The other day, I was hosting a brunch for some friends, and I wanted to serve something beyond the usual eggs and sausage. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of these Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites. Let me tell you, they were a hit!
These little bites of goodness are the perfect combination of savory sausage, cheesy goodness, and crispy hashbrowns. They’re surprisingly easy to make, too; from start to finish, you’ll have them ready in under 45 minutes!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites
- Perfect for Parties: These bites are always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a brunch, game day gathering, or holiday party.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love these savory, cheesy bites.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
What Makes This Recipe Work?
The magic behind these Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites lies in the perfect balance of ingredients. Bisquick acts as a fantastic binder, holding everything together while creating a light and airy texture. The cream cheese is key; it adds moisture and richness, preventing the bites from becoming dry. To ensure they are crispy, I always make sure to thaw the hashbrowns really well, so excess moisture does not ruin the texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb of high-quality ground turkey breakfast sausage (uncooked)
- 8 oz of premium cream cheese (brought to room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups of Bisquick or equivalent high-grade biscuit mix
- 1 1/2 cups of finely shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups of frozen hashbrowns (properly thawed)
Ingredient Notes
The cream cheese is super important; be sure it is softened to room temperature, so it mixes smoothly. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a classic flavor, but I also love experimenting with other cheeses.
For the hashbrowns, I recommend the standard shredded variety for even distribution throughout the bites. When selecting your breakfast sausage, keep in mind that a one-ounce serving of a pork sausage patty contains approximately 6.53g of protein.
If you are looking for another great breakfast or brunch item, check out this delicious recipe for Amazing Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs!
Equipment Recommendations
Having the right equipment can really streamline the cooking process. I recommend using a medium-sized cookie scoop (about 1 1/2 inches) to ensure uniform bites that cook evenly.
A large baking sheet lined with parchment paper is essential for easy cleanup and prevents the bites from sticking. I prefer using a high-quality, non-stick baking sheet for even browning. A good mixing bowl is useful too; choose one large enough to easily combine all the ingredients.
How to Make Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites: Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Prior to beginning the preparation process, preheat the oven to a temperature of 400°F. Concurrently, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for ease of removal post-baking and for facilitating a clean environment.
- Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl of appropriate depth, methodically combine the ground turkey breakfast sausage, room-temperature cream cheese, Bisquick or biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and thawed hashbrowns. Ensure that the mixture is consistent and all ingredients are distributed evenly.
- Step 3: Carefully shape the mixture into spheres with a diameter of approximately 1 1/2 inches. Position each sphere on the previously prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced appropriately to prevent merging during the baking process.
- Step 4: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and allow the Turkey Sausage Hashbrown Bites to bake. Monitor the baking process for a duration of 20-25 minutes, or until the Turkey Sausage Hashbrown Bites are thoroughly cooked through and have achieved a golden brown hue.
- Step 5: Once baking is completed, remove the baking sheet from the oven. For best results, allow the Turkey Sausage Hashbrown Bites to cool momentarily before serving. Ensure they are served at an appropriate temperature for consumption.
Detailed Baking Instructions
As the Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites bake, keep an eye on them. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color with slightly crispy edges. The texture should be firm to the touch. I usually let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes before serving; this allows them to firm up a bit more and makes them easier to handle.
For another great side dish, similar to these bites, try this Easy Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe.
Variations and Substitutions
| Substitution | Reason | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Bisquick | Gluten intolerance | Ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement. |
| Vegan Sausage | Vegan diet | May need to adjust moisture levels. |
| Dairy-Free Cheese | Dairy intolerance or vegan diet | Some brands melt better than others; experiment to find your favorite. |
| Different Cheese | Flavor Preference | Consider pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda. |
| Different Sausage | Flavor Preference | Italian Sausage, chorizo |
Dietary Modifications
| Modification | Ingredient Swap | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Keto/Low-Carb | Almond Flour for Bisquick | May need to add an egg or binder for better consistency. |
| Gluten-Free | Gluten-Free Bisquick | Ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement. |
Make-Ahead Instructions
If you want to get ahead, you can definitely prep these Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites in advance. I recommend mixing all the ingredients, forming the bites, and then refrigerating them on the baking sheet for up to 24 hours.
To prevent the hashbrowns from getting soggy, make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before mixing. Bake them as directed when you’re ready to serve. This recipe is the perfect addition to any breakfast brunch menu.
Storage Instructions
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave them in short intervals.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are so versatile! I love serving them as part of a big breakfast spread with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and toast. They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, or serve them in mini muffin tins for a cute presentation.
Dipping Sauce Recipes/Suggestions
- Honey Mustard: Combine 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. Mix well and serve.
- Spicy Mayo: Mix 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha sauce, depending on your spice preference.
- Cheese Sauce: Melt 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with 2 tablespoons of milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Troubleshooting
- Bites falling apart: Try adding a beaten egg to the mixture to help bind the ingredients better.
- Not browning evenly: Make sure the bites are evenly spaced on the baking sheet, and rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking.
- Bites being dry: Ensure your cream cheese is softened, and don’t overbake the bites.
Nutrition Information
Disclaimer: This is an estimate only.
Per serving (approx. 2 bites):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
FAQs about Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach would be delicious additions.
Can I freeze the hashbrown and sausage bites?
Yes, freeze them after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Could I serve these as an appetizer?
Definitely, they’re perfect as an appetizer!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the baking time slightly.
Can I make them smaller?
Of course! Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
These Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites are a guaranteed hit, no matter the occasion. They’re easy to make, customizable, and oh-so-delicious. I hope you give this recipe a try and share your results with me in the comments below. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!
Remarkable Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prior to beginning the preparation process, preheat the oven to a temperature of 400°F. Concurrently, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for ease of removal post-baking and for facilitating a clean environment.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl of appropriate depth, methodically combine the ground turkey breakfast sausage, room-temperature cream cheese, Bisquick or biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and thawed hashbrowns. Ensure that the mixture is consistent and all ingredients are distributed evenly.
- Carefully shape the mixture into spheres with a diameter of approximately 1 1/2 inches. Position each sphere on the previously prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced appropriately to prevent merging during the baking process.
- Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and allow the Turkey Sausage Hashbrown Bites to bake. Monitor the baking process for a duration of 20-25 minutes, or until the Turkey Sausage Hashbrown Bites are thoroughly cooked through and have achieved a golden brown hue.
- Once baking is completed, remove the baking sheet from the oven. For best results, allow the Turkey Sausage Hashbrown Bites to cool momentarily before serving. Ensure they are served at an appropriate temperature for consumption.
Nutrition
Notes
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