Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chaffles are low in carbohydrates and high in protein. They are quick to prepare and require minimal ingredients. The texture is crispy on the outside and tender inside. They can be eaten alone or used as sandwich bread. They are ideal for keto or low-carb lifestyles.
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Getting Crunchy Ham Cheese Chaffles: The Ultimate Low-Carb Breakfast Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 chaffles
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Getting Crunchy Ham Cheese Chaffles are crispy, low-carb waffle-style sandwiches made with melted cheese, eggs, and savory ham for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped ham
- 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or butter for waffle iron
Instructions
- Preheat waffle iron and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg until well beaten.
- Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, chopped ham, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Spoon half of the mixture onto the waffle iron and spread slightly.
- Close lid and cook for 3–5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove carefully and repeat with remaining batter.
- Let cool slightly to crisp up further before serving.
Notes
- Cook slightly longer for extra crunch.
- Serve with mustard or sugar-free syrup.
- Best enjoyed fresh and hot.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Eggs
Eggs form the structural base of the chaffle, providing protein and binding the ingredients together.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella melts smoothly and creates the signature crispy texture when cooked in the waffle maker.
Diced Ham
Adds savory flavor, protein, and a slightly smoky note.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Enhances richness and provides a sharper cheese flavor.
Almond Flour (Optional)
Adds slight structure and helps create a more bread-like texture.
Baking Powder
Helps the chaffles rise slightly and improves texture.
Salt
Balances and enhances the savory flavors.
Black Pepper
Adds mild heat and seasoning depth.
Garlic Powder (Optional)
Provides additional savory flavor.
Directions
Preheat your waffle maker and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. Stir in shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, diced ham, almond flour if using, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until evenly combined.
Spoon a portion of the mixture into the center of the preheated waffle maker. Spread slightly to ensure even coverage but avoid overfilling.
Close the waffle maker and cook for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chaffle is golden brown and crisp. Cooking times may vary depending on your appliance.
Carefully remove the chaffle and allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack to maintain crispness. Repeat with remaining batter. Serve warm as is, or use two chaffles to create a breakfast sandwich.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings, with one mini blooming onion per serving. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 12 minutes, making the total time around 27 minutes.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 small chaffles (serves 2 people).
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store cooled chaffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may soften the texture.
Variations and Customizations
These chaffles are incredibly versatile. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. I once mixed in chopped green onions, which added freshness and subtle sharpness.
To make them even crispier, sprinkle a small layer of cheese directly onto the waffle iron before adding the batter. This creates a golden cheese crust. You can also substitute ham with cooked bacon, turkey, or even shredded chicken for variety.
For a more bread-like consistency, increase the almond flour slightly. If you prefer dairy-free options, experiment with dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives, though the texture may vary.
These chaffles can also serve as sandwich buns. Add scrambled eggs, avocado, or extra ham between two chaffles for a hearty breakfast sandwich. Their flexibility makes them perfect for adapting to personal taste and dietary needs.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (based on 2 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 4 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 890 mg |
These chaffles are low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making them suitable for ketogenic and low-carb diets.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overfill
Overfilling the waffle maker can cause uneven cooking.
Let Them Cool Slightly
Cooling on a wire rack helps maintain crispness.
Use Full-Fat Cheese
Full-fat cheese melts better and produces a crispier texture.
Grease the Waffle Maker Well
This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Experiment with Seasonings
Try Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for additional flavor.
FAQs
What is a chaffle?
A chaffle is a waffle made primarily from cheese and eggs, often used as a low-carb bread substitute.
Can I freeze chaffles?
Yes, freeze in a single layer and reheat in a toaster for best results.
Why are my chaffles soggy?
They may need longer cooking time or cooling on a wire rack.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, mozzarella works best for structure, but cheddar, Colby, or pepper jack can be added for flavor.
Are chaffles gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are gluten-free.
Can I make them without almond flour?
Yes, almond flour is optional and mainly improves texture.
Conclusion
Getting Crunchy Ham Cheese Chaffles is a simple, satisfying way to enjoy a low-carb breakfast without sacrificing flavor or texture. Crispy on the outside and packed with savory goodness inside, these chaffles are quick to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a sandwich, they deliver convenience and bold flavor in every bite.
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