These savory Parmesan waffles take the classic breakfast favorite to a whole new level! Made with grated Parmesan in the batter and topped with a creamy lemon ricotta spread and fresh cherry tomatoes, these waffles are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and refreshing. Serve them for a special brunch or as a savory alternative to traditional waffles!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Waffles

1 cup whole milk
1 large egg
1 tbsp vegetable oil, plus more for brushing
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping

1 1/4 cups ricotta cheese
Milk, for thinning ricotta if needed
1 tsp lemon zest, plus more for serving
3 tbsp small mint leaves, 1 tbsp chopped, plus more for serving
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Waffles
Preheat the oven to 225°F (107°C) and place a wire rack on a baking sheet to keep waffles warm.

Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vegetable oil until smooth.

Step 3
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Create a well in the center and gradually whisk in the milk mixture until mostly smooth (small lumps are okay). Fold in the Parmesan cheese.

Step 4
Heat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s directions. Lightly brush with vegetable oil. Pour 1/4 cup batter into the center, close the lid, and cook until golden brown and crispy (about 2–3 minutes). Transfer to the wire rack in the oven to keep warm. Repeat with remaining batter.

Step 5: Make the Topping
Using an electric mixer, beat the ricotta on medium speed until light and fluffy, adding milk if needed for a smoother texture. Mix in lemon zest and chopped mint. Season with salt if needed.

Step 6
In a separate bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the remaining mint leaves.

Step 7: Assemble & Serve
Top each waffle with a generous dollop of lemon ricotta, spoon over the tomato mixture, and garnish with extra mint and lemon zest. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: ~361 kcal
Protein: ~15g
Carbohydrates: ~34g
Fat: ~19g
Saturated Fat: ~8g
Sodium: ~527mg
Fiber: ~1g
Sugar: ~5.5g

Why These Parmesan Waffles Are a Must-Try

Crispy, Cheesy Goodness: The Parmesan melts into the batter, creating a crispy exterior and a light, fluffy inside.
Fresh and Flavorful Toppings: The lemony ricotta and cherry tomatoes bring a bright, tangy contrast to the waffles.
Perfect for Any Time of Day: These waffles aren’t just for breakfast—they make a fantastic lunch, appetizer, or light dinner.
Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavor: This recipe uses basic pantry staples, but the combination of Parmesan, ricotta, and fresh mint gives it a sophisticated, restaurant-quality taste.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: The waffles can be prepped in advance and frozen, making them a great go-to meal when you’re short on time.

The Secret to Perfect Parmesan Waffles

Making the ultimate savory waffle requires a few simple techniques to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly, so always grate it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Let the Batter Rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes helps the flour absorb the liquid, creating a fluffier waffle.
Don’t Overmix: A few lumps in the batter are fine—overmixing can lead to tough waffles.
Crisping in the Oven: Placing cooked waffles on a wire rack in the oven at 225°F keeps them warm and crispy while you make the rest.

Why Ricotta is the Ultimate Topping

Ricotta is the perfect creamy counterbalance to the crispy, cheesy waffles. When whipped with lemon zest and fresh mint, it becomes light, fluffy, and slightly tangy—adding a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich Parmesan flavor.

Whipped for Lightness: Beating ricotta with an electric mixer makes it airy and spreadable.
Lemon Zest for Brightness: The zest adds a citrusy aroma and subtle acidity that balances the cheese.
Fresh Mint for a Herbaceous Twist: A little mint adds freshness and depth, making the dish feel light and summery.

If ricotta isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for:

Goat Cheese: Adds a tangier, slightly sharper taste.
Greek Yogurt: A lower-fat alternative that still provides creaminess and tang.
Mascarpone: A richer, slightly sweeter option that pairs well with lemon zest.

Why Cherry Tomatoes Add the Perfect Finishing Touch

Juicy, marinated cherry tomatoes bring sweetness, acidity, and a slight burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the waffles and ricotta.

Tossed with Olive Oil: A touch of extra virgin olive oil enhances their natural sweetness.
Seasoned with Salt & Pepper: A little kosher salt and fresh black pepper make the flavors pop.
Optional Balsamic Glaze: If you want a little extra tang, a drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully.

How to Serve Parmesan Waffles

These waffles are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions and pairings.

For Brunch:

Serve with a fried or poached egg on top for extra protein.
Pair with a light, citrusy mimosa or iced coffee for a perfect weekend brunch.

For Lunch or Dinner:

Add a side of grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or crispy bacon to make it a heartier meal.
Serve with a green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

As an Appetizer:

Cut the waffles into smaller pieces and serve as bite-sized canapés at a gathering.
Drizzle with a bit of honey or hot honey for a sweet-savory twist.

How to Store and Reheat Parmesan Waffles

These waffles store and reheat beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Lay waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the Toaster or Oven: Toast in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or pop them in a toaster for a quick, crispy reheat.

Customizing Your Parmesan Waffles

There are endless ways to switch up this recipe to match your preferences or what you have on hand.

Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-spicy contrast.
Try Different Herbs: Swap mint for basil, thyme, or chives for a different herbal flavor.
Add a Protein Boost: Mix crispy bacon, ham, or crumbled sausage into the batter for a more filling waffle.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Experiment with Cheese: Try a mix of Gruyère, white cheddar, or Asiago for a different cheesy profile.

Why These Savory Waffles Are a Game-Changer

A Unique Twist on a Breakfast Favorite: Perfect for those who prefer savory over sweet.
Great for Any Occasion: From brunch to lunch to dinner, these waffles work any time of day.
Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home: The combination of Parmesan, lemon, and ricotta makes this dish feel gourmet with minimal effort.
Easily Adaptable: Whether you tweak the cheese, toppings, or mix-ins, this recipe is endlessly customizable.

Conclusion

These savory Parmesan waffles are an exciting, flavor-packed alternative to traditional waffles, bringing together the crispy, cheesy goodness of Parmesan with the creamy, tangy freshness of lemon ricotta and cherry tomatoes. The balance of textures and flavors makes every bite a delight—crispy yet creamy, savory yet bright.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, looking for a light lunch, or simply craving something different, these waffles are a must-try. With endless ways to customize them, they’ll quickly become a staple recipe in your kitchen. So grab your waffle maker and enjoy a cheesy, crispy, and refreshing dish that feels both indulgent and light at the same time!

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