Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Hashbrowns:

• If you’re using frozen hashbrowns, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture. You can do this by placing them in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing out the liquid. The less moisture, the crispier your hashbrowns will be.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns with the shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, and bell pepper (if using). Stir the mixture together until evenly distributed.

2. Cook the Sausage:

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until fully browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat and let the sausage cool slightly before adding it to the hashbrown mixture.
• Add the cooked sausage to the hashbrowns, along with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

3. Form the Bites:

• Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until it binds everything together. The egg will help the mixture hold its shape when frying.
• Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized balls or patties, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.

4. Coat the Bites:

• Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Gently roll each formed bite in the breadcrumbs to coat them evenly. This will create a crispy, golden crust on the outside once they’re fried.

5. Fry the Hashbrown Sausage Bites:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded hashbrown sausage bites in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to fry them in batches.
• Fry the bites for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once all the bites are cooked, serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy mustard. These crispy hashbrown sausage bites make an excellent addition to any meal and can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat, snack, or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites:

• Crispy and Crunchy: The combination of crispy hashbrowns and a breadcrumb coating gives these bites an irresistible crunch on the outside while staying soft and flavorful on the inside.
• Savory and Satisfying: With the savory sausage, melty cheese, and spices, every bite is packed with comforting flavors that will leave you wanting more.
• Customizable: You can easily make this recipe your own by adding other ingredients like cooked bacon, spinach, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also use a different type of cheese or sausage to match your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them at a family brunch, as a party appetizer, or just enjoying them as a quick snack, these bites are sure to be a hit. They’re also a great make-ahead option if you’re planning a gathering and need something easy to prepare.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites:

1. Ensure the Hashbrowns Are Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from your hashbrowns before mixing them.
2. Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder, paprika, and other seasonings to suit your taste. You can even add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Use a Non-Stick Pan: If you don’t want to use too much oil, you can also cook these in a non-stick skillet or even bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Make Them Ahead of Time: You can make these hashbrown sausage bites ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just reheat in the oven or in a skillet to crisp them back up before serving.

Conclusion:

These Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and crispy goodness. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can easily whip up a batch of these irresistible bites that are sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, these hashbrown sausage bites are a delicious way to enjoy the comforting flavors of sausage and potatoes.