Description
Imagine pulling apart a stack of golden, crispy waffles made from mashed potatoes and bacon, with a gooey, melty cheddar cheese topping that stretches into an epic cheese lava pull. Sounds like comfort food heaven, right? That’s exactly what Bacon Mashed Potato Waffle Stacks with Epic Cheese Lava Pull delivers! This fun, indulgent recipe serves 4-6 and transforms leftover mashed potatoes into a savory, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for brunch, dinner, or a creative appetizer
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a savory, cheesy delight. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:
- Mashed Potatoes (4 cups): The creamy, starchy base.
- Why it matters: Provides the soft, comforting texture and binds the waffle batter.
- Substitution: Use leftover mashed potatoes (with butter or cream) or make fresh with russet or Yukon gold potatoes.
- Cooked and Crumbled Bacon (1 cup): Adds smoky, savory crunch.
- Why it matters: Brings bold flavor and texture contrast.
- Substitution: Use turkey bacon, pancetta, or vegetarian bacon for a meat-free option.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided): Adds flavor and the epic cheese pull.
- Why it matters: Melts into the waffles and creates a gooey topping.
- Substitution: Use mozzarella for a stretchier pull, Monterey Jack, or dairy-free cheese.
- Milk (1 cup): Thins the batter for waffle consistency.
- Why it matters: Ensures a smooth, pourable batter without diluting flavor.
- Substitution: Use buttermilk for tang or non-dairy milk for dairy-free.
- Eggs (2): Bind the batter and add structure.
- Why it matters: Help the waffles hold their shape and crisp up.
- Substitution: Use flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water) for vegan.
- Flour (2 cups): Provides structure for waffles.
- Why it matters: Turns mashed potatoes into a sturdy, waffle-able batter.
- Substitution: Use gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour (may alter texture).
- Baking Powder (2 tsp): Helps waffles rise and crisp.
- Why it matters: Ensures a light, crispy exterior.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season the batter.
- Why it matters: Enhance the savory flavors of bacon and cheese.
- Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking to the waffle iron.
- Why it matters: Ensures easy release and perfect waffle shapes.
- Substitution: Use a brush with melted butter or oil.
Pro Tip: Use cold or room-temperature mashed potatoes for easier mixing, and shred your own cheddar for better melting. Cook bacon until crispy for maximum flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Iron:
- Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat (or follow manufacturer instructions).
- Lightly coat with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Tip: Ensure the iron is fully heated for crispy waffles.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups mashed potatoes, 1 cup crumbled bacon, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup milk, 2 eggs, 2 cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix well with a spoon or spatula until fully incorporated and smooth (batter will be thick but spreadable).
- Tip: If batter is too thick, add 1-2 tbsp more milk; if too thin, add 1 tbsp flour.
- Cook the Waffles:
- Spray the preheated waffle iron with cooking spray.
- Spoon about 1/2 cup of batter (adjust based on your waffle iron size) onto the center of the iron, spreading slightly to form an even layer.
- Close the iron and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove waffles and keep warm; repeat with remaining batter.
- Tip: Don’t overfill the iron to avoid overflow; check for doneness by peeking after 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Stacks:
- Stack 2-3 waffles per serving (depending on size and preference).
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each stack while hot, allowing it to melt into a gooey layer.
- Tip: For an extra melty cheese pull, pop stacks under a broiler for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for the best cheese lava pull effect, pulling stacks apart to reveal the stretchy cheese.
- Health Benefit: Potatoes provide potassium and fiber, and cheese offers calcium, but this rich dish is a savory treat to enjoy sparingly!