Looking for a crispy, savory treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack? These Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with everyone. With a golden brown exterior and cheesy, sausage-filled center, these bites are both satisfying and simple to make.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded hashbrowns (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- Oil for frying (if pan-frying)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven or Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. If pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. - Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine shredded hashbrowns, crumbled sausage, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined. - Add Egg and Breadcrumbs
Stir in the beaten egg and breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together when shaped into balls. - Form Bites
Shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet if baking. - Bake or Fry
- To Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- To Fry: Fry in heated oil for 3-4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips:
- Crispier Texture: To get an extra crispy texture, roll the bites in breadcrumbs before baking or frying.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Make Ahead: You can make the mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to a day, shaping and cooking when ready.
- Freezing: These bites freeze well. After forming, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs:
Can I freeze these bites for later?
Yes, after shaping the bites, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Store in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Bake or fry directly from frozen, just extend the cooking time slightly.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), spray the bites with a little oil, and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
What can I serve these bites with?
These bites pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy ketchup, or sour cream-based dips.
What other proteins can I use instead of sausage?
You can substitute sausage with cooked bacon, diced ham, or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are a perfect choice for breakfast, appetizers, or a party snack. Their crispy exterior combined with the cheesy, savory interior is bound to please a crowd. Whether you bake or fry them, these bites are guaranteed to be a hit!