If you are a fan of bold flavors, comforting textures, and a little spicy kick, then you are in for a treat with this Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe. It’s a complete crowd-pleaser that combines crispy, cheesy cornbread waffles infused with fresh jalapeños alongside a rich, savory turkey chile con queso dip. Perfect for brunch, game day, or any casual gathering, this dish brings together vibrant ingredients in a way that feels cozy yet exciting. Trust me, once you make these waffles and dip, they’re going to become your go-to for impressing friends or just indulging in something deliciously homemade.

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s the flours providing the perfect waffle crumb, the sharp cheddar adding melty cheesiness, or the spices in the turkey dip giving it that irresistible warmth.

Cornmeal: The backbone of the waffles, giving a classic cornbread texture with a bit of crunch.
Sweet rice flour: Adds tenderness and a subtle sweetness to balance the cornmeal.
Gluten-free oat flour: Provides a gentle nuttiness and helps hold the batter together.
Millet flour: Lends a subtle grain flavor and extra texture.
Granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness and caramelizes during cooking.
Baking powder: The magic agent that makes the waffles fluffy and light.
Kosher salt: Amplifies all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Eggs: Bind the batter and add richness.
Milk: Moistens the batter for soft, tender waffles.
Unsalted butter: Adds a buttery warmth and helps create crisp waffle edges.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of savory goodness in every bite.
Jalapeño: Brings that signature spicy kick; seeds removed for less heat if preferred.
Extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing, adding depth to the turkey chile mixture.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and complexity when cooked down.
Minced garlic: Essential aromatic that enhances every flavor in the dip.
Ground turkey: Lean protein that soaks up all the spices in the chile con queso dip.
Cumin: Earthy warmth tying the seasoning together.
Chili powder: Adds mild heat and smoky flavor.
Paprika: Contributes a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Cayenne pepper: Optional for a spicier punch in the dip.
Black pepper: For a final seasoning kick.
Diced tomatoes: Add brightness and texture to the turkey chile.
Butter (for cheese sauce): Creates a silky roux base for the dip.
Sweet rice flour (for cheese sauce): Thickens the sauce while keeping it smooth.
Milk (for cheese sauce): Makes the cheesy dip creamy and luscious.
Shredded sharp cheese (for cheese sauce): Melts into the perfect queso consistency.
Lime wedges (optional): For a zesty finish that brightens the rich flavors.

How to Make Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Begin by whisking together your cornmeal, sweet rice flour, oat flour, millet flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. This blend creates a flavorful yet balanced foundation for the waffles, ensuring each bite has the perfect mix of texture and subtle sweetness.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, crack your eggs and whisk them with milk until fully combined. Then, add the melted unsalted butter, which you’ll want to cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs. This wet mixture adds moisture and richness to make the waffles tender inside but crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Combine Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and whisk until you achieve a smooth batter. Gently fold in the sharp cheddar cheese and the minced jalapeño peppers. These additions infuse every waffle with cheesy pockets and a spicy zing that’s just right without overpowering.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

If you’re using an electric waffle iron, lightly spray with oil if needed and cook according to the instructions until golden brown. For stovetop waffle irons, heat the iron on medium heat then spray with oil. Pour about a scant ¼ cup of batter into each waffle square, cook for about 90 seconds, flip, and cook another 90 to 120 seconds until you see a beautiful golden crust. Transfer to a wire rack so the waffles crisp up perfectly as you work through the rest of the batter.

Step 5: Make the Turkey Chile Mixture

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced onion and garlic until softened and fragrant. Add ground turkey along with cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned, then stir in the drained diced tomatoes. This spicy, savory turkey filling is what transforms the dish from simple to extraordinary.

Step 6: Prepare the Queso Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the sweet rice flour to make a roux. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in shredded sharp cheese until the sauce is smooth and velvety. This luscious cheese sauce is the heart of the chile con queso dip.

Step 7: Combine the Dip

Fold the cooked turkey chile mixture into the cheese sauce, stirring gently until everything is well combined. This creates a rich, hearty dip that pairs beautifully with the spicy, cheesy cornbread waffles you just made.

How to Serve Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe

Garnishes

When serving your Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe, a few simple garnishes can elevate the whole experience. Fresh lime wedges are perfect for squeezing just before each bite, cutting through the richness with a burst of refreshing acidity. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or scallions on the dip to add both color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the spicy flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with crisp, bright sides to balance the hearty and spicy elements. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing crunch, while roasted sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness that resonates with the cornbread waffles. You might also serve some pickled jalapeños or a fresh tomato salsa on the side for a tangy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the traditional plate? Try serving the waffles cut into smaller squares as a fun appetizer with small bowls of the turkey chile con queso dip for dipping. You can also layer the waffles like a sandwich, spreading the dip in between slices for a handheld snack perfect for parties or game day. Another idea is to top the waffles with a spoonful of the dip, a sprinkle of fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream for an indulgent individual serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of this Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe, store the waffles and dip separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Waffles will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavor and texture, while the dip stays creamy and delicious for about 4 days.

