Leftover Mashed Potato Waffle Melts (Printable version)

Crispy, cheesy waffles made from mashed potatoes with melty cheese and optional savory fillings.

# What You Need:

→ Mashed Potato Base

01 - 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
02 - 1 large egg
03 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Filling

09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
10 - 4 to 6 slices cooked bacon or ham (optional)
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)

→ For Serving

12 - Sour cream, for garnish
13 - Chopped herbs (parsley or chives), for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s directions and lightly grease the plates.
02 - In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, cheddar cheese, flour, scallions if using, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
03 - Divide the mixture into four equal parts. Shape each into a ball and flatten it slightly.
04 - Place one portion in the center of the preheated waffle iron, close, and cook 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Repeat for all portions.
05 - On half the waffles, layer shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese and optional bacon or ham. Top with the remaining waffles to form melts and return to the waffle iron or oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
06 - Serve the waffle melts immediately, garnished with sour cream and chopped herbs.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Transforming mashed potatoes into waffles is the trick you’ll want to brag about to friends who think leftovers are boring.
  • These melts satisfy literally any craving: cheesy, crispy, and endlessly customizable based on what you have in your fridge.
02 -
  • If you skip greasing the waffle iron, you’ll be scraping potatoes off for ages—so don’t forget.
  • Letting the waffles sit a minute before lifting the lid lets the crispy edges set fully for that perfect crunch.
03 -
  • Let your mashed potatoes come to room temperature before mixing—it blends much easier and fries up crispier.
  • A sprinkle of smoked paprika or minced jalapeño in the mix can totally transform the flavor into something special.
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