Potato hash browns with cheese and ham

Ingredients:

• 950 g frozen grated potatoes for hash browns
• 55 g melted butter
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 cups chopped ham
• 1 tbsp. freshly grated cheddar
• Ketchup for serving
• Special equipment: waffle iron

Preparation:

1. Defrost the potatoes at room temperature for about 3 hours, turning the package occasionally. You can also defrost them in the refrigerator overnight. Once the potatoes are defrosted, preheat the waffle iron to medium-low heat.
2. Place half the potatoes in the middle of a stack of three or four paper towels. Wrap them and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Place the potatoes in a large bowl. Repeat with the remaining potatoes.
3. Drizzle with butter, then add pepper and toss. Spray the waffle iron with cooking spray, then add 1/2 cup of the potato mixture to each well. The potatoes will immediately begin to sizzle.
4. Sprinkle the sliced ​​ham evenly over the potatoes, then add the cheese (see Note). Top with about 1/4 cup of potatoes.
   
   Note
   
   Alternatively, add diced onion and green bell pepper along with the ham and cheese.
5. Close the lid and cook the potato waffles! Cooking time will vary depending on the temperature of your waffle iron and the moisture content of the potatoes. Lift the lid and check the waffles occasionally to make sure they're not burning. The cheese should be melted and the waffles should be deep golden and crispy. Remove the waffles with a spatula. Serve with ketchup and enjoy immediately!