When it comes to snacks that bring together the perfect balance of flavor and texture, few dishes can compete with Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites. Whether you’re preparing for a game-day gathering, a weekend brunch, or just a satisfying treat to share with family and friends, this recipe will become a quick favorite in your culinary repertoire. These golden, crispy bites are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Packed with the savory goodness of ground sausage, cheddar cheese, and hashbrowns, they are guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the recipe, step-by-step, so you can bring this mouthwatering dish to life!
Ingredients
Before you get started, it’s important to have everything measured out so that you can breeze through the preparation process. Below are the precise quantities you will need for making Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites.
For the Bites:
8 ounces of softened cream cheese – This will add a rich, creamy texture to the bites, ensuring they stay moist inside while crisping up beautifully on the outside.
4 cups of frozen shredded hash browns – Hashbrowns serve as the base for these bites. The frozen variety makes the process easier, but you can also grate fresh potatoes if preferred.
1 pound of ground breakfast sausage – The sausage gives these bites a savory depth of flavor. You can choose a mild or spicy variety depending on your preference.
1 ½ cups of Bisquick – This all-purpose baking mix helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the bites that crisp, golden exterior.
1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar brings a wonderful tangy flavor that complements the sausage and cream cheese perfectly.
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins:
Chopped green onions – For a touch of color and a mild onion flavor.
Crushed red pepper flakes – If you want to add some extra heat to the sausage bites.
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, it’s time to jump into the preparation process. The following steps will guide you through creating Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites from start to finish.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheating your oven ensures that the bites cook evenly from the moment you place them inside. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment paper prevents the bites from sticking to the sheet and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
Ground breakfast sausage – If your sausage comes in a casing, remove it and crumble it up with your hands or a spoon. If you’re using pre-cooked sausage, make sure to crumble it into small pieces.
Cream cheese – Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to make mixing easier. It helps to create a smooth, creamy consistency for the bites.
Shredded hash browns – Whether you’re using frozen hash browns or freshly grated ones, make sure to drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy bites. Frozen hash browns tend to release water when thawed, so give them a good squeeze or pat them dry with a paper towel.
Shredded cheddar cheese – The cheese will melt and help hold everything together while providing rich flavor.
Bisquick – Add the Bisquick gradually, stirring as you go, until all ingredients are well incorporated. You want the mixture to be firm enough to form into balls but not too dry.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Now that you have your mixture ready, it’s time to form it into bite-sized balls. Using a scoop or your hands, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow for even cooking. If you want to ensure all the bites are uniform in size, using a cookie scoop or an ice cream scooper can be a helpful tool.
Step 4: Bake the Bites
Once all your balls are placed on the baking sheet, it’s time to pop them in the oven. Bake the sausage and hashbrown bites at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The cheese will melt and crisp up, creating a delicious, golden exterior while the inside remains soft and cheesy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your bites are perfectly golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. These bites are best enjoyed hot and fresh, but they also taste great when served warm.
Conservation and Storage
While Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can make them ahead of time and store them for later use. Here’s how you can store and preserve the bites for maximum flavor and freshness:
Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again.
Freezing for Future Use:
If you want to store the bites for a longer period, you can freeze them! To freeze, place the uncooked formed balls on a baking sheet and freeze them for 2 to 3 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the bites into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook them, bake them directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Variations
One of the best things about Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites is how adaptable the recipe is. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Vegetarian Version:
To make these bites vegetarian, swap out the ground breakfast sausage for crumbled vegetarian sausage or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added texture and flavor.
2. Spicy Version:
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce to the sausage mixture. You can even use spicy sausage if you prefer a bolder kick.
3. Cheese Lovers:
For an extra cheesy version, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. You can use pepper jack for a spicy twist or a combination of mozzarella and parmesan for a more gourmet flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Version:
For a gluten-free variation, substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix or make your own using a combination of rice flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are versatile enough to be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas for how to serve them:
1. As a Party Snack:
These bites make for an ideal snack at any gathering. Serve them on a platter with a side of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or barbecue sauce for an extra flavor punch.
2. For Breakfast:
These bites pair wonderfully with a fried egg on top for a savory breakfast or brunch dish. They also go great alongside a fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon.
3. As a Side Dish:
Serve these bites as a side dish alongside your favorite main course, such as grilled chicken, steak, or salmon. They can be a great addition to a family dinner or a holiday meal.
4. As a Quick Lunch:
Pair the bites with a light salad or some vegetable sticks like carrot or cucumber for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior combined with the creamy inside and savory sausage filling makes these bites a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, breakfast, or party appetizer, these bites are sure to impress. With the flexibility to adapt the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them. Give this recipe a try today, and prepare to share a new favorite with family and friends.
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Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites Recipe | Easy and Delicious Snack
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bite-sized pieces (approximately)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are the ultimate savory snack combining crispy, golden hashbrowns with flavorful breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, and creamy cream cheese. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch, game day gathering, or simply craving a satisfying snack. They are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and can be enjoyed fresh, stored for later, or even frozen for future use.
Ingredients
For the Bites:
8 ounces of softened cream cheese – Adds a smooth and creamy texture.
4 cups of frozen shredded hashbrowns – The base of these bites, providing that crispy crunch.
1 pound of ground breakfast sausage – Can be mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
1 ½ cups of Bisquick – A quick and easy binding agent for the mixture.
1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese – Provides tangy, melted goodness.
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins:
Chopped green onions – For a pop of color and mild flavor.
Crushed red pepper flakes – To add a little extra heat.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the bites don’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
Softened cream cheese
Shredded hashbrowns (drained of excess moisture)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Bisquick
Stir the ingredients together until they are well incorporated and form a uniform mixture. The mixture should be firm enough to roll into balls but still soft and sticky.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Using a tablespoon or an ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place each ball onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced a bit apart for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Bites
Bake the sausage and hashbrown bites in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Check to make sure they are fully cooked and crispy to your liking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the bites are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or sriracha mayo.
Notes
Storage: You can store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to restore their crispness.
Freezing: These bites can be frozen for up to 3 months. After forming the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground sausage for vegetarian sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version of these bites.
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (out of 24)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg