Smashed Potato Parmesan Waffle Bake

Discover the delicious Smashed Potato Parmesan Waffle Bake, where comfort food meets a creative twist! This unique dish features crispy, golden waffles filled with creamy mashed potatoes and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for brunch, family dinners, or potlucks, it’s sure to impress both kids and adults. Customizable with optional toppings like chives and sour cream, this bake offers delightful textures and flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

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Ingredients

2 lbs baby potatoes

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tbsp vinegar)

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

½ cup chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)

Instructions

Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, place the baby potatoes and cover them with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes or until they are easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly before handling.

Preheat the Waffle Maker: Heat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If necessary, lightly coat the plates with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Smash the Potatoes: Once the boiled potatoes have cooled enough to touch, gently smash them with a fork or a potato masher. Aim to leave some small chunks for added texture in the final dish.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly blended.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, use a whisk to combine the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until well incorporated.

Incorporate the Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Carefully fold in the smashed potatoes and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Cook the Waffles: Spoon an appropriate amount of the potato mixture into your preheated waffle maker (approximately ½ to ¾ cup, depending on your waffle maker's size). Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.

Layer the Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, arrange the cooked waffles side by side. Evenly sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the layered waffles.

Bake Until Bubbly: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling delightfully.

Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve the Smashed Potato Parmesan Waffle Bake warm, accompanied by a generous dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve individual portions on plates with a sprinkle of chives on top and an artful drizzle of sour cream or Greek yogurt next to the bake.