Crispy Hash Brown Sausage Bites
These Crispy Hash Brown Sausage Bites are packed with savory sausage, crispy hash browns, melted cheddar cheese, and simple seasonings. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or meal prep—and can be baked or cooked in the air fryer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked sausage, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Shape the Bites
- Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls or gently flatten into small patties.
Air Fryer Method
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the bites in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Oven Method
- Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or brush with oil.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.
Tips
- Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the thawed hash browns for extra crispiness.
- Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Cook in batches if using an air fryer to avoid overcrowding.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Bacon & Cheddar: Replace half the sausage with cooked, crumbled bacon.
- Southwest: Add diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and taco seasoning.
- Veggie: Mix in finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Italian: Use Italian sausage and mozzarella cheese with a pinch of Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Maple syrup
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast
Storage
Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds (the bites will be less crispy)