Have you ever wondered what other kind of culinary magic your waffle iron can perform? Probably a lot more than you ever imagined!
Here are 7 alternative uses for that waffle iron you have sitting in your cabinet but hardly ever use:
Bacon – With no splatter and fast cooking, the waffle iron is the best way to cook bacon, according to some foodies out there. Just cut the bacon strips in half, and put two 1/2 strips on each square of the heated waffle iron. Let cook for 3 to 6 minutes making sure to check periodically for your desired level of crispiness.
Hash Browns – Grate 2 medium potatoes (with skins) onto a towel, sprinkle some salt on top, then fold up the towel and twist to get out any excess moisture. Preheat the waffle iron and brush it with oil. Pile on the grated potato and cook for about 20 minutes. Be patient and leave it shut to allow the crust to develop. Top with ketchup or a poached egg. Delicious!
Panini – Why not make a grilled sandwich with a cool waffle pattern? First build your favorite sandwich and butter each side of the exposed bread. We suggest stuffing it with cheddar or monterey-jack cheese that will melt and bubble on your waffle iron, leaving you a tasty treat for later. For a really delectable Oregon Summer Panino, check out this recipe from the kitchn.
Scrambled Eggs – The most classic breakfast food with a twist. Whisk 2 or 3 eggs together. Brush both sides of your waffle iron with oil or spray with cooking spray. Add your eggs to the waffle maker with a little salt and pepper to taste. Close and wait one to three minutes, watching the sides of the iron for the eggs to fluff as they cook. Use a spatula to easily lift the scrambled eggs off the waffle iron. Enjoy!
Quesadillas – Following the same trend as the waffle iron panini, quesadillas can be filled with any of your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe for chicken and cheese quesadilla: Pre-heat and spray both sides of the waffle iron with cooking spray. Place one small tortilla on the bottom and stack shredded chicken and mozzarella cheese. Place the 2nd tortilla on top and close. Cook for about 4 minutes.
Pizza – Waffle iron pizza is actually pretty fun and easy to make, especially if you use store bought dough. First heat up your waffle iron, and then simply spread the pizza dough on the bottom of the iron. Close and allow to cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip over and cook for another few minutes. Open and spread the sauce, cheese and your desired toppings. Leave on the waffle iron (with the lid up!) until the cheese melts.
Cinnamon Rolls – You’ll want to use the store-bought dough in a can for this recipe. Put 4 cinnamon rolls on the waffle iron, one in each square. Close the lid and wait about 2 to 4 minutes for the rolls to get brown on the outside, but they should still be soft in the middle. If you’re not counting calories, warm up the accompanying frosting and drizzle on top. – Yum!
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