Crispy & Delicious Leftover Mashed Potato Waffles: The Ultimate Repurpose Recipe

Are you staring at a container of leftover mashed potatoes, wondering how to give them a delicious second life? Look no further! This mashed potato waffles recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also astonishingly tasty. It’s the perfect solution for transforming humble leftovers into a meal that feels entirely new and exciting. Forget the microwave – these savory waffles are about to become your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes, utilizing ingredients you likely already have on hand!

This recipe has been updated from the original posted November 27, 2019, with enhanced tips, more substitutions, and detailed instructions to help you create the perfect savory waffle every time.

Why Mashed Potato Waffles Are a Game Changer

The concept of repurposing leftovers often conjures images of uninspired reheated meals. But what if your “leftovers” could be completely reinvented into something utterly different and delightful? That’s the magic of mashed potato waffles! I, for one, am a huge proponent of reducing food waste, and this recipe is a testament to culinary creativity. It’s not just about avoiding waste; it’s about unlocking new flavor experiences from familiar ingredients.

These savory waffles offer a fantastic alternative to traditional breakfast fare, but they’re versatile enough to be served for lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty snack. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with savory potato goodness. Plus, they’re highly customizable, allowing you to incorporate other leftover ingredients, making each batch a unique culinary adventure. You’ll never think of mashed potatoes the same way again!

No Leftovers? No Problem!

While this recipe shines as a clever way to use up mashed potatoes from a holiday feast or a family dinner, don’t feel limited to only making them the day after. I’ve often intentionally made extra mashed potatoes just to have them for these waffles. For a batch specifically designed for waffles, I recommend using my recipe for vegan mashed potatoes as a guide, boiling up a mix of potatoes, cauliflower, and parsnips with some garlic, then mashing them to the perfect consistency. This root vegetable blend creates a wonderfully flavorful and textured base for the waffles, proving that these savory delights are worth making even from scratch.

Ingredients and Creative Substitutions for Your Savory Waffles

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Think of your mashed potatoes as a blank canvas, ready to be adorned with whatever flavors and textures you desire. Below are the core components and plenty of ideas for making these waffles truly your own:

• Egg (or Vegan Replacement): The egg acts as a crucial binding agent, holding your waffle batter together. If you’re opting for a vegan version, a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a “chia egg” (same ratio with ground chia seeds) works perfectly. Ensure the flax or chia seeds are finely ground to create the necessary gel-like consistency. If your batter feels a bit loose, don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle more of ground flax or chia.
• Fresh Herbs: This is where you can truly infuse personality into your waffles. If it’s post-Thanksgiving, utilize those leftover sprigs of sage, thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a truly autumnal flavor profile. For a brighter, fresher taste, dill or chives are excellent choices. Thinking of a Mexican-themed topping bar? Fresh cilantro is a must-add to the batter. The possibilities are endless, so use what you have and what you love!
• Onions: I love the mild, fresh bite of green onions (scallions), but feel free to experiment with other types. Finely chopped leeks add a delicate sweetness, while red onion offers a sharper, more vibrant flavor. Even caramelized yellow or sweet onions can provide a deep, rich flavor boost within the waffle batter.
• Beans or Lentils: For an extra boost of protein and fiber, consider folding cooked beans or lentils directly into your waffle batter. Black beans, pinto beans, or small green lentils would integrate beautifully, adding substance and earthy notes. Alternatively, sprinkle them generously on top as part of your topping spread.
• Grains: Beyond potatoes, what other cooked grains are lingering in your fridge? Cooked quinoa, rice, or even small pasta shapes can be gently incorporated into the batter, adding texture and making your waffles even more substantial. Just ensure they are not too wet.
• Stuffing: YES! This is a revelation. If you’ve never had leftover stuffing waffles, prepare to have your mind blown. This recipe is the perfect vehicle for repurposing stuffing. Whether it’s a traditional bread stuffing or my personal favorite gluten-free cornbread stuffing, simply combine it with an egg and your favorite spices, and waffle away. They are absolutely DEE-lish!
• Veggies: Your refrigerator is a treasure trove of potential waffle add-ins. Almost any cooked or finely chopped raw vegetable can be mixed into the batter. Think finely diced broccoli, bell peppers (red, yellow, or green for a pop of color), sautéed mushrooms, shredded Brussels sprouts, or even finely chopped cabbage. The sky’s the limit for boosting nutrition and flavor!

How to Make Savory Mashed Potato Waffles: Step-by-Step

Making these savory waffles is incredibly straightforward, often taking less than 15 minutes from prep to plate. The key is in the ratio and proper waffle iron technique. Let’s get cooking!

First, consider your yield: for every one cup of mashed potatoes (or mashed cauliflower, mashed parsnips, or even mashed acorn squash – truly, use what you have leftover!), you’ll need one egg. And yes, a VEGAN flax egg or chia egg works like a charm for binding!

A super important next step, often overlooked: make sure to adequately preheat your waffle iron. A hot waffle iron is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy exterior and preventing sticking. If you’re using a vegan egg replacement, this is also a good opportunity for it to finish gelling and thicken the mixture.

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