Crispy Cheesy Waffle Hash Browns

Wafflemaker Hash Browns turn ordinary shredded potatoes into crispy, cheesy waffles with golden edges and a fluffy inside. The waffle iron does all the work, creating an even crunch that makes these perfect for breakfast or any meal that needs a fun twist on hash browns. Adding melted cheddar and ham takes the flavor up a notch, making every bite satisfying and delicious.

I first made these on a lazy weekend morning, and now they are a regular request at our house. The crispy edges combined with melty cheese never fail to impress.

Ingredients

• Olive oil cooking spray: for greasing the waffle iron, ensuring the hash browns do not stick and crisp nicely
• One 30-ounce bag of frozen shredded hash browns: thawed to remove excess moisture for the best texture
• Four tablespoons of melted butter: adding richness and helping with browning, choose unsalted if you want to control salt levels
• One teaspoon kosher salt: to season the potatoes evenly, giving balanced flavor
• Half a teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: for a subtle bite and depth
• Three-quarters cup grated cheddar cheese: which melts beautifully and adds savory richness, opt for sharp cheddar for extra flavor
• Optional ham: for a savory protein boost that pairs perfectly with the cheese, pick good quality diced ham for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Squeeze Excess Moisture:

After thawing the hash browns, squeeze out as much water as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the hash browns crisp up instead of steaming.

Mix and Season:

Place the dried hash browns in a large bowl. Pour the melted butter over them then sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning and butter to build flavor.

Prepare the Waffle Iron:

Preheat your waffle iron to the regular setting. Spray both the top and bottom plates thoroughly with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the hash browns crisp evenly.

Layer the Hash Browns:

For each section of your waffle iron, scoop about half a cup of the seasoned hash browns and spread it evenly. Sprinkle two tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese on top followed by a small amount of diced ham if using. Cover with about a quarter cup more grated hash browns to seal the cheesy layer inside.

Cook Until Golden:

Close the waffle iron and cook for about 15 minutes on the regular setting. The hash browns will turn golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. Depending on your waffle iron, cooking time may vary slightly, so check near the end.

Repeat:

Repeat these steps with remaining ingredients until all the hash brown waffles are cooked. Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

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Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a toaster oven or the waffle iron to bring back crispiness instead of the microwave to avoid soggy hash browns. For longer storage, freeze cooked hash brown waffles in a single layer inside freezer bags. Reheat straight from frozen in a toaster or waffle iron for a quick crispy treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the ham for crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky twist or use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Cheddar cheese can be replaced with Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Butter can be substituted with olive oil, but butter adds a richer flavor and promotes better browning. Fresh potatoes are a great alternative to frozen if you grate and dry them thoroughly before mixing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy waffle hash browns topped with a fried egg for a classic breakfast stack or alongside avocado slices and salsa for a fresh flavor boost. They work wonderfully as a side for lunch or dinner paired with eggs Benedict, breakfast sausage, or even a simple green salad. For a quick snack, enjoy them with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

• Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the thawed hash browns to get maximum crispiness
• Do not skip greasing both sides of the waffle iron well to prevent sticking and to get an even golden crust
• Try experimenting with fresh herbs like chives or parsley mixed into the hash browns for a fresh herbaceous twist that brightens the rich flavors

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead Of Frozen?

Yes, grate fresh potatoes and rinse thoroughly to remove excess starch. Squeeze out moisture well before use to achieve a crispy finish.

→ What Cheese Works Best For This Dish?

Cheddar is ideal for melting and flavor, but Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack also complement the potatoes nicely.

→ Do I Need To Grease The Waffle Iron?

Yes, spraying with cooking spray helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning on the edges.

→ Can These Be Made Without Ham?

Absolutely. You can omit ham or substitute with vegetables, bacon, or other proteins to suit your taste.

→ How Do I Keep The Waffles Crispy After Cooking?

Place finished waffles on a wire rack in a warm oven to maintain their crisp texture until serving.

→ Can I Prepare These Ahead Of Time?

Yes, cook and cool them completely before refrigerating or freezing. Reheat in a toaster oven or waffle iron for best results.