These crispy cheesy sausage hash browns offer the perfect balance of golden, crunchy edges and a tender, cheesy interior. With the savory sausage mixed throughout, every bite is a delightful treat. The addition of melted cheddar and Parmesan gives it a rich and comforting flavor that’s hard to resist. Perfectly paired with eggs or served as a satisfying snack on its own, this dish is sure to please any crowd.
Whether you’re looking to add a little more flavor to your breakfast spread or enjoy a savory snack, these hash browns are versatile and delicious. You can even swap the sausage for bacon or your favorite protein to make this dish truly your own. It’s an easy and fun way to elevate your meal with minimal effort and maximum taste!
Full Recipe:
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, cooked sausage, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Form the potato mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
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Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the hash browns are golden and crispy on both sides. Flip halfway through for even crispness.
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Once done, remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns: A Perfect Comfort Food
Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns are a satisfying and indulgent meal that combines the perfect amount of crunch, savory sausage, and gooey melted cheese. This dish brings comfort and flavor in each bite, making it a wonderful choice for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for dinner. The combination of golden brown hash browns, rich cheddar cheese, and hearty sausage creates a winning combination that’s sure to please a crowd.
Why These Hash Browns Are So Special
The beauty of Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns lies in the contrast of textures. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a soft and cheesy center, with the added bonus of savory sausage crumbled throughout. Whether served alongside eggs for a full breakfast or eaten as a delicious snack, these hash browns will keep everyone coming back for more. The combination of cheese and sausage creates a comforting, filling dish that feels indulgent but remains relatively easy to prepare.
What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can make it as simple or as decadent as you like by adjusting the type of cheese or meat used. Whether you prefer mild cheddar or sharp parmesan, or you want to substitute the sausage for bacon, there’s plenty of room for customization. You can also experiment with additional seasonings or add-ins like herbs and spices to elevate the flavor profile to suit your tastes.
The Appeal of Homemade Hash Browns
There’s something truly satisfying about making hash browns from scratch. While frozen versions may be convenient, homemade hash browns offer a crispness and flavor that’s hard to match. By grating your potatoes fresh and squeezing out excess moisture, you can achieve that golden, crispy texture that’s the hallmark of a good hash brown. The addition of cheese and sausage elevates this dish beyond just a side; it becomes a stand-alone, hearty meal.
Using fresh potatoes also allows you to control the texture, ensuring that your hash browns have the perfect crunch. Plus, homemade hash browns are customizable, allowing you to add the ingredients that you love most. While the classic combination of cheese and sausage is a winner, don’t be afraid to get creative with your additions to make the dish your own.
Tips for Making the Perfect Crispy Hash Browns
Achieving the perfect crispy texture for your hash browns can be a bit tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be able to master the technique. The first step is to thoroughly dry your grated potatoes before cooking. Excess moisture will prevent the hash browns from getting crispy, so using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out the liquid is essential. Once the potatoes are dry, they will crisp up beautifully when cooked.
Next, use a combination of oil and butter to cook your hash browns. Butter provides flavor, while oil ensures that the hash browns crisp up without burning. A medium-high heat is ideal for frying, as it ensures that the exterior becomes golden brown while the inside stays tender. Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each hash brown enough space to cook evenly. If you’re making a large batch, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Why You Should Add Sausage to Your Hash Browns
The addition of sausage to your hash browns brings a savory richness that takes the dish to the next level. Sausage adds depth of flavor, with its juicy and slightly spicy notes complementing the cheese and potatoes. You can choose from a variety of sausages, depending on your flavor preferences. For a milder flavor, go with a breakfast sausage, or opt for something spicier, like Italian sausage, for a bolder kick.
Another benefit of using sausage is that it brings protein to the dish, making the hash browns more filling and satisfying. When combined with the rich cheese, the sausage makes this a hearty meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner. Sausage can also be crumbled or chopped into small pieces, allowing it to evenly distribute throughout the hash browns, so each bite contains a bit of savory sausage goodness.
Cheese Varieties to Elevate the Flavor
Cheese is another key ingredient in making these hash browns irresistible. The melted cheese creates that gooey, indulgent texture that everyone loves. While cheddar is a classic choice for its sharp, tangy flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese to create a unique twist on this recipe. Gouda or mozzarella will give the dish a creamy, mild flavor, while parmesan adds a salty, nutty element that pairs perfectly with the richness of the sausage.
You can also blend different cheeses together for a more complex flavor profile. A combination of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy parmesan creates a deliciously cheesy experience that enhances every bite. When choosing cheese for your hash browns, opt for high-quality, flavorful varieties to really elevate the taste of the dish.
Ways to Customize Your Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns
While the classic version of Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns is undeniably delicious, there are countless ways to customize the recipe to suit your personal taste. One way to add more depth of flavor is to experiment with spices. Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika can all add a wonderful flavor boost to the hash browns. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can also be mixed into the potatoes for a burst of freshness.
If you’re looking to make the dish even more indulgent, you can top the crispy hash browns with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and enhances the savory flavors of the dish. Another way to customize your hash browns is by adding vegetables, such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach. These veggies not only add flavor but also provide extra nutrients, making the dish even more wholesome.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns
Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences. For a classic breakfast, serve them with scrambled eggs, a side of fruit, and a drizzle of hot sauce. The hash browns are also fantastic as a brunch dish, paired with a fresh salad and a cup of coffee.
If you’re serving them for dinner, consider pairing the hash browns with grilled chicken, a steak, or even a simple green salad to balance out the richness. For a more indulgent option, you could serve them with a creamy dip, such as sour cream or ranch dressing, on the side. The crispy, cheesy goodness of the hash browns will shine no matter how you choose to serve them.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheesy Sausage Hash Browns are a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, their combination of crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and melted cheese is sure to please everyone at the table. With endless customization options, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary preferences. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness with every bite!