Leftover Mashed Potato Waffle Melts (Print Version)

Transform mashed potatoes into cheesy, golden waffle melts perfect for breakfast or a filling snack.

# What You’ll 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 such as parsley or chives, for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer's guidelines and lightly grease with nonstick spray or oil.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, scallions if using, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until a cohesive, sticky dough forms.
03 - Divide the mixture evenly into 4 portions. Shape each into a ball using your hands, then gently flatten them.
04 - Place one portion in the center of the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining portions.
05 - Once all waffles are cooked, arrange mozzarella or Swiss cheese and bacon or ham slices (if using) on half the waffles. Cover with remaining waffles to form a sandwich.
06 - Return assembled melts to the waffle iron or place in an oven at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
07 - Serve immediately, garnished with sour cream and fresh chopped herbs.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • The crispy shell hides the gooey, cheesy middle—like a brunch secret you can keep or share.
  • You won’t believe mashed potatoes could end up tasting this fun and irresistible.
02 -
  • If you forget to oil the waffle iron, the potato waffles will stubbornly cling to the plates—learned the hard way.
  • Chilling your mashed potatoes overnight makes them hold together instead of falling apart.
03 -
  • Use cold mashed potatoes for the best structure; room temp mash makes the mixture too sticky.
  • A sprinkle of smoked paprika into the dough gives it an irresistible depth—even guests will ask what your secret is.
Go Back