Ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or maple preferred, spicy works too)

1 (20 ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups)

Optional: Sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving

Optional: Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage and onion mixture with the thawed shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Mix all ingredients thoroughly until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop portions of the mixture using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop. Roll into small balls or flatten into patty shapes and place on the baking sheet.

Step 6: (Optional) Refrigerate the formed appetizers for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 7: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of 2–3 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 8: Carefully add the appetizers to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the skillet.

Step 9: Fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip halfway through cooking.

Step 10: Remove the appetizers from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 11: Serve the appetizers warm with your favorite dipping sauces and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, chill the formed appetizers before frying to help them hold their shape better.

Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for a flavor twist.

Spice lovers can substitute the mild sausage with a spicy variety to add heat.

If you prefer baking over frying, bake the appetizers at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage

Store leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness rather than microwaving. You can also freeze the uncooked formed appetizers for up to 1 month and fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to cooking time.

FAQs

Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and form the appetizers a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated until ready to fry. You can also freeze them before frying for longer storage.