Garlic Bread Herb Waffles

These garlic bread waffles blend the crave-worthy flavor of classic garlic bread with the crispy fun of waffles. They are my answer for when I want something a little extra for dipping in pasta sauce or as a snack for a crowd. I first tried these on pizza night as a bread alternative and they disappeared off the table before our main course arrived

I first served these for a family movie night and now it is our go-to accompaniment for saucy mains. Everyone loves breaking them apart and dunking the golden squares.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: makes the batter rich and yields tender waffles Use the freshest milk you have
• Large eggs: provide structure and ensure the waffle puffs up beautifully
• Unsalted butter melted: brings classic bread flavor Choose high-quality for best taste
• Olive oil: adds savory depth and keeps the crumb soft Go for extra-virgin if possible
• All-purpose flour: forms the base and creates the signature waffle texture Check freshness for fluffier waffles
• Baking powder: offers the rise for light crisp waffles Test your baking powder is active
• Salt: enhances every flavor and balances the batter Use fine grain for even distribution
• Black pepper: adds a background warmth and balances the richness Freshly ground gives the biggest punch
• Garlic finely minced: infuses the batter with bold aroma Go for plump cloves and mince just before using
• Fresh parsley: brightens each bite and brings a pop of color Choose deep green flat-leaf parsley
• Dried oregano: adds herby Italian notes Crush in your palm right before mixing
• Parmesan cheese grated: melts into the batter and gives that addictive savory bite freshly grated tastes best

Instructions

Preheat the Waffle Iron:

Set your waffle iron to medium-high heat and let it get very hot This creates that essential crisp crust

Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together milk eggs melted butter and olive oil until completely blended You want an evenly pale yellow mixture for the lightest waffles

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl stir flour baking powder salt and black pepper Using a fork or small whisk helps distribute the leavening evenly

Make the Batter:

Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined Some lumps are okay Over-mixing will make the waffles tough

Add Flavorings:

Fold in minced garlic chopped parsley dried oregano and grated Parmesan cheese Turn the batter gently so the herbs and cheese are spread throughout

Prepare the Waffle Iron:

Lightly brush or spray the hot waffle iron with oil or cooking spray for easy release and better browning

Cook the Waffles:

Spoon enough batter to just cover the waffle grid Close the lid and cook for three to five minutes until deeply golden and crisp The aroma will be garlicky and irresistible

Serve and Garnish:

Carefully lift the waffle out and repeat with remaining batter Stack onto a plate and sprinkle with extra fresh parsley Serve warm Marinate sauce on the side and a little extra melted butter are both delicious

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I am always amazed by how the grated Parmesan turns the waffles so savory and crisp. My youngest loves to help sprinkle the extra parsley and proudly calls it her secret ingredient. When we first made these for a family brunch everyone asked for the recipe.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a toaster or oven at high heat to recapture the freshly-baked crispness To freeze cool completely lay flat on a tray then transfer to a freezer bag Waffles reheat best straight from frozen in a toaster or oven No sogginess just crisp edges Avoid letting them sit out uncovered as the air will soften their crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap fresh parsley for basil chives or even a hint of thyme for a new verdant kick If you prefer sharper cheese use aged Grana Padano or even a robust pecorino romano for extra savory bite For a non-dairy option use plant milk vegan butter and vegan Parmesan style shreds Every batch turns out tasty with these swaps

Serving Suggestions

These waffles crave sauce Serve with a warm bowl of marinara or garlicky herbed butter as a dip Pair them as a playful side with tomato soup vegetable minestrone or any Italian main Cut them into strips for easy party finger food You can also top classic salads with wedges for delicious cheesy garlic crunch

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Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations Inspired by the garlic bread basket at Italian-American restaurants this fusion puts a fun twist on familiar favorites In summer fold in a bit of chopped sun-dried tomato or fresh basil for a sunny herbaceous flavor During winter use a little more Parmesan and oregano for extra comfort and aroma

Recipe FAQ

→ How can I make these waffles extra cheesy?

For a cheesier result, add 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella to the batter along with the Parmesan.

→ What sauces pair well with garlic bread waffles?

Marinara sauce, melted butter, or even garlic aioli are excellent choices for dipping or drizzling.

→ Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

It's best to cook the batter soon after mixing, but you can prep the wet and dry ingredients separately in advance.

→ Are there herb alternatives for parsley?

You can substitute parsley with fresh basil, chives, or even a blend of Italian herbs for a new flavor profile.

→ How do I make these vegan?

Replace milk with plant-based alternatives, eggs with egg replacer, and use vegan butter and cheese. Check all ingredients for allergens.

→ Do these waffles freeze well?

They freeze well—simply cool completely, wrap, and freeze; reheat in a toaster or oven for best texture.