Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers: The Ultimate Party Recipe

When it comes to party food, everyone loves something crispy, savory, and easy to pick up. Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers deliver all of that and more. These bite-sized treats combine breakfast sausage, shredded hash browns, cheese, and seasonings, then are fried to golden perfection. They’re perfect for game days, brunch gatherings, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing snack.

These appetizers are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as small balls, patties, or even mini tater tot-style bites. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender, cheesy interior, making them irresistible for both kids and adults. Plus, you can customize the flavors with different cheeses, spices, or add-ins like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, these Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers are sure to become a staple at your parties. Below, you’ll find a complete guide to making them, including ingredient details, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to ensure perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild, maple, or spicy depending on preference)
• 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

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking

• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2–3 cups)

Optional Garnishes & Serving

• Sour cream or favorite dipping sauce
• Chopped green onions

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet (lined with parchment paper)
• Slotted spoon
• Deep skillet or Dutch oven for frying
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and crumble it with a spatula. Cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Cook the Onion

Add the finely chopped onion to the cooked sausage. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and translucent. This adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage and onion with the thawed hash browns, shredded cheese, flour, and lightly beaten eggs. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together slightly when pressed.

Step 4: Form the Appetizers

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into small balls or flatten into patty shapes. Place each formed appetizer on the baking sheet.

Optional: Refrigerate the formed appetizers for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This makes them easier to fry and helps maintain shape.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible to ensure consistent frying temperature.

Step 6: Fry in Batches

Carefully add the appetizers to the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even frying. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip halfway through cooking.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Remove the cooked appetizers with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions and alongside your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, ranch, or spicy aioli.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange appetizers on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
• Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers

• Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
• Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or hot sauce to the mixture for extra heat.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be cooked and added for more flavor and nutrients.
• Firming the Mixture: Chilling the formed appetizers before frying prevents them from falling apart in the oil.

Why This Recipe Works

These appetizers succeed because of balance: the crispy exterior contrasts with the tender, cheesy interior, while the sausage adds savory depth. Hash browns provide structure, and the eggs and flour help bind everything together. Frying creates the golden texture that makes them irresistible, while optional baking or air-frying offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Storage

Store leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and crispy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. You can form the appetizers and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.

Q2: Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze shaped appetizers on a tray for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.

Q3: Can I use turkey or plant-based sausage?
Absolutely. Both alternatives work and reduce fat content if desired.

Q4: How do I prevent them from falling apart during frying?
Chill the mixture before frying and avoid overcrowding the oil. Fry at a consistent 350°F (175°C).

Q5: Can I make them healthier?
Yes. Use baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying, and consider lower-fat cheese or turkey sausage.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24–30 appetizers

Sausage Hashbrown Appetizers are perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where finger food is appreciated. Crispy, cheesy, and savory, these bite-sized treats are always a crowd favorite.