Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili on Cornbread Waffle is a bold, comforting dish that combines smoky bacon, lean ground turkey, warm spices, rich bourbon, and sweet maple syrup. Served over crispy, golden cornbread waffles, this hearty meal is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors—guaranteed to warm you up and satisfy big appetites.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Smoky Flavor – Maple syrup and bacon create irresistible depth.
- Unique Presentation – Chili served over cornbread waffles.
- Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein and fiber.
- Perfect for Brunch or Dinner – Versatile comfort meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish – Great for gatherings.
- Bold Southern-Inspired Twist – Classic chili elevated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chili
- 4 pieces bacon – Adds smoky richness.
- 1 lb lean ground turkey – Light yet hearty protein.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Sweet, aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Savory depth.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – Warm spice.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper – Gentle heat.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Smoky flavor boost.
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander – Earthy undertone.
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes – Rich tomato base.
- 15 oz red kidney beans – Texture and heartiness.
- 1/4 cup bourbon – Deep, slightly caramelized flavor.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – Sweet balance.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances overall flavor.
For the Cornbread Waffles
- 8.5 oz Jiffy corn muffin mix – Easy, golden base.
- 1 egg – Structure and richness.
- 1/3 cup whole milk – Moisture.
- 1/4 cup minced onion (optional) – Extra bite.
- 1/4 cup minced cilantro (optional) – Fresh finish.
Equipment
- Waffle iron
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Bacon
Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve bacon fat in the pot.
Brown the Turkey
Add ground turkey to the bacon fat and break apart with a wooden spoon. Add diced onion and cook for 6–8 minutes until onion is translucent and turkey is fully cooked.
Add Spices
Stir in cumin, cayenne, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to toast the spices.
Simmer the Chili
Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, bourbon, and maple syrup. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Waffle Batter
While chili simmers, mix corn muffin mix, egg, and milk according to package instructions. Stir in minced onion and cilantro if using.
Cook the Waffles
Preheat waffle iron to medium heat (350°F–375°F). Lightly grease and pour about 3/4 cup batter into the iron. Cook until steaming stops or waffle is golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter (makes 2 large Belgian waffles).
Assemble and Serve
Place half a waffle on each plate. Spoon chili generously over the waffle. Top with crispy bacon pieces, minced raw onion, and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Cook Off the Alcohol – Simmer thoroughly to mellow bourbon flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness – Add more maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Control Heat – Increase cayenne for more spice.
- Crispy Waffles Matter – Cook waffles until firm to prevent sogginess.
- Great for Leftovers – Chili tastes even better the next day.
Nutritional Information
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 699 kcal per serving
Per Serving:
- Carbohydrates: 95g
- Protein: 44g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 107mg
- Sodium: 868mg
- Potassium: 1405mg
- Fiber: 15g
- Sugar: 34g
- Vitamin A: 847 IU
- Vitamin C: 24mg
- Calcium: 201mg
- Iron: 8mg
Perfect Pairings
- Side salad with vinaigrette
- Pickled jalapeños
- Coleslaw
- Iced tea or bourbon cocktail
Ideal Occasions
- Weekend brunch
- Game day gatherings
- Cozy fall dinners
- Comfort food nights
Storage & Serving Tips
- Store chili separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze chili for up to 2 months.
- Reheat chili on stovetop before serving.
- Toast leftover waffles before topping to restore crispness.
Creative Variations to Try
- Beef Version – Swap turkey for ground beef.
- Spicy Maple Kick – Add chipotle peppers.
- Cheesy Finish – Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top.
- Vegetarian Option – Replace turkey with plant-based crumbles.
- Mini Waffle Bites – Use smaller waffle iron for party servings.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Chili too thin – Simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Too sweet – Add splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Waffles soggy – Cook waffles longer before assembling.
- Too spicy – Stir in a spoonful of sour cream.
Why This Recipe Works
The smoky bacon fat builds a flavorful base for the turkey, while bourbon adds caramelized depth and maple syrup balances with sweetness. Slow simmering melds the spices and tomatoes into a rich chili. Serving over crisp cornbread waffles creates a satisfying contrast of textures—crispy, saucy, smoky, and sweet all in one bite.
Final Thoughts
Maple Bacon Bourbon Chili on Cornbread Waffle is a creative, soul-warming dish that blends comfort food with bold flavors. Whether for brunch, dinner, or entertaining, this hearty recipe delivers big taste and unforgettable presentation.
