Tasty Bacon and Cheese Waffles

This golden, crunchy hashbrown waffle turns basic morning staples into a standout brunch centerpiece that's both cozy and extraordinary. Every waffle combines favorite breakfast elements—crunchy potatoes, bacon bits, and gooey cheese—all squeezed into one handy, tasty package.

I whipped up these packed hashbrown waffles during a friendly Sunday gathering, and they've turned into our must-have weekend treat. The waffle maker gives you those super crunchy edges everyone grabs first in regular hashbrowns.

What You'll Need

• Store-bought shredded hash browns: they cut down your prep work and create just the right texture
• Bacon pieces: spread smoky flavor through each mouthful
• Grated cheese: makes little melty spots and helps everything stick together
• Eggs: work as the key glue keeping all ingredients combined
• Salt and pepper: needed to boost the potato taste
• Cooking spray: stops sticking and helps get that brown outer layer

How To Make It

Mix Everything:

Stir the shredded potatoes, bacon pieces, cheese, and whisked eggs in a big bowl until well mixed. The eggs should wrap around all ingredients, helping everything stick when it cooks. Add a few shakes of salt and pepper for taste.

Get the Waffle Maker Hot:

Turn your waffle iron to medium high and let it warm up completely. This step can't be skipped if you want that perfect crunchy outside. The iron must be hot enough to make an instant crust when the potato mix touches it.

Fill the Waffle Iron:

Spray both top and bottom plates well with cooking spray. This matters a lot since starchy potatoes tend to stick. Put about 1 cup of the hashbrown mix in the middle of the waffle iron, then use a spatula to push it out to the edges.

Cook Until Golden:

Push the lid down firmly and let it cook for 6 to 8 minutes without looking. The longer cooking time makes potatoes crispy outside while getting fully cooked inside. You'll know they're done when steam stops coming from the sides of the waffle maker.

Eat Right Away:

Lift out the finished waffle carefully using a fork or rubber tongs so you don't scratch your waffle iron. The waffle should look brown and stay in one piece. Keep cooking the leftover mixture in batches.

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The bacon bits really make this dish special. While you can totally cook and break up your own bacon, I've learned that good store-bought bacon bits save tons of time without losing flavor. During holiday times, I sometimes swap half the bacon for chopped ham to change things up.

Customization Ideas

These waffles can be changed up in so many ways based on what you like. Try mixing in small chopped bell peppers and onions for extra taste and goodness. For something hot, throw in some jalapeños and use pepper jack instead of regular cheese. If you don't eat meat, just skip the bacon and add more veggies like mushrooms or spinach.

What To Put On Top

Though these waffles taste great plain, they really shine when you add toppings. Try them with a spoonful of sour cream and green onions for a loaded potato feel. For breakfast style, add a fried egg and some hot sauce. My kids love them topped with avocado and everything bagel seasoning for a fancy brunch vibe.

Keeping And Warming Up

These hashbrown waffles freeze really well, so they're perfect for planning meals ahead. Let them cool all the way, then put them in a single row on a baking sheet to freeze before moving to a freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking. To warm up, put them in a toaster or oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until hot and crispy again. Don't use the microwave or they'll get mushy.

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Common Questions

→ How do I prevent waffles from sticking to the waffle iron?

Give your waffle iron a good coating of non-stick spray before you add your mixture.

→ Can I use frozen hash browns instead of refrigerated ones?

Sure, but make sure they're fully thawed and dabbed dry to get rid of extra moisture.

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Any shredded cheese works great. Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix based on what you like.

→ Can I add vegetables to the waffle mixture?

You bet! Tiny chopped veggies like onions, peppers, or even spinach can go right in for extra crunch and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover waffles?

Put any leftover waffles in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days. When you want them crispy again, pop them in your toaster or oven.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

For sure! You can mix everything up early and keep it in the fridge. Then just cook fresh waffles when you're ready to eat.