Crispy on the outside, savory on the inside, these Sausage & Hash Brown Balls are the perfect appetizer, breakfast addition, or party snack. They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and cheeses.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (bulk, not links)
- 1 (20-ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- Optional: Dipping sauce (ketchup, ranch, spicy mayo, etc.)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, thawed and squeezed dry hash browns, shredded cheese, chopped onion (if using), flour, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the beaten egg and mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Form the Balls:
- Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a ball.
- Roll the ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Place the coated balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cooking Options:
- Frying:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- Carefully drop the sausage and hash brown balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove the balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Baking:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the sausage and hash brown balls onto a baking sheet that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
- Frying:
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- You can use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
- For a healthier version, you can air fry them. spray the balls with olive oil, and air fry at 400 degrees F, for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket half way through.
- Make ahead: these can be made ahead of time, and then reheated in the oven, or air fryer.
- Add chopped bell peppers, or jalapenos to the mixture for more flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Sausage & Hash Brown Balls!