Imagine biting into a golden, crispy waffle that bursts with the savory flavors of ham and gooey cheddar cheese, all nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked hash browns. Welcome to the delightful world of Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Waffles! This mouthwatering dish is not just your average breakfast; it's a game-changer that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this American classic that’s perfect for brunch or a cozy weeknight dinner. Ready to elevate your waffle game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your taste buds sing!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen hash browns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly grease the cooking surfaces with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, thaw the frozen hash browns by letting them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. Use a paper towel to gently pat the hash browns dry, removing excess moisture to ensure crispy waffles.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham to the hash browns, then pour the egg mixture over the ingredients. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all components.
- Scoop approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the hash brown mixture into the center of the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Carefully remove the waffle using a fork or silicone spatula, and place on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with additional shredded cheese, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips
- Crispy Perfection: To achieve the crispiest waffles, make sure to pat the thawed hash browns dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture is key to preventing sogginess.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Swap out the ham for bacon or sausage, or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
- Monitor the Cooking Time: Waffle irons can vary, so keep an eye on your waffles as they cook. Aim for a golden-brown color for the perfect texture.
- Serving Suggestions: These waffles are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further by serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick.
- Make Ahead: If you’re prepping for a crowd, you can make the mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook, ensuring a quick and easy breakfast or brunch option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 226kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 128mg
