When it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing recipes, baked sausage hash brown balls are a top contender. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a quick breakfast bite, these savory delights are loaded with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of juicy sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey melted cheese creates a comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit at gatherings or just a quiet evening at home.
Not only are these sausage hash brown balls a breeze to make, but they also pack well for potlucks or meal prep. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, tailgating party, or simply craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s versatile—easy to tweak to fit your taste buds or dietary preferences. Let’s dive into why this recipe is destined to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
1. Quick and Easy: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients—this is a recipe anyone can make, even on busy days.
2. Full of Flavor: With seasoned sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy hash browns, every bite bursts with bold, savory flavors.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, a party, or a casual snack, these hash brown balls fit the bill perfectly.
4. Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add extras like jalapeños or your favorite seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredients Needed:
• Ground Sausage: The star of the dish, providing a savory and slightly spicy base. Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference.
• Frozen Hash Browns: Shredded hash browns add texture and a crispy element to the sausage balls. Thaw them before using for easier mixing.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the sausage perfectly.
• Eggs: Helps bind the mixture together, ensuring your sausage balls hold their shape.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds structure and a slight crunch to the texture.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and any additional spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for added flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Form the Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and the balls are golden brown.
5. Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.
Variations:
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicier version.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Breakfast Style: Mix in chopped cooked bacon or a sprinkle of maple syrup for a breakfast-inspired twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or shredded zucchini to sneak in some veggies.
Storage:
1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, place the fully cooked sausage balls in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Reheating: Warm the balls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through to maintain their crispiness.
FAQs:
1. Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to grate the potatoes finely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them into the sausage.
2. Can I make these sausage balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, form the balls, and store them in the fridge. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
3. What’s the best way to reheat these without drying them out?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. To keep them moist, cover them with foil during reheating or include a small bowl of water in the oven for added humidity.
This recipe is a guaranteed hit for any occasion—easy to make, loaded with flavor, and endlessly versatile. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the plate in no time!
Baked Sausage Hashbrown Balls
Ingredients
- 30 ounces approximately 4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
- 1 pound uncooked spicy sausage regular sausage can be used as an alternative
- 1½ cups Bisquick mix
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the hash browns, sausage, Bisquick mix, cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese until well combined. Using a dough hook attachment on an electric mixer can make this step easier.
- Form Balls: Use a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop to portion out the mixture, then roll each portion into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between each one.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and the balls are golden brown.
