way to reminisce about the holiday while avoiding waste.
Versatile Toppings: You can tailor the waffles with various toppings, making it a flexible dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffing Waffles
To whip up these scrumptious waffles, you’ll need:
Chicken broth or turkey stock, just enough to moisten
2 large farm-fresh eggs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
4 cups crumbled leftover herb stuffing
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Leftover cranberry chutney, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get down to business. Here’s how to create your Thanksgiving leftover stuffing waffles.
Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Iron
Start by plugging in your waffle iron to preheat. This step ensures that your waffles will crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled stuffing, eggs, garlic powder, and parsley. Stir it all together. It might look a bit dry initially, but that’s where the broth comes in.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Gradually add the chicken broth or turkey stock. You want the mixture to be moist but not drenched. It should hold its shape when scooped. This blend is crucial for achieving the right waffle texture.
Step 4: Grease the Waffle Iron
Once your waffle iron is ready, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help prevent any sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Scoop about a cup of the mixture into the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions. You’re looking for a golden brown color—approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Once the waffles are done, remove them carefully. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings like gravy or cranberry chutney.
Notes
Here are some quick tips to make your cooking experience smoother:
Variations: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or cheese into your waffle mixture for an extra flavor punch.
Homemade Stuffing: If you don't have leftover stuffing, consider making a small batch just for this recipe.
Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra waffles. They reheat beautifully in a toaster or oven.
Experiment with Spices: Depending on your original stuffing flavor, you might want to adjust spices to enhance the profile.
Topping Ideas: Don’t be afraid to go wild! Fresh herbs, hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of feta could elevate your waffle game.
If you find yourself with extras (and believe me, you might), here’s how to store them:
Refrigeration: Keep leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, layer the waffles with parchment paper in between in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: Pop them into a toaster or reheat in the oven until crispy again. Don’t microwave; you want to maintain that crunch!
Sides for Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffing Waffles
What do you serve alongside these innovative waffles? Here are some ideas:
Sautéed Spinach: A quick sauté with garlic adds freshness and helps balance the heartiness of the waffles.
Creamy Mushroom Soup: A bowl of mushroom soup can serve as a companion that lends depth to each bite of waffle.
Fresh Salad Greens: A simple mixed green salad dressed with light vinaigrette introduces a crisp contrast.
Sweet Potato Hash: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with savory stuffing waffles, creating a great match.
Alternative Choices to Ingredients
Sometimes, you open your pantry and realize you're out of a key ingredient. Here are some alternatives:
Egg Substitute: If you have no eggs, a flaxseed meal mixed with water can serve as a binding agent. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg.
Stuffing Mix: If you lack homemade stuffing, store-bought stuffing mixes are an excellent shortcut. Just combine them with the eggs and broth.
Broth Alternatives: If you're short on broth, water can do in a pinch, but chicken or vegetable stock will take it to the next level.
Fresh Herbs: Don't have parsley? Any fresh herbs like thyme or chives can add an appealing flavor profile.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving leftover stuffing waffles are not just a way to reduce waste; they're a celebration of creativity in the kitchen. This dish brings the essence of the holidays to a whole new level as it allows you to revisit those cherished flavors in an exciting format.
When I made these for the first time, I was amazed at how something so simple could evoke such joy. So, the next time you're wondering what to do with those leftovers, consider trying these waffles.
They're an adventure on a plate and a reminder that sometimes the best meals are born from a dash of creativity and a heap of leftovers. Happy cooking!
When I first thought about repurposing leftovers, I was skeptical. After all, stuffing is a beloved side dish. But then it hit me: when you turn your leftover stuffing into waffles, you don't just create a new dish.
Ingredients
Chicken broth or turkey stock, just enough to moisten
2large farm-fresh eggs
½teaspoon garlic powder
4cups crumbled leftover herb stuffing
2tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Leftover cranberry chutney, for serving
Instructions
1
Let’s get down to business. Here’s how to create your Thanksgiving leftover stuffing waffles.
Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Iron
2
Start by plugging in your waffle iron to preheat. This step ensures that your waffles will crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled stuffing, eggs, garlic powder, and parsley. Stir it all together. It might look a bit dry initially, but that’s where the broth comes in.
Step 3: Add the Broth
4
Gradually add the chicken broth or turkey stock. You want the mixture to be moist but not drenched. It should hold its shape when scooped. This blend is crucial for achieving the right waffle texture.
Step 4: Grease the Waffle Iron
5
Once your waffle iron is ready, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help prevent any sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
6
Scoop about a cup of the mixture into the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions. You’re looking for a golden brown color—approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
7
Once the waffles are done, remove them carefully. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings like gravy or cranberry chutney.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
Amount Per Serving
Calories716kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat30.9g48%
Saturated Fat7.9g40%
Cholesterol36mg12%
Sodium3070mg128%
Total Carbohydrate102g34%
Dietary Fiber8g32%
Sugars20g
Protein22g44%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some quick tips to make your cooking experience smoother:
Variations: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or cheese into your waffle mixture for an extra flavor punch.
Homemade Stuffing: If you don't have leftover stuffing, consider making a small batch just for this recipe.
Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra waffles. They reheat beautifully in a toaster or oven.
Experiment with Spices: Depending on your original stuffing flavor, you might want to adjust spices to enhance the profile.
Topping Ideas: Don’t be afraid to go wild! Fresh herbs, hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of feta could elevate your waffle game.
Susan Roberts is a California-based registered dietitian and the creator of Sweet Mama’s Kitchen, where she shares simple, comforting, and nutritious home-cooked recipes. As a busy mom, she focuses on easy, wholesome meals that bring joy to the table without sacrificing flavor. Susan’s passion lies in helping others create delicious, family-friendly dishes with love and confidence.