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Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers: The Ultimate Party Recipe

4.4 from 90 reviews

Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers are irresistible bite-sized treats perfect for parties and gatherings. These crispy, golden brown appetizers combine savory breakfast sausage, tender shredded hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese for a flavorful and hearty snack. Fried to perfection and served warm with optional dipping sauces, they make a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious to enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

For Frying and Serving

  • 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

  1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  2. Add Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked sausage and onion mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the thawed shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together until evenly combined and well mixed.
  5. Form Appetizers: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop portions of the mixture using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, then roll them into small balls or flatten into patty shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Chill (Optional): Refrigerate the formed appetizers for at least 30 minutes to firm them up, which helps maintain their shape during frying.
  7. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  8. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the appetizers to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. This allows them to cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
  9. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until the appetizers are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even frying.
  10. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the appetizers from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  11. Serve Warm: Serve the sausage hashbrown appetizers warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream and garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

  • For best results, thaw the frozen hash browns completely and squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid soggy appetizers.
  • Refrigerating the formed appetizers before frying helps them hold their shape and fry up crispier.
  • You can customize the cheese to your liking; a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well.
  • If you prefer baked appetizers, bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for optimal frying results and to prevent greasy appetizers.

Keywords: sausage appetizers, hashbrown appetizers, party snacks, fried appetizers, breakfast sausage recipes, easy appetizers