Description
Get ready to serve a snack that disappears the second it hits the table. These crispy sausage hashbrown bites are everything you want in a party appetizer — crunchy edges, savory sausage, melty cheese, and all the cozy breakfast flavors rolled into one irresistible little package. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just craving something fun to munch on, these golden bites always deliver.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or maple is great, but spicy adds a kick)
- 1 (20 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or any cheese you love
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2–3 cups)
- Optional: sour cream or any dipping sauce you enjoy
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium. Crumble in the sausage and cook until browned and no pink remains — about 7–10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the Onion
Stir the chopped onion into the sausage. Let it cook until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Build the Mixture
Transfer the sausage-onion combo to a big mixing bowl. Add the thawed hash browns, shredded cheese, flour, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix Everything Together
Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture looks evenly blended.
5. Shape the Bites
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop small portions of the mixture using a tablespoon or mini cookie scoop. Roll them into balls or press gently to create mini patties. Arrange them on the lined tray.
6. Chill the Mixture (Optional)
Pop the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes if you want the bites to hold their shape even better when frying.
7. Heat the Oil
Pour oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven so it’s about 2–3 inches deep. Warm it over medium heat until it hits 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry in Small Batches
Carefully lower a few bites into the hot oil — don’t overcrowd, or they won’t crisp properly.
9. Cook Until Crisp and Golden
Fry each piece for 2–3 minutes per side. Flip once, and remove when both sides are golden and cooked through.
10. Drain and Serve
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the finished bites to a paper towel–lined plate. Serve them warm with your favorite sauce and a sprinkle of green onions if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
- Try Different Cheeses: Pepper jack adds heat, mozzarella brings extra melty goodness, and a cheddar blend is always classic.
- Turn Up the Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in cooked bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and color.
- Bake Instead of Fry: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until crisp and lightly browned.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture (microwave works, but they won’t be as crispy).