There’s something incredibly satisfying about waking up to the comforting aroma of golden hash browns and melty cheese crisping to perfection. This recipe for Easy Cheesy Hash Brown Waffles in the Waffle Maker was born out of a weekend experiment in my kitchen. I had leftover shredded potatoes, a bit of shredded cheese, and a strong craving for something savory, crunchy, and quick. I figured—why not press everything into a waffle iron and see what happens? What came out was a masterpiece: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, packed with flavor and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner with a side of eggs or salad.
What I love about this recipe is how unbelievably simple it is. With just a few pantry staples, a hot waffle maker, and less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, you don’t need to be a seasoned cook to master it—this is truly foolproof and fun. The combination of shredded potatoes, eggs, cheese, and your choice of add-ins makes this dish endlessly versatile.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers maximum crunch and flavor with minimum fuss. It’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Each bite has a crispy edge and a cheesy, savory middle that melts in your mouth. And the best part? You don’t need to stand over a skillet—just press and cook.
If you’re someone who loves quick meals but refuses to compromise on flavor or texture, this hash brown waffle recipe will become your new go-to.
Versatile
This dish works with any type of cheese you have on hand—cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack. You can fold in vegetables like diced bell peppers, green onions, or even leftover cooked chicken or turkey bacon for added protein. It’s a great base recipe to build from and adapt to what’s in your fridge.
Affordable
Everything about this recipe is budget-friendly. Potatoes, eggs, and cheese are kitchen staples for many of us, and this recipe turns them into something much more exciting than their individual parts. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something special.
Ingredients for the Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
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3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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Non-stick spray or oil for greasing the waffle maker
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Optional add-ins: diced green onions, chopped turkey bacon, chopped cooked chicken, or bell peppers
How to Prepare This Recipe
Making these Easy Cheesy Hash Brown Waffles is a breeze, and it’s one of the reasons I return to this recipe again and again. It’s the kind of dish you can throw together in minutes without making a mess or using too many pans. Just one bowl, a waffle maker, and a handful of basic ingredients, and you’re good to go. Let me walk you through every step so you can get that perfect crispy-cheesy result.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Hash Browns
Start with thawed hash browns. If you’re using frozen ones, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is essential for achieving a crisp exterior. The drier your hash browns, the better they will crisp in the waffle maker.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, and eggs. Add the flour to help bind the mixture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until fully incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold together easily.
Step 3: Preheat the Waffle Maker
While your mixture sits for a minute, preheat your waffle maker on medium to high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before you add the hash brown mixture. This will help form that golden crust right away.
Step 4: Grease the Waffle Plates
Spray the top and bottom plates of the waffle maker with non-stick spray or lightly brush with oil. Don’t skip this step—it’s key to preventing the mixture from sticking and ensures your waffles release cleanly once cooked.
Step 5: Add the Mixture to the Waffle Maker
Scoop about ½ to ¾ cup of the hash brown mixture into the center of the waffle maker. Spread it slightly toward the edges but don’t overfill. Gently press the lid down. Some steam will escape—that’s normal.
Step 6: Cook Until Golden and Crisp
Let the hash brown waffles cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are deep golden brown and crispy. The cooking time will vary depending on your waffle maker, so check around the 5-minute mark. Avoid opening the waffle maker too early, or they might break apart.
Step 7: Remove and Serve
Once done, carefully lift the lid and remove the waffle using a silicone spatula or tongs. Repeat with the remaining mixture, greasing the plates each time.
Quick and Easy
This entire recipe—from prep to plate—can be completed in under 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic option for weekdays when time is limited or weekends when you want to relax with a hearty meal. You don’t even need fancy equipment—just a regular waffle maker and one bowl.
Customizable
What makes this recipe stand out is how easily you can make it your own. Want to add more protein? Toss in chopped chicken ham or turkey bacon. Prefer it vegetarian? Add finely diced mushrooms or spinach. Like a little heat? A pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeños will do the trick.
Even the cheese is flexible—swap cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey texture, or try gouda for a smoky twist. You can also stir in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten things up.
Popular With Many People
Every time I serve these cheesy hash brown waffles, they disappear fast. Kids love them for the crispy texture and cheesy flavor. Adults appreciate how hearty and satisfying they are. I’ve brought these to brunches and potlucks, and they’re always one of the first dishes to be finished.
They also make a great side for eggs, grilled chicken, or salad, and leftovers reheat beautifully in a toaster oven or skillet. This is one of those recipes that surprises people with how tasty and practical it is.
PrintEasy Cheesy Hash Brown Waffles in the Waffle Maker
This Easy Cheesy Hash Brown Waffle recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crispy, cheesy breakfast or snack. Using a waffle maker streamlines cooking and produces perfectly golden hash browns every time. It’s versatile, affordable, and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or casual meals.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Non-stick spray or oil for greasing
- Optional add-ins: diced green onions, chopped turkey bacon, chopped cooked chicken, or bell peppers
Instructions
- Thaw and drain frozen hash browns thoroughly; pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, combine hash browns, shredded cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Preheat waffle maker to medium-high heat.
- Grease waffle maker plates with non-stick spray or oil.
- Scoop ½ to ¾ cup of the mixture into the waffle maker and spread slightly. Close the lid gently.
- Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until waffles are golden brown and crispy. Avoid opening early to prevent breaking.
- Carefully remove waffles using a silicone spatula or tongs. Repeat with remaining mixture.
Notes
Ensure hash browns are well-drained to avoid soggy waffles.
Adjust seasoning to taste or add herbs and spices for variation.
Experiment with different cheeses and add-ins for customized flavor.
Greasing the waffle maker before each batch prevents sticking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Just make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel before mixing. This step is crucial to get crispy waffles.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can mix the ingredients and store the batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before cooking.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic for its sharp flavor and good melting quality, but mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack also work well. Use whatever you prefer or have on hand.
How do I store leftover hash brown waffles?
Cool them completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to keep them crispy.
Can I freeze the waffles?
Yes! Freeze cooked waffles on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven for best results.