Quick Description
These Sausage Hashbrown Bites are the perfect savory snack or breakfast bite to fuel your day! Packed with protein-rich sausage, creamy cream cheese, and crispy hashbrowns, these bites are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With a delicious combination of flavors and textures, they’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun twist on your usual hashbrowns, these bites deliver in both flavor and convenience.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 24-30 bites (depending on size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy; you can also use a plant-based alternative for a vegan version)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1½ cups biscuit baking mix (such as Bisquick, or a homemade blend with flour, baking powder, salt, and a bit of shortening)
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (Cabot, Tillamook, or your favorite brand)
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and patted dry
- Optional garnish: Chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
Step 1 — Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with paper liners for easy removal.
Step 2 — Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the 1 lb ground breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s fully browned and crumbled. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 3 — Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 1½ cups biscuit baking mix
- 1½ cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 cups thawed and patted dry frozen shredded hash browns
Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky. Add the cooled sausage to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4 — Shape the Bites
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup, pressing it down gently to form a bite-sized portion. Continue until all the mixture is used up.
Step 5 — Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
Step 6 — Garnish and Serve
Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool slightly in the muffin tin before transferring them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Additional Notes
- Texture Tip: Be sure to pat the frozen hashbrowns dry before adding them to the mixture to prevent excess moisture and ensure crispy bites.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheese types, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare these bites in advance by assembling them in the muffin tin, then covering and refrigerating them until ready to bake. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: Thanks to the sausage and cheddar cheese, these bites are packed with protein, making them a great option for a satisfying snack or breakfast.
- Low-Carb (when using a keto baking mix): These bites are low-carb and can be enjoyed as part of a keto or low-carb diet, especially if you use a keto-friendly baking mix or almond flour instead of the regular biscuit mix.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuit mix for a gluten-free version.
- Kid-Friendly: With their cheesy, savory flavor and bite-sized portions, these are perfect for getting kids to eat their veggies (or in this case, hashbrowns!) in a fun way.
Variations
- Veggie Version: Add in some finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for an added veggie boost. Just be sure to sauté any extra vegetables to remove moisture before adding them to the mixture.
- Spicy Sausage Version: Use spicy breakfast sausage or add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a fiery twist.
- Cheese Lover’s Version: Add a combination of different cheeses, like mozzarella for extra meltiness or parmesan for a salty kick.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: These bites are perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes for best results.
- Freezing: You can also freeze these bites for up to 2 months. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the oven from frozen for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these without sausage?
Yes! You can easily substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option or even use cooked chicken breast or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Q: Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
Q: Can I make these without the cheese?
While cheese adds a delicious richness, you can omit it if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change.
Call-to-Action
Looking for a high-protein, savory snack that’s perfect for meal prep? Try these Sausage Hashbrown Bites for a delicious and satisfying treat! Let me know how they turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with a friend who loves tasty, healthy snacks!
