Preheat a nonstick waffle iron to medium-high. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees . In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and pepper.
In a medium bowl, beat the buttermilk, butter and eggs. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir to form a stiff batter. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese and the sausage.
Spoon some batter onto the preheated waffle iron and spread out evenly with a knife. Cook until golden-brown and crisp, following manufacturers' instructions. Repeat with the remaining batter, keeping the prepared waffles warm in the oven. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
