Save Cornbread Waffles with Buttermilk Gravy is the ultimate comfort food breakfast when you want something playful yet truly satisfying. Fluffy buttermilk cornbread waffles create the perfect base for a creamy sausage gravy making this dish an instant brunch favorite for cozy weekends and holiday mornings alike.
My family first requested these on a snowy morning and now whenever there is a special breakfast occasion these waffles and savory gravy have become an expected treat. They are the kind of meal that gets everyone out of bed with a smile.
Ingredients
- Yellow cornmeal: brings authentic cornbread flavor Rich golden color is best with fresh stoneground cornmeal
- All-purpose flour: provides structure to keep the waffles crisp not crumbly Choose unbleached for a more natural taste
- Granulated sugar: adds the slightest touch of sweetness to complement the savory gravy
- Baking powder and baking soda: ensure the waffles rise tall and fluffy Check that they have not expired for the best lift
- Salt: enhances every flavor from the cornmeal to the sausage gravy Use fine sea or kosher salt for best control
- Large eggs: bind and lighten the waffle batter Fresh eggs will yield the fluffiest texture
- Buttermilk: delivers the tang and tender crumb of true Southern waffles Whole buttermilk offers the richest result
- Unsalted butter melted and cooled: brings richness and classic cornbread taste Use high quality butter for flavor
- Vegetable oil: helps achieve a crisp golden exterior on every waffle Try a neutral oil like grapeseed or canola
- Breakfast sausage either pork or turkey: gives depth to the gravy Choose fresh uncooked ground sausage for the juiciest texture
- Unsalted butter: forms the roux and deepens the savory base for the gravy
- All-purpose flour: thickens the gravy to a velvety consistency Sift before using for a smoother sauce
- Whole milk: creates a creamy gravy with just the right body Use cold milk to avoid lumps
- Buttermilk (for gravy): finishes the gravy with mild tang matching the waffles perfectly Full-fat gives the smoothest pour
- Freshly ground black pepper and optional cayenne: give a gentle heat Extra coarse pepper adds beautiful speckles
- Chopped chives or parsley: lend fresh color and a fragrant finish Garnish right before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Iron:
- Plug in your waffle iron and set it to a medium-high setting Allow it to become thoroughly preheated then lightly brush or mist with oil to prevent sticking This helps create a deep golden crust
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together your cornmeal flour sugar baking powder baking soda and salt Continue until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without clumps
- Combine the Wet Ingredients:
- In a second bowl whisk the eggs buttermilk melted butter and oil until the mixture is completely smooth This ensures every bite is tender and flavorful
- Make the Batter:
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry bowl Using a gentle hand fold everything together just until combined Some small lumps are fine and prevent tough waffles
- Cook the Waffles:
- Ladle batter onto the center of your hot waffle iron spreading slightly Close the lid and cook 4 to 5 minutes or until deeply golden and crisp on the outside Transfer finished waffles to a low oven to keep warm
- Brown the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat crumble sausage into small pieces Stir and cook until no pink remains and the fat renders leaving crisp bits about 6 minutes Drain excess fat if desired
- Build the Roux:
- Lower the heat to low and add butter to the pan Stir until it melts then sprinkle over the flour Stir constantly scraping the pan to prevent burning Cook for about 90 seconds until the flour loses its raw smell
- Make the Gravy:
- While stirring continuously slowly whisk in the milk followed by the buttermilk Raise heat back to medium and cook whisking often until smooth and thickened around 4 minutes
- Season and Finish:
- Stir in pepper salt and a pinch of cayenne if you enjoy extra kick Taste for seasoning The gravy should be velvety and savory with a gentle tang
- Assemble and Serve:
- Place waffles on warm plates then pour a generous amount of hot sausage gravy over each portion Sprinkle with chives or parsley to add color and freshness Serve immediately for best texture
Save I especially love the tang that comes from the buttermilk in both the waffles and gravy It brings brightness and balance that makes every bite special When I first introduced this meal at a family brunch the taste and homemade touch opened up so many conversations about memories of classic Southern cooking
Storage Tips
Keep extra waffles and gravy separate in airtight containers in the fridge Both will stay fresh for up to three days Reheat waffles in a toaster or oven to restore crispness Gently heat gravy on low whisking in a splash of milk if needed to bring back its creaminess
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a leaner version use turkey or plant-based sausage Non-dairy milk and a splash of apple cider vinegar can stand in for buttermilk Gluten-free flour blends work if you double check the baking powder is also gluten-free
Serving Suggestions
Pair with soft scrambled eggs sauteed greens or a quick fruit salad Try drizzling with a little hot honey or serving a dollop of pepper jelly on the side
Cultural and Historical Context
Cornbread has deep roots in Southern home cooking and often appeared alongside hearty gravies in farmhouse breakfasts Making it into waffles is a playful twist giving you more golden crispness and perfect cups for soaking up every drop of savory sauce
Save This cozy brunch dish proves that simple ingredients can create memorable moments Serve with a bright garnish for the perfect finishing touch.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep the waffles crispy?
Place finished waffles on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F) to keep them crisp until serving.
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For vegetarian options, use plant-based sausage and substitute broth for some milk.
- → How can I make the gravy thicker?
Let the gravy simmer a bit longer, stirring often. Add a little more flour if needed for extra thickness.
- → Is the gravy spicy?
The gravy has a gentle kick if you add cayenne. Adjust pepper and cayenne amounts for your desired spice level.
- → What are good garnishes or sides?
Chives, parsley, or hot sauce make great toppings. Pair with sauteed greens for a classic Southern touch.