Crispy Waffle Iron Fries

How to make Crispy Waffle Iron Fries

Ingredients:

3 Medium Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)

1 Tablespoon Neutral Oil (plus more for greasing)

1 Tablespoon Cornstarch or Arrowroot

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika

1/2 tsp Sea Salt (or to taste)

1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Optional: Chopped Chives, Nutritional Yeast, or Shredded Vegan Cheese

This recipe was a happy little kitchen experiment gone very right. I wanted something crispy like a tater tot, but flatter, faster, and easier to cook without deep-frying. Waffle iron to the rescue! These have the golden crust of a good hash brown, the seasoning of seasoned fries, and the satisfaction of something you just created from scratch. They’re rustic, flavorful, and make such a fun appetizer, brunch side, or even a main with toppings!

And honestly? They taste even better knowing you used just a few pantry ingredients and gave your waffle iron a delicious new job. One tip I like to give, dont use a Belgian type waffle iron, use one with smaller wholes or grates.

Instructions

Peel and chop the potatoes in half or thirds, then boil in salted water for about 10–12 minutes, until almost fork-tender but not mushy. Drain and let them cool completely. This step is key—cold potatoes shred better and hold their texture.

Grate the cooled potatoes on the large holes of a box grater. Use your hands or a fork to gently separate the strands—don’t mash!

Toss the shredded potatoes with oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any extras like nutritional yeast or herbs. Stir gently to coat evenly.

Preheat and lightly oil your waffle iron. Scoop a generous handful of the potato mix into the center and gently press. Cook for 10–14 minutes or until golden and crispy. Don’t peek too soon—give it time to crisp.

Carefully remove and serve immediately with your favorite dip!

Creamy Chipotle Dipping Sauce

This dipping sauce is smoky, creamy, and adds a little kick that pairs perfectly with the crispy waffle fries.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup Vegan Mayo (or plain unsweetened yogurt)

1 tsp Dijon or Stone-Ground Mustard

1 Tablespoon Ketchup

1/2 tsp Chipotle Powder (or a splash of chipotle hot sauce)

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

Squeeze of Lime Juice

Pinch of Salt

Instructions

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Taste and adjust spice, salt, and lime to your liking. Chill for 5–10 minutes for the flavors to mingle.

Note: If you dont have a waffle iron these can be pan fried as well with a few tablespoons of oil. Just scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of potato mixture into the pan.

💬 Let’s Chat!

If you try these waffle iron fries, leave a comment and tell me how you topped them or what dipping sauce you used! I love seeing your creations. And don’t forget—if you’re loving this recipe, drop a 🌱 in the comments so I know you’re still with me!