Crispy, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of a loaded baked potato, these Loaded Potato Waffles bring comfort food to a whole new level. Made with shredded potatoes, cheddar cheese, ham, and broccoli, they are perfectly golden brown and delicious. Each bite delivers the crunch of crispy edges, the melty goodness of cheese, and the savory depth of ham.
Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, these waffles are a game-changer. Top them with a soft-cooked egg for extra richness, and pair with sour cream and salsa for an irresistible meal. This easy-to-make dish is a great way to switch up your usual breakfast routine while still keeping it simple and satisfying.
Full Recipe:
- 2 cups shredded potatoes, squeezed dry (about 3 medium gold potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded broccoli (or shredded broccoli slaw from the produce section)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced deli ham (about 3 medium slices)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded potatoes, broccoli, cheddar, and ham.
- Add the flour and stir to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs and milk together until fluffy. Pour the egg mixture into the potato mixture and stir to combine.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat a waffle iron to medium-high heat and spray the inside with cooking spray.
- Scoop 2/3 to 1 cup of the potato mixture into the hot waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- While the waffles are cooking, prepare a poached or soft-cooked egg if desired.
- Remove the waffle from the iron and serve immediately, topped with extra cheddar cheese, a soft egg, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with chives or salsa.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 553 kcal | Servings: 3 waffles
The Ultimate Guide to Loaded Potato Waffles
Loaded Potato Waffles are a game-changing dish that brings together all the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a crispy, golden waffle. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, combining the comforting textures of shredded potatoes with the savory goodness of ham, cheese, and broccoli. This recipe is not only easy to make but also highly customizable, making it a great option for families, food lovers, and anyone looking for a unique twist on traditional waffles.
Why You’ll Love These Loaded Potato Waffles
One of the best things about Loaded Potato Waffles is their versatility. Unlike sweet waffles, these are completely savory, bringing together ingredients typically found in a classic baked potato. The combination of crispy shredded potatoes, melty cheddar cheese, and the saltiness of diced ham creates a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
Another reason to love this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a waffle iron, you can whip up a batch in no time. They require minimal prep work, and the waffle iron does most of the heavy lifting, giving you time to prepare toppings or additional sides while they cook.
Additionally, these waffles are a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Whether you have extra ham from a holiday meal, some shredded cheese in the fridge, or a bag of frozen shredded potatoes, this dish makes the most of ingredients you already have on hand.
The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Waffles
The key to making the crispiest, most delicious Loaded Potato Waffles is ensuring the potatoes are as dry as possible before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent them from crisping up properly, leading to a soggier texture. To avoid this, squeeze the shredded potatoes with a kitchen towel to remove as much water as possible. If using frozen shredded potatoes, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Another tip is to preheat the waffle iron well before adding the mixture. A properly heated waffle iron ensures an even cook and helps the edges crisp up beautifully. Cooking the waffles for about six to seven minutes allows them to develop that signature golden-brown crust while staying soft on the inside.
Best Toppings for Loaded Potato Waffles
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it pairs with a variety of toppings. Here are some delicious ideas to take your waffles to the next level:
- Soft-Cooked or Poached Eggs – A runny egg yolk adds richness and flavor that soaks beautifully into the waffle.
- Sour Cream – The tangy creaminess of sour cream balances out the saltiness of the ham and cheese.
- Salsa – A spoonful of salsa adds a bright, zesty contrast to the savory flavors.
- Chives or Green Onions – These fresh, mild onions add a pop of color and a slight crunch.
- Extra Cheese – If you love cheese, adding an extra sprinkle of cheddar on top just before serving makes these even more indulgent.
- Crispy Bacon Bits – If you want even more savory depth, crispy bacon crumbles are a fantastic addition.
How to Customize This Recipe
These waffles are incredibly adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few easy ways to customize them:
- Make Them Vegetarian – Simply leave out the ham or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Use Different Cheeses – While cheddar is a classic choice, you can switch things up with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even parmesan for a sharper bite.
- Swap the Broccoli – If you’re not a fan of broccoli, try using shredded zucchini (just be sure to squeeze out the excess moisture) or even finely chopped spinach.
- Spice Them Up – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make Them Gluten-Free – Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these waffles celiac-friendly.
What to Serve with Loaded Potato Waffles
These waffles are hearty enough to be served as a main course, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Fresh Green Salad – A simple salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the waffles.
- Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus makes this meal even more satisfying.
- Soup – A warm bowl of tomato soup or a creamy potato soup complements the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit – A side of fresh fruit like sliced apples, grapes, or berries adds a refreshing contrast to the savory waffles.
Making These Waffles Ahead of Time
If you want to save time, these waffles can easily be made ahead of time and stored for later use. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store the waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Freezing: These waffles freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat them in a toaster or oven straight from frozen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure the best possible results, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Not Draining the Potatoes Enough – Too much moisture will prevent the waffles from getting crispy. Always squeeze out excess water.
- Overloading the Waffle Iron – Adding too much batter can cause uneven cooking. Stick to about 2/3 to 1 cup of mixture per waffle.
- Opening the Waffle Iron Too Soon – Be patient! Let the waffle cook fully before checking it. Opening the lid too early can cause it to fall apart.
- Skipping the Cooking Spray – Even if your waffle iron is non-stick, a light spray of oil ensures the waffles come out easily.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato Waffles are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy potatoes, savory ham, melty cheese, and nutritious broccoli into one delicious dish. They’re easy to make, completely customizable, and perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you enjoy them for a cozy weekend brunch or as a satisfying dinner, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. With the right technique, toppings, and storage tips, you can master these waffles and make them a go-to dish for any occasion.