Savory Pizza Stuffed Waffles

These Pizza Stuffed Waffles transform ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary snack that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings at once. The crispy waffle exterior gives way to gooey cheese, spicy pepperoni, and tangy pizza sauce for a handheld treat that delights kids and adults alike.

I created these on a rainy Saturday when my nephews were visiting and we couldn't decide between waffles for breakfast or pizza for lunch. The compromise became our new family favorite that everyone requests whenever they visit.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour creates the perfect waffle texture with just the right crispness
• Baking powder gives the waffles their light and fluffy interior
• Granulated sugar balances the savory fillings with subtle sweetness
• Milk adds moisture and richness to the waffle batter
• Vegetable oil ensures the waffles stay tender rather than tough
• Vanilla extract enhances the waffle flavor without making them too sweet
• Pizza sauce provides the classic tomato base flavor in minimal amounts
• Sliced pepperoni adds spicy meaty goodness that crisps slightly when broiled
• Shredded mozzarella cheese creates that essential gooey stretchy pull when melted

How To Make Pizza Stuffed Waffles

Prepare the batter

Whisk the dry ingredients first flour baking powder and salt until fully combined. This prevents clumping and ensures even rising. In a separate bowl thoroughly combine the wet ingredients egg sugar milk oil and vanilla until completely smooth. The separation prevents the baking powder from activating too early.

Combine and mix

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually while stirring constantly. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth batter with no visible lumps. The batter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.

Cook the waffles

Generously spray the waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray before preheating to medium high. Pour approximately half cup portions of batter into the center of the iron and close the lid. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The steam should mostly stop when they're done.

Prepare the filling

While the waffles cook prepare your pizza toppings. Have the pizza sauce mozzarella and pepperoni measured and ready. Slicing the pepperoni into smaller pieces helps distribute the flavor more evenly.

Assemble and finish

Carefully slice each waffle horizontally creating top and bottom halves. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the bottom halves being careful not to oversaturate. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and arrange pepperoni slices evenly across the surface.

Melt and serve

Place the assembled bottom halves under the broiler for 30 to 60 seconds until the cheese just melts. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Immediately place the top waffle halves over the melted filling press gently and serve while still warm.

My absolute favorite thing about these waffles is the contrast between the slightly sweet crispy exterior and the savory filling inside. My family has a tradition of Pizza Waffle Sundays now where everyone gets to customize their own fillings based on their pizza preferences.

Creative Variations

The beauty of these pizza waffles lies in their versatility. Try a breakfast version with scrambled eggs cheese and bacon bits for a morning twist. For vegetarians substitute the pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and olives. My niece loves a dessert variation using Nutella and sliced strawberries instead of pizza toppings proving the waffle base works beautifully with sweet fillings too.

Make Ahead Instructions

These pizza stuffed waffles are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch of plain waffles and freeze them separated by parchment paper. When ready to enjoy thaw overnight in the refrigerator then slice and add toppings. Broil and serve as directed. The assembled waffles can also be wrapped individually in foil and reheated in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes for an instant snack or quick dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pizza stuffed waffles with a side of extra warm pizza sauce for dipping. For a complete meal pair them with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to balance the richness. These waffles make perfect party food when cut into quarters and served on a platter with toothpicks. They're also ideal for lunchboxes wrapped in parchment paper as they taste great even at room temperature.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different pizza toppings in these stuffed waffles?

Absolutely! While pepperoni and mozzarella are classic choices, you can customize with your favorite pizza toppings like cooked sausage, ham, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Just ensure any meat is pre-cooked and vegetables are thinly sliced or pre-sautéed to remove excess moisture.

→ Can I make these waffles ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the waffles ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, warm the waffles in a toaster or oven, then add the fillings and broil until the cheese melts. This makes them perfect for quick breakfasts or party prep.

→ What can I serve with pizza stuffed waffles?

These savory waffles pair wonderfully with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, a simple green salad for balance, or fruit for a sweet contrast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside soup or a vegetable side dish.

→ Can I freeze these stuffed waffles?

Yes! Freeze the assembled and cooled stuffed waffles by wrapping individually in plastic wrap, then storing in a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

→ What if I don't have a waffle iron?

While a waffle iron creates the signature texture, you can adapt this concept using pancakes or even English muffins as the outer layers. Cook your pancakes, split and stuff them with the pizza toppings, then broil briefly to melt the cheese.

→ Are these waffles suitable for vegetarians?

The basic recipe includes pepperoni, which isn't vegetarian. However, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the pepperoni and using vegetable toppings instead, such as bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, or plant-based pepperoni alternatives.