Leftover Mashed Potato Waffle Melts (Print View)

Golden waffles fill with gooey cheese and savory filling—a delicious twist using leftover mashed potatoes.

# Components:

→ 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 ground black pepper

→ Filling

09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 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 parsley or chives, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease the plates.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, scallions (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until a cohesive, sticky dough forms.
03 - Divide the potato mixture evenly into 4 portions. Form each into a ball and gently flatten to create a patty shape.
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 brown and crisp along the edges. Repeat with the remaining portions.
05 - After all waffles are cooked, arrange shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese and bacon or ham (if using) on half of the waffles. Top each with a second waffle to form a sandwich.
06 - Return the assembled waffle melts to the waffle iron or oven for 2 to 3 minutes, until cheese is thoroughly melted. Serve immediately topped with sour cream and fresh herbs.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This is your shortcut to transforming leftovers into something craveable and golden, like pizza and breakfast had a delicious baby.
  • Minimal effort, yet the first bite gets everyone talking, no matter how quietly they woke up.
02 -
  • If you skimp on the oil when prepping the iron, the waffles stubbornly stick and likely break—grease is non-negotiable here.
  • Swapping in smoked paprika or sharp cheeses turned out to be a revelation, waking up the flavors more than I expected.
03 -
  • Letting the waffles rest for 30 seconds before removing makes them less likely to tear from the iron.
  • Combine a little smoked gouda and chives for a next-level melt that gets rave reviews every time.
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