These savory sourdough cheese waffles are a tasty way to use up sourdough discard! With a crispy outside and cheesy goodness inside, they make a delightful snack or breakfast.
I love making these when I have leftover sourdough! They’re super easy to whip up, and who can resist cheese? You might even want to make an extra batch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: The star of the show! Unfed sourdough starter adds a unique tang. If unavailable, you could use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor kick. However, feel free to switch it up with mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta for different tastes. I love the idea of using smoked gouda for a deeper flavor!
Milk: Any type of milk works here. If you’re plant-based, almond milk or oat milk are great alternatives. Whole milk yields a richer waffle, while skim will make them a bit lighter.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and chives offer a fresh taste, but you can swap them with basil or dill based on your preference. I enjoy mixing in some rosemary for extra depth!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Waffles?
The key to crispy waffles lies in how you prepare and cook them. It all starts with the batter. Avoid overmixing; just stir until combined. This keeps the waffles tender yet fluffy inside.
- Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly for even cooking.
- Be sure to lightly grease the iron before adding batter; this helps to achieve that crispy texture.
- Cook the waffles until golden brown, checking occasionally. Cooking times vary by machine, so trust your own waffle iron!
- Let them rest on a wire rack after cooking. This prevents sogginess by allowing steam to escape.
How to Make Savory Sourdough Cheese Waffles!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed sourdough starter)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Flavor Additions:
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or any cheese of choice)
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
- Optional: ground black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 4-6 minutes to cook each waffle. Overall, you can expect to have warm, cheesy waffles ready in about 30 minutes or less! Perfect for a quick brunch or savory snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures that your waffles will cook evenly and turn out crispy.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, milk, and olive oil (or melted butter) until everything is well blended. It should be nice and smooth!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and soda, so your waffles rise nicely!
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, or your waffles could become tough.
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs. If you’d like extra flavor, add a pinch of ground black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika to the mix. Fold gently to keep the batter light.
6. Prepare the Waffle Iron:
Lightly grease the preheated waffle iron with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help prevent sticking and keep those waffles crispy!
7. Cook the Waffles:
Spoon the batter onto the waffle iron, spreading it out evenly. Use enough batter to fill the grid without overflowing. Close the waffle iron and cook according to your appliance’s instructions, typically for about 4-6 minutes.
8. Enjoy the Waffles:
Once the waffles are golden brown and crisp, carefully remove them and place them on a wire rack. This keeps them crisp and prevents steaming. Serve them warm, and feel free to top with more herbs or your favorite savory toppings like sour cream, avocado, or even a fried egg!
Final Note:
These savory sourdough cheese waffles are a delightful way to use up your sourdough discard. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, herb-filled goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta. Each will bring a unique flavor to your waffles!
Can I Prepare the Batter in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken up a bit when chilled.
How Should I Store Leftover Waffles?
If you have leftover waffles, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a toaster or an oven for the best crispiness!
What Can I Pair with These Waffles?
These waffles pair wonderfully with sour cream, avocado, or a fried egg. You can also enjoy them with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal!