Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites

🥔 Introduction:

Looking for a hearty, bite-sized breakfast option that’s crispy on the outside and savory on the inside? These Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites bring together golden hashbrowns, flavorful sausage, melty cheese, and a touch of seasoning for the perfect morning (or anytime) treat. They’re great for meal prep, brunch spreads, or quick snacks.

📝 Ingredients:

Main:

3 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed and patted dry
1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or plant-based), cooked and crumbled
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
3 large eggs
¼ cup milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Non-stick cooking spray or oil for greasing

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Method:

🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray or oil. You can also use a regular muffin tin for larger bites—just adjust cooking time.

🍳 Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and no longer pink.
Break it into small crumbles with a spatula or wooden spoon.
Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.

🥣 Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
- Thawed and dried hashbrowns
- Cooked sausage
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Eggs
- Milk
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Chives or green onions (if using)
Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not runny.

🧁 Step 4: Assemble the Bites

Spoon the mixture into each mini muffin cup.
Press down slightly to pack them tightly — this helps them hold together and get crispy edges.

⏲️ Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- For regular muffin tins, bake 25–30 minutes.
Let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan before carefully removing with a spoon or butter knife.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Serve warm with ketchup, hot sauce, sour cream, or a creamy mustard dip.
Great with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

🧊 Storage & Reheating:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

✅ Tips:

Make them vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and color.
For extra crispiness, bake a few minutes longer or broil the tops at the end.