Keto Crispy Hash-Brown and Sausage Bites

Ready In: 35-40 minutes
Yields: 24 bites

These keto sausage bites have a crunchy exterior with a soft, cheesy, and savory center. The secret to keeping them low-carb is using riced cauliflower instead of traditional hash browns and swapping Bisquick with a low-carb alternative.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces softened cream cheese
    Ensure it’s softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  • 4 cups