Hash Brown Waffles are a crispy and tasty twist on a breakfast classic! Made with shredded potatoes, they are cooked until golden brown in a waffle iron, giving you the perfect crunch.
These waffles are not just for breakfast, though! I love serving them with eggs or topping them with cheese and bacon—so yum! It’s a fun way to enjoy potatoes, and the kids love them too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: These are the star of the dish. Make sure they’re thawed for even cooking. If you don’t have frozen, grating fresh potatoes works too. Just soak them in cold water to remove excess starch and squeeze out moisture before using.
Large Egg: The egg binds everything together. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This adds great flavor! I prefer sharp cheddar for a stronger taste, but feel free to swap it for mozzarella or any cheese you like.
Green Onions: These add freshness. If you’re not a fan, chopped bell peppers or even cooked spinach work well. Skip them entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor.
Bacon: A great topping! You can use turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. Crispy fried tofu can also be a delicious alternative!
How Can You Make Perfectly Crispy Hash Brown Waffles?
The key to crispy hash browns lies in moisture control. Start with thawed hash browns and ensure they’re not waterlogged. If using fresh potatoes, rinse, soak, and squeeze to remove excess starch and moisture.
- Prep your waffle iron by preheating it and greasing it lightly for easy release.
- Spread the mixture evenly, pressing it down gently to form a flat, compact layer.
- Cook until golden brown. Cooking times may vary by waffle iron—don’t rush this part!
Let the waffles rest for a minute after cooking for extra crispiness. This little step makes a big difference! Enjoy a deliciously crispy breakfast treat!
How to Make Hash Brown Waffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Waffles:
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4 strips cooked bacon
- 2 large eggs, cooked to your preference (fried or scrambled)
- Butter, for serving
- Optional garnish: extra chopped chives, sour cream or crème fraîche
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 12 minutes to cook the waffles. You can have delicious Hash Brown Waffles ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps the waffles cook evenly and become crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This mixture forms the base of your waffle.
3. Prepare the Waffle Iron:
Lightly grease the waffle iron with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. You want those delicious waffles to slide right out!
4. Cook the Waffles:
Spread the hash brown mixture evenly into the waffle iron, pressing it down gently to create a flat layer. Close the waffle iron and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the waffles are crispy and golden brown. Every waffle iron is different, so keep an eye on it!
5. Assemble Your Delicious Sandwich:
Once done, carefully remove the hash brown waffles and place them on a plate. For a tasty sandwich, layer one waffle on the plate, add crispy bacon strips and a cooked egg on top, and finish with another hash brown waffle!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Place a small pat of butter on top of the waffle sandwich for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some chopped chives or green onions and add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Hash Brown Waffles immediately with a refreshing side of juice or your favorite breakfast beverage. Enjoy your hearty and satisfying meal!
These crispy, cheesy hash brown waffles with bacon and eggs are sure to become a breakfast favorite!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes! If using fresh potatoes, grate them and soak in cold water for about 15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain well and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Hash Brown Waffles?
Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or back in the waffle iron for a few minutes to get them crispy again!
Can I Make These Waffles Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the hash brown mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. This can save you time in the morning when you’re ready to cook.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can use any cheese you like! Mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack can also work well for a fun flavor twist. Just ensure it’s shredded for easy mixing!