Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! My Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle is one of those meals that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to fill your family’s bellies with something hearty and delicious. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, and a bit of spice creates a comforting chili that pairs perfectly with fluffy cornbread waffles.

This recipe is a favorite in my house because it brings everyone together around the table. It’s great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip it up without breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The combination of chili and cornbread waffles makes for an unforgettable meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, making this a go-to choice for family dinners.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Make-Ahead Potential: This chili tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Each bite is warm and filling, ideal for cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

For the Chili

• 4 pieces bacon
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 yellow onion (medium-sized, diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 15 ounces red kidney beans
• 1/4 cup bourbon substitute (like apple cider vinegar or additional broth)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Cornbread Waffles

• 8.5 ounces Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup whole milk

Optional Toppings

• 1/4 cup onion (minced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (minced)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to customize your Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change up the beans: Try black beans or pinto beans if you prefer!
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like more heat.

How to Make Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by placing a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the bacon pieces and sauté until they are crisp. This step not only gives us delicious bacon but also leaves behind flavorful fat that we’ll use to cook our turkey. Once crispy, scoop up the bacon with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Set them aside for later!

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

In the same pot with leftover bacon fat, add your lean ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. After about 6-8 minutes, toss in your diced onion. Cook until it becomes translucent; this helps enhance its natural sweetness while ensuring our turkey is cooked through.

Step 3: Spice It Up!

Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute—this will help release all those beautiful spices into our dish.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Next comes the star ingredients: diced tomatoes and red kidney beans! Pour them into the pot along with your bourbon substitute and maple syrup. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a boil before reducing the heat to low or medium-low. Cover it up and let it simmer for about 30 minutes; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Waffle Batter

While your chili simmers away happily on the stove, grab another bowl to mix together your corn muffin mix according to package instructions along with an egg and milk. This will be your delightful cornbread waffle base!

Step 6: Cook Your Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron to medium heat (around 350°F to 375°F). Grease it lightly before pouring in about 3/4 cup of batter. Cook until steaming stops or until your waffle iron signals it’s done! Repeat this until all batter is used—these waffles will serve as a fantastic foundation for your chili!

Step 7: Serve It Up

To plate this gorgeous dish, place half of a waffle on each plate. Spoon generous amounts of that savory chili over each half-waffle and finish off with crispy bacon pieces on top. If you’d like, sprinkle minced raw onion and cilantro as well—these toppings add freshness that balances out the richness perfectly!

Enjoy every warm bite of this Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle

Making this delightful dish is a joy, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate it to new heights!

• Choose quality bacon: The flavor of your chili will significantly benefit from high-quality bacon. Opt for thick-cut bacon to get that perfect crispiness and rich smokiness.
• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less cayenne pepper and gradually add more to taste. Balancing the spices will ensure everyone enjoys the meal without overwhelming their palate.
• Let it simmer longer: For an even deeper flavor, allow the chili to simmer for longer than 30 minutes. This extra time lets the spices meld beautifully together, giving you a rich and hearty dish.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to personalize your chili with various toppings! Consider adding shredded cheese or avocado slices for creaminess that complements the spiciness of the chili.
• Make ahead for meal prep: This chili holds up wonderfully in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week!

How to Serve Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle

Presentation adds an enticing touch to your meal, and this dish is no exception. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that balances out the spicy flavors of the chili.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions not only add crunch but also a burst of color that brightens up your plate.
• Fresh lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving enhances all the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet corn complements the cornbread waffle perfectly and brings an additional layer of flavor and texture.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini make for a healthy side that pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the smoky chili flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili on Cornbread Waffle is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep cornbread waffles in a separate container to maintain their texture. They can last for about 2-3 days in the fridge.
• If you have extra toppings like crispy bacon or cilantro, store those separately as well.

Freezing

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your containers with the date!
• The cornbread waffles can also be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating

• To reheat chili, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions until hot.
• For cornbread waffles, pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed. This will help restore their crispiness!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use different types of meat in Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili On Cornbread Waffle?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or beef would work wonderfully as alternatives to turkey. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary until fully cooked.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili on Cornbread Waffle vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and turkey. You can add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have bourbon for the chili?

If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute with vegetable broth or apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor without alcohol.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili on Cornbread Waffle is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to reach out with your thoughts or variations!