Savory Herb Waffles with Sausage, Peppers, and Fried Egg

A creative breakfast twist that brings bold flavors and creamy richness to every bite.

By Medha deb
Created on

Waffles don’t have to be just for sweet breakfasts. In this creative recipe, herb-infused waffles form the tasty base for a full meal, topped with spicy sausage, tender peppers and onions, and finished with a golden fried egg. Both homestyle comfort and gourmet twist come together on your plate—perfect for brunch, breakfast-for-dinner, or an impressive all-in-one meal.

Why Make Savory Waffles?

Savory waffles offer a new dimension to the classic dish. Swapping maple syrup and fruit for robust herbs, spicy sausage, and silky eggs gives you a main-course worthy plate that satisfies at any hour. This recipe turns the familiar waffle into an entirely new experience by using:

  • Herbs in the batter, adding aroma and freshness
  • Spicy Italian sausage for a rich, meaty topping
  • Braised peppers and onions, sweet and tender
  • Fried eggs for creamy texture and flavor

If you love classic chicken and waffles, these herby waffles with sausage and peppers are a must-try alternative.

Recipe Overview

This meal is organized in four parts:

  • Preparing the herb waffle batter
  • Cooking the sausage
  • Sautéing and braising the peppers and onions
  • Assembling with a freshly fried egg

The process is straightforward, and much can be made in advance. Each component adds a distinct note—herbaceous, spicy, sweet, and creamy—coming together for a satisfying meal that’s as inviting as it is inventive.

Ingredients

ComponentIngredients
Herb Waffles
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped mixed herbs (such as parsley, basil, chives, oregano, or tarragon)
Sausage and Peppers
  • 8 ounces Italian sausage (spicy or sweet, loose or links, casings removed)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 large bell peppers (preferably assorted colors), seeded and sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 cup red wine
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
Eggs
  • 4 large eggs
  • Olive oil or butter, for frying
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

Start by cooking the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, transfer the sausage to a bowl and set aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan for the next step.

2. Sauté the Peppers and Onions

To the same pan, add the butter, then toss in the sliced onions and peppers. Season with oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring, until the onions turn translucent and the peppers begin to soften. Pour in the red wine, stir gently to scrape any browned bits from the pan, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes, until the peppers are very soft and sweet. Remove the lid, turn up the heat, and cook just long enough for the liquid to reduce and thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Make the Herb Waffle Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose and whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk, olive oil, and vinegar. Add the chopped herbs, then fold the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing just until combined (avoid over-mixing for fluffy waffles). Let the batter rest for five minutes.

4. Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly coat with nonstick spray or brush with oil. Pour in the batter (portion will depend on your iron), close, and cook until the waffles are crisp and golden. Transfer finished waffles to a warm oven while you prepare the rest.

5. Fry the Eggs

In a nonstick skillet, heat a dab of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Crack in the eggs. For sunny-side up, fry until the whites are set and the yolks remain runny. For over-easy, flip and cook to your preferred doneness. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

6. Assemble and Serve

  • Place a waffle on each plate.
  • Top with a generous scoop of the sausage-pepper-onion mixture.
  • Add a freshly fried egg to crown each serving.
  • Sprinkle extra chopped herbs or a hit of cracked black pepper for garnish, if desired.

Serve immediately—knife and fork ready!

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

  • Substitute the sausage: Use breakfast sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage for alternative flavors.
  • Waffle Batter Flavorings: Swap in cheeses (like grated Parmesan or aged cheddar), more fresh herbs, or even minced scallions.
  • Braiding in extra veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the peppers and onions for even more color and nutrition.
  • Egg Choices: Poached, scrambled, or even a soft-boiled egg also work beautifully in place of fried.
  • Make-ahead: Waffles can be made ahead and reheated. You can also sauté the sausage-pepper mixture in advance.
  • Serving suggestion: A side of simple mixed greens or a dash of hot sauce completes the meal.

Why This Combination Works

This dish draws inspiration from the beloved sausage and peppers submarine sandwich, replacing the crusty roll with a crisp, herbaceous waffle. The waffle’s fluffy interior soaks up the juices from the sausage and vegetables, while the fried egg adds luscious richness. Every bite delivers a blend of textures and bold, satisfying flavors:

  • The waffle’s herbs bring out the sausage’s spice.
  • Peppers and onions add sweetness and depth.
  • The runny yolk ties everything together, enriching each forkful.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Waffle Batter: Can be mixed and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance. Stir before using.
  • Cooked Waffles: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in a toaster, oven, or toaster oven for best texture.
  • Sausage and Pepper Mixture: Keeps well and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave. Makes delicious leftovers served over toast or rice, or even inside a sandwich.

Nutritional Highlights

This meal is both hearty and balanced. The whole wheat flour adds fiber and nuttiness, while the eggs and sausage provide protein, and the medley of colorful vegetables delivers vitamins and antioxidants. As with any recipe, ingredients and toppings can be adjusted to match your nutritional goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze the waffles?

Yes. Cooked waffles cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in a hot toaster or oven until crispy.

What herbs work best in the batter?

Parsley, chives, basil, oregano, and tarragon are all excellent in this recipe. Use one or a combination to suit your taste, and always use fresh if possible for maximum flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or sauté mushrooms for a similar savory note. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

Do I need a specific type of waffle maker?

Any standard waffle iron (Belgian or classic-style) will work. Just be sure not to overfill as the batter may expand beyond the edges.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes. Use a plant milk and a plant-based butter substitute, and ensure your sausage is dairy-free. Olive oil can be used for frying the eggs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an exciting way to shake up your breakfast, brunch, or dinner routine, these savory herb waffles with sausage, peppers, and fried egg are a delicious, filling option that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat. Customize the herbs and toppings, and enjoy a meal that’s both homey and novel—one that just might become a new household favorite.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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