Are you craving a delectable comfort food that combines savory sausage with crispy hash browns? Look no further than our Sausage & Hash Brown Balls recipe! Perfect for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a unique party appetizer, these flavorful bites are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this easy, delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) breakfast sausage (bulk, not in casings)
- 2 cups (240g) frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or dried rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg (beaten, for coating)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the breakfast sausage, thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but easy to handle.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the sausage and hash brown mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Coat the Balls: In a shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In another shallow bowl, place the beaten egg. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Roll each sausage and hash brown ball first in the flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Serve: Allow the sausage and hash brown balls to cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or mustard.
Tips for Success:
- Thaw the Hash Browns: Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
- Customize Your Balls: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, cooked bacon, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the balls in advance and freeze them before baking. Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why You’ll Love Sausage & Hash Brown Balls:
These Sausage & Hash Brown Balls are the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect blend of savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, as a game day snack, or at a holiday gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.
Serving and Storage Tips for Sausage & Hash Brown Balls
Serving Tips:
- Dipping Sauces: Enhance the flavor of your Sausage & Hash Brown Balls with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with classic options like ranch dressing, ketchup, or mustard. For a gourmet touch, try dipping sauces such as honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or barbecue sauce.
- Serving Temperature: These balls are delicious whether served warm or at room temperature. For optimal taste, serve them fresh out of the oven or warmed up if they’ve been prepped in advance.
- Garnishes: Add a bit of flair by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can also elevate their flavor.
- Presentation: Arrange the sausage and hash brown balls on a platter lined with parchment paper or a decorative serving dish. Add a few small bowls of dipping sauces around the platter for easy access.
- Accompaniments: Pair the balls with a light salad or a side of fresh vegetables to balance the meal. They can also be served alongside scrambled eggs and fruit for a hearty breakfast.
Storage Tips:
- Cooling: Allow the sausage and hash brown balls to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can make them soggy.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 4 days. For best results, consume within this timeframe to enjoy their optimal flavor and texture.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled sausage and hash brown balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container, and they will keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or frozen balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
- Microwave: While not ideal for maintaining crispiness, you can use the microwave to quickly reheat leftovers. Place the balls on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Sausage & Hash Brown Balls at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or enjoying leftovers.
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese according to your preference. For a different flavor profile, try using mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack cheese. Just make sure the cheese is shredded to help it melt and combine well with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make these sausage and hash brown balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and hash brown mixture ahead of time. Form the balls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked balls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. How can I make these sausage and hash brown balls spicier?
To add some heat to your sausage and hash brown balls, incorporate ingredients like finely chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes into the mixture. You can also use a spicy sausage or add a bit of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend for an extra kick.
4. Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of sausage depending on your taste preference. Italian sausage, chorizo, or chicken sausage can be great alternatives. Just make sure to cook any raw sausage thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. If using pre-cooked sausage, ensure it’s finely chopped and well-mixed into the hash brown mixture.