Loaded Potato Waffles

Introduction

Loaded Potato Waffles are a savory, crispy, and satisfying dish that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the fun, crispy texture of waffles. These waffles are loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions, making them a hearty meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

I first made these waffles when I was looking for something that would feel both cozy and indulgent, and they did not disappoint. The crispiness of the waffle exterior with the creamy mashed potato interior creates the perfect contrast in texture, while the cheese and bacon add a burst of savory flavor. Topped with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce, they are as indulgent as they are delicious.

Whether served as a side dish or the main course, these waffles are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves potatoes and savory flavors. They’re perfect for any meal and offer a fun twist on traditional comfort food.

Perfect for:

• Brunch gatherings
• Breakfast or dinner
• Potato lovers
• Family meals
• Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Loaded Potato Waffles will become your new favorite:

• Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: These waffles have the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers, thanks to the mashed potatoes.
• Savory and Hearty: The combination of cheese, bacon, and green onions adds rich, savory flavors that make each bite a treat.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily add or swap in your favorite ingredients like sausage, jalapeños, or even sour cream for a twist.
• Easy to Make: This recipe uses basic ingredients and a waffle maker, making it quick and easy to prepare.
• Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a great way to repurpose them into a new meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 waffles (serves 2-4 people)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Loaded Potato Waffles:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons milk (or more as needed for consistency)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, extra bacon, chives, or shredded cheese

Ingredient Highlights

• Mashed Potatoes: The mashed potatoes are the star of this dish, providing the waffle batter with a soft, fluffy texture and a rich potato flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
• Bacon: Crumbled bacon gives the waffles a crispy, smoky flavor that enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a burst of freshness and a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Loaded Potato Waffles:

Prepare the Waffle Batter:

1. Preheat the Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed potatoes, egg, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Stir in the flour, baking powder, and more salt and pepper. Mix until the batter is thick but spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it up.
4. Add the Mix-ins: Fold in the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

Cook the Waffles:

5. Scoop the Batter: Using a spoon or a cup, scoop the batter onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading it out evenly.
6. Cook the Waffles: Close the waffle iron and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Remove the waffles from the waffle iron and serve immediately, topped with optional sour cream, extra bacon, chives, or more shredded cheese.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Waffles

Loaded Potato Waffles can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Sour Cream: Serve these waffles with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• As a Main Course: These waffles are hearty enough to serve as a main dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• With a Side Salad: Pair them with a fresh side salad for a more balanced meal.
• Topped with Extra Bacon and Cheese: For an even more indulgent treat, top these waffles with extra crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or a fried egg.

Additional Tips for Loaded Potato Waffles

Here are some tips to ensure your Loaded Potato Waffles are perfect every time:

• Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe is a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal.
• Don’t Overfill the Waffle Iron: Be sure to leave a little space around the edges when scooping the batter onto the waffle iron to prevent overflow.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the batter is too thick to spread easily, add a little extra milk to loosen it up.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients such as sautéed onions, peppers, or shredded ham for a different twist on the classic.
• Crispier Waffles: For extra crispy waffles, lightly spray the waffle iron with cooking spray before each batch.
• Try a Sweet Version: For a sweet twist, add a bit of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup to your waffles after cooking.

Recipe Variations for Loaded Potato Waffles

Here are 10 variations you can try for Loaded Potato Waffles:

• Loaded Potato Waffles with Sausage: Add crumbled cooked sausage to the batter for a heartier version.
• Jalapeño Loaded Potato Waffles: Add finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Loaded Potato Waffles: Use a flax egg and dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
• Buffalo Loaded Potato Waffles: Add a splash of buffalo sauce to the batter for a tangy, spicy twist.
• Sour Cream and Chive Loaded Potato Waffles: Top with sour cream and chopped fresh chives for a classic combination.
• Cheesy Bacon Loaded Potato Waffles: Add extra shredded cheese to the batter for a more indulgent, cheesy experience.
• Sweet Potato Loaded Waffles: Substitute mashed sweet potatoes for the regular potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
• Loaded Potato Waffle Fries: Make waffle fries by using the batter but spreading it out thinner to create crispier, waffle-shaped fries.
• Loaded Potato Waffles with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the batter for an earthy flavor.
• Herb-Infused Loaded Potato Waffles: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for an aromatic touch.

Freezing and Storage for Loaded Potato Waffles

• Freezing: After cooking, let the waffles cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a crispy texture.
• Storage: Store leftover waffles in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster for the best results.

Special Equipment for Loaded Potato Waffles

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Loaded Potato Waffles easier:

• Waffle Iron: The key tool for making these crispy potato waffles.
• Mixing Bowls: Use different-sized bowls for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk and Spoon: For mixing and folding ingredients into the batter.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for consistent results.
• Cooking Spray: To grease the waffle iron for easy waffle removal.

Frequently Asked Questions for Loaded Potato Waffles

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
   Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used in place of homemade mashed potatoes, but they may result in a slightly different texture.
2. Can I make these waffles ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the waffles ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later.
3. Can I add different types of cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to use different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
4. Can I make these waffles without a waffle iron?
   If you don’t have a waffle iron, you can cook the batter in a skillet to make potato pancakes.

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Conclusion

Loaded Potato Waffles are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the comfort of mashed potatoes in a new and exciting format. With crispy edges, a soft and fluffy interior, and a savory flavor profile full of cheese, bacon, and green onions, these waffles are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, these waffles are a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice.

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying, making it perfect for casual meals or special gatherings. Whether you’re serving them to guests or treating yourself, these loaded potato waffles will definitely be a hit at the table.

I’d love to see how your Loaded Potato Waffles turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!