CRISPY HASHBROWN SAUSAGE BITES

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, ground sausage, cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, bread crumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on the greased baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Cooking spray or oil
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Oven

Tips and Variations

Tips

• Thaw the hashbrowns: Ensure the hashbrowns are fully thawed and excess moisture is removed by patting them dry with paper towels. This will help the bites stay crispy.
• Mix thoroughly: Use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of sausage and cheese.
• Use a cookie scoop: For uniform-sized bites, use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture before rolling into balls.

Variations

• Spicy Sausage Bites: Use hot sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss for varied flavors.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative to make a vegetarian version of this dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Crispy Hashbrown Sausage Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but they may not retain their crispiness.

Food and Drink Pairings

These bites are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a fresh green salad or a hearty bowl of soup. When it comes to drinks, a light beer or a crisp white wine complements the savory flavors perfectly.