Take Inspiration From Breakfast And Transform A Box Of Jiffy Cornbread Into A Chili-Stuffed Delight

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

If you've got a box of Jiffy cornbread mix, you're well on your way to a marvelous side dish; however, there are a number of simple ways to transform this quick bread into a fully-fledged meal. While chili and cornbread typically go well alongside one another, you can make this even more fun by stuffing the chili inside your cornbread instead. Take it a step further with a breakfast-inspired upgrade and make chili-stuffed cornbread waffles.

In a video shared on YouTube, creator Sandwichcutiecat demonstrates how to ditch the oven and make boxed cornbread in your waffle maker, further enhancing this dish with the inclusion of a chili, cheese, and onion filling. Using what appears to be a waffle iron with a deep well (similar to this Presto Stuffler Stuffed Waffle Maker), she begins by whisking up a box of Jiffy cornbread mix into a batter. Next, she spoons about half the batter into the waffle iron and follows this with a slice of cheese, a couple of scoops of chili, freshly chopped red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Topping this off with a second layer of cheese, she adds the rest of the Jiffy cornbread waffle batter, ensuring the filling is fully covered and sealed before closing the waffle maker and letting everything cook. The process is straightforward while leaving plenty of room for culinary creativity.

Transforming a box of Jiffy cornbread into a chili-filled waffle can be as simple or complex as you please. Try a boxed mix hack for extra-moist cornbread by combining Jiffy mix with your preferred brand of yellow cake mix. The added sweetness will provide a delightful balance against the savory notes of your chili. Use canned chili for a more streamlined treat or swap in your favorite homemade recipe, which can be particularly great if you're looking to use up leftovers.

Take even more inspiration from breakfast foods by adding bits of cooked bacon into the chili and cheese filling of your waffle. Ground cooked sausage will also amp up the taste and texture of the stuffing. Otherwise, get creative with your choice of cheeses, or try a dairy-free option. You can also use a plant-based chili for your filling. While this filled waffle is presented like a sandwich, consider topping it with a fried egg for added breakfast-inspired protein, and eating it with a fork and knife.

For a lunch or dinner-style version of this waffle, draw inspiration from Tasting Table's barbecue pork-stuffed cornbread recipe by preparing it in a waffle iron. There's little need for sides or other accompaniments as the waffle is filled with everything to transform it into a complete meal. It's simply a matter of building and filling the waffle however you desire and enjoying it to the last bite.