Hashbrown Sausage Bites are a perfect combination of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and melty cheese, making them an ideal bite-sized snack for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer. These little bites are easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be prepared ahead of time. Perfect for busy mornings or parties!
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 cups frozen hashbrowns (thawed and drained of excess moisture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Hashbrown Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced onions (if using), and diced bell peppers (if using).
- Add the eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Form the Bites
- Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the hashbrown mixture into your hands and roll it into small balls. If using a mini muffin tin, press the mixture into the muffin cups.
- Place the formed bites onto the prepared baking sheet or into the muffin tin.
Step 5: Bake the Bites
- Bake the hashbrown sausage bites in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the bites with freshly chopped parsley and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, sour cream, or ranch.
Cook Notes
- Hashbrowns: Make sure the hashbrowns are thawed and drained of any excess moisture to prevent soggy bites.
- Crispier Bites: For extra crispy bites, bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the bites.
- Cheese: You can swap cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
Variations
- Bacon and Sausage Bites: Add crumbled bacon to the mixture for an extra savory twist.
- Spicy Hashbrown Bites: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Vegetarian Hashbrown Bites: Omit the sausage and load up on veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these hashbrown sausage bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. You can also form the bites and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze hashbrown sausage bites?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked bites. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, place them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze baked bites and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with hashbrown sausage bites?
These bites are perfect with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch dressing, or sour cream. They also go well with scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or a side of toast for a complete breakfast.
Hashbrown Sausage Bites are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and crispy in every bite. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or a party appetizer. Serve them warm with your favorite dips, and enjoy these delicious, comforting bites!
