Name: Wafflemaker Hash Browns
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487412H5M38S
Total time: PT-487412H5M38S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Olive oil cooking spray, for greasing waffle iron; 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed; 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) butter, melted; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

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Short Description

Wafflemaker Hash Browns are crispy, cheesy, and savory potato waffles layered with melty cheddar. Using a waffle iron creates golden, crunchy edges while keeping the inside fluffy—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a fun dinner twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Extra crispy texture: The waffle iron crisps hash browns evenly on both sides.
Cheesy, savory goodness: Melted cheddar and ham make every bite satisfying.
Easy preparation: Uses frozen hash browns for convenience.
Versatile meal: Works for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick snack.
Kid-friendly: Fun presentation and familiar flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil cooking spray, for greasing waffle iron
One 30-ounce bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
4 tablespoons (½ stick) butter, melted
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¾ cup grated cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat waffle iron to the regular setting and spray both sides with cooking spray.
Squeeze excess moisture from thawed hash browns and place in a large bowl.
Pour melted butter over hash browns, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and stir to coat.
For each section of the waffle iron, scoop ½ cup seasoned hash browns.
Top each portion with 2 tablespoons cheddar and a sprinkling of ham.
Add ¼ cup hash browns on top to cover.
Close waffle iron and cook for about 15 minutes on the regular setting, until crispy and golden.
Repeat with remaining hash browns, cheese.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 6–8 (depending on waffle iron size)
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~15 minutes per batch
Total time: ~25–40 minutes (based on number of batches)

Variations

Veggie option: Replace ham with sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
Bacon lovers: Use crumbled cooked bacon instead of ham.
Breakfast stack: Top finished hash browns with a fried egg.
Herb twist: Mix fresh parsley, chives, or dill into the hash browns.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a toaster oven or waffle iron for crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze cooked hash brown waffles in a single layer, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in toaster oven or waffle iron.

FAQs

Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead Of Frozen?

Yes—grate them, then rinse and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using.

Can I Make These Without Ham?

Absolutely—skip it or replace with your favorite protein or veggies.

What Type Of Cheese Works Best?

Cheddar melts well, but Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack are also great choices.

Do I Need To Grease The Waffle Iron?

Yes—spraying with cooking spray prevents sticking and helps crisp the edges.

Can I Make Them Ahead?

Yes—cook, cool, and refrigerate or freeze; reheat when ready to serve.

How Do I Keep Them Crispy After Cooking?

Place on a wire rack in a warm oven until serving.

Can I Add Eggs To The Mixture?

Yes—beaten eggs can help bind the hash browns for a firmer texture.

What If My Waffle Iron Doesn’t Have Multiple Sections?

Cook one large hash brown waffle at a time and cut into portions.

Are These Gluten-Free?

Yes—just ensure your ham and cheese are gluten-free.

Can I Use Oil Instead Of Butter?

Yes, but butter adds a richer flavor and helps with browning.

Conclusion

Wafflemaker Hash Browns are an easy, fun way to turn classic breakfast potatoes into crispy, cheesy waffle-shaped treats. With ham, cheddar, and a golden crunch, they’re perfect on their own or as part of a hearty breakfast plate.