Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles Recipe

Introduction

Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles combine the crispy, savory flavors of hashbrowns, turkey bacon, and melty cheese, all pressed into a waffle for the perfect breakfast or brunch treat. The golden exterior offers a satisfying crunch, while the inside remains tender and filled with deliciously savory ingredients. These waffles make an ideal way to enjoy a hearty, filling meal that’s also easy to prepare.

Perfect for lazy mornings, weekend brunches, or even a quick dinner, these waffles take the humble hashbrown to a new level. Whether you’re a fan of crispy bacon or a lover of cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to make these loaded waffles at home, as well as tips for making the perfect version every time.

Why You’ll Love Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles

• Hearty and Filling: With crispy hashbrowns, savory turkey bacon, and gooey cheese, these waffles are a satisfying meal that will keep you full all morning or afternoon.
• Crispy, Crunchy Exterior: The waffle maker crisps up the hashbrowns, giving the waffles a golden, crispy crust that perfectly complements the tender interior.
• Savory and Flavorful: The combination of turkey bacon, cheese, and hashbrowns makes these waffles savory, hearty, and delicious, ideal for breakfast or brunch.
• Easy and Quick: With just a few simple ingredients, these waffles are incredibly easy to make, especially if you already have leftover hashbrowns or cooked bacon on hand.
• Versatile: Customize these waffles with your favorite ingredients, like adding vegetables, changing the cheese, or even experimenting with different types of meat. These waffles are endlessly adaptable.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 waffles (depending on waffle maker size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per waffle, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 15-18g
• Carbohydrates: 22-25g
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1-3g

Ingredients

For the Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles:

• 2 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed and drained
• 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, for garnish

Special Equipment

Making Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles doesn’t require a lot of specialized equipment, but a few key tools will ensure the best results:

1. Waffle Maker: A good quality waffle maker is crucial to getting a crispy, golden texture on your hashbrown waffles. Opt for one with non-stick plates for easy removal of the waffles.
2. Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a large bowl to combine the ingredients for the waffles, such as the thawed hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, and spices.
3. Cooking Spray or Brush: Lightly spray the waffle maker with non-stick cooking spray or brush with oil to ensure the waffles don’t stick during cooking.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will help achieve the best balance of ingredients.
5. Fork or Spatula: To help transfer the waffles from the waffle maker to a plate and to break them apart if necessary.
6. Tongs: If you want to remove the turkey bacon from the pan without getting too messy, tongs are very helpful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cooking the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess fat. When cooled, crumble the turkey bacon into small pieces.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained hashbrowns, crumbled turkey bacon, and shredded cheese. These are the core ingredients for the waffles, so make sure they’re evenly distributed in the bowl.

2. Add the Wet Ingredients and Seasoning

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Add the egg mixture to the hashbrown mixture, along with the olive oil (or melted butter). Stir to combine, making sure that the hashbrowns are fully coated in the egg mixture.

Next, add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. These spices will enhance the flavor of the waffles, giving them an extra depth of savory goodness.

3. Preheat the Waffle Maker

While the waffle mixture sits for a moment, preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease the plates with cooking spray or brush them with oil to prevent sticking. The waffle maker should be fully heated before you add the mixture.

4. Load the Waffle Maker

Once the waffle maker is preheated, spoon an even layer of the hashbrown mixture onto the plates. The amount you use will depend on the size of your waffle maker, but aim for about ¾ to 1 cup of the mixture per waffle. Press the lid of the waffle maker down firmly to ensure that the waffles cook evenly and achieve the crispy texture.

5. Cook the Waffles

Cook the waffles for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of waffle maker you use, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Check to ensure the waffles are crispy, as this will ensure the best texture.

6. Remove and Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the waffles from the waffle maker using a fork or spatula. Place them on a plate and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Tips for Perfect Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles

• Thaw the Hashbrowns Properly: Make sure to thaw the frozen hashbrowns and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the mixture. This helps achieve the crispiness you’re looking for.
• Customize with Your Favorite Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
• Add Extra Veggies: If you want to add more vegetables to your waffles, consider mixing in finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cook the Bacon in Advance: You can prepare the turkey bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the waffles. This saves time on busy mornings.
• Don’t Overfill the Waffle Maker: Be careful not to overload the waffle maker with too much mixture. Overfilling can result in uneven cooking and a mess. It’s better to make multiple smaller waffles if needed.
• Serve with Toppings: These waffles can be served with additional toppings such as sour cream, salsa, or even a fried egg on top for an extra hearty meal.

Variations of Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a vegetarian twist on these loaded waffles.
• Spicy Version: Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick. Pepper jack cheese can also be used for extra heat.
• Southwest-Inspired: Mix in black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin for a southwestern flair. Top with avocado slices and cilantro for a fresh, flavorful dish.
• Breakfast Sausage Version: Swap out the turkey bacon for cooked breakfast sausage for a different protein option. You could even use sausage links, cut into small pieces.

Storage and Shelf Life

Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later if necessary. Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, place the waffles in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up. You can also reheat them in a waffle maker for a couple of minutes.

For longer storage, these waffles can be frozen. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen waffles can last 1-2 months. To reheat, simply toast them in a toaster or oven until crispy.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles

Pair these waffles with complementary sides to complete your meal:

• Fresh Fruit: A fruit salad with berries, orange slices, or melon pairs wonderfully with the savory waffles, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Fried or Poached Eggs: Add a fried or poached egg on top of the waffle for a traditional breakfast touch and extra protein.
• Salsa and Sour Cream: A side of salsa and sour cream works well for dipping, adding a zesty flavor that complements the waffles.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds balance to the richness of the waffles and makes for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Turkey-Bacon and Cheese Loaded Hashbrown Waffles are the perfect savory breakfast or brunch dish, combining crispy hashbrowns, flavorful turkey bacon, and melty cheese all in one waffle. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these waffles are sure to satisfy your hunger and taste buds. Easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for any meal, these loaded waffles will become a go-to recipe for your next breakfast or brunch gathering.