Freezing

These waffles freeze beautifully. Place cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. The turkey chile con queso dip can also be frozen, though it may separate slightly upon thawing, so stirring well after reheating is essential to get that creamy texture back.

Reheating

For the crispiest waffles, reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F until warmed through and crisp on the outside. The dip works best reheated gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain smoothness. Microwave works in a pinch but be sure to stir often to prevent the cheese from clumping.

FAQs

Can I make the waffles gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe already uses gluten-free flours like sweet rice, oat, and millet flours, making it safe for gluten sensitivities. Just be sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

How spicy are the waffles and dip?

The spice level is moderate thanks to the jalapeño in the waffles and the chili spices in the turkey dip. You can easily adjust the heat by adding or removing jalapeño seeds or tweaking the amount of cayenne powder.

Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?

Yes, ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well here. Just cook them with the same spices to retain the signature flavors of the chile con queso dip.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can skip the turkey and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables in the queso sauce instead. Add beans for protein and still enjoy the hearty texture and cheesy goodness.

How do I get the waffles crispy on the outside?

Cooking them in a preheated waffle iron and then transferring finished waffles to a wire rack helps them crisp up nicely. Reheating in a toaster or oven also keeps that crisp exterior perfect.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and homey, packed with flavor and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding a big family, or just treating yourself, these waffles and that incredible dip will satisfy every craving for something cheesy, spicy, and utterly delicious. Give it a try—you’re going to love every bite.

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles with Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip Recipe

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4 from 32 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles paired with a hearty Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip offer a spicy and savory twist on traditional cornbread. The waffles are crispy on the outside with a tender crumb inside, infused with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeño heat. The accompanying turkey chile con queso dip is a rich, creamy blend of ground turkey, spices, tomatoes, and melted cheese, making it a perfect comfort food combination for brunch, appetizers, or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Waffles

¾ cup cornmeal
¼ cup sweet rice flour
¼ cup gluten-free oat flour
¼ cup millet flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 large jalapeño, seeds removed and minced

Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip

1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
½ cup yellow onion, minced
2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 large cloves)
½ lb ground turkey
½ teaspoon cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons sweet rice flour
1¾ cups milk
1½ cups shredded sharp cheese
Optional: lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, sweet rice flour, oat flour, millet flour, sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt until fully combined and uniform.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until the mixture is smooth and blended. Add the melted and cooled unsalted butter and whisk again to combine thoroughly.
Combine Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while whisking to create a smooth batter. Gently fold in the grated sharp cheddar cheese and minced jalapeño, distributing evenly through the batter without overmixing.
Cook Waffles (Electric Waffle Iron): Preheat the waffle iron and lightly spray with oil if necessary. Pour the batter onto the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions and cook until the waffles are golden brown and cooked through, typically about 3-5 minutes depending on your appliance.
Cook Waffles (Stovetop Waffle Iron): Heat the waffle iron over medium heat on both sides for 3 minutes. Lightly spray with oil. Pour a scant ¼ cup of batter into each waffle square. Cook for 90 seconds, then flip and cook for an additional 90-120 seconds or until golden brown. Transfer cooked waffles to a wire rack to crisp up and repeat with remaining batter.
Serve Waffles: Serve the waffles immediately or reheat gently in a toaster before serving.
Cook Turkey Mixture: In a skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground turkey along with cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until turkey is fully browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in drained diced tomatoes and remove from heat.
Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the sweet rice flour to create a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the shredded sharp cheese until it melts completely into a smooth sauce.
Combine Dip: Fold the cooked turkey mixture gently into the cheese sauce until fully incorporated and heated through.
Serve: Spoon the warm Turkey Chile Con Queso Dip into bowls. Serve alongside the freshly prepared cheddar jalapeño waffles. Garnish with optional lime wedges to add a bright contrast when serving.

Notes

Waffle cooking times may vary depending on waffle iron brand and model; watch for a golden brown exterior to determine doneness.
For spicier waffles, leave some jalapeño seeds in or add additional minced jalapeños to the batter.
The dip can be kept warm in a slow cooker or warming tray for parties or gatherings.
Gluten-free flours are used to keep this recipe gluten-friendly, but ensure your cornbread and oat flours are certified gluten-free if needed.
Leftover waffles can be refrigerated and reheated in the toaster or oven for best texture.
Use full-fat sharp cheddar cheese for the richest flavor and best melting in both waffles and dip.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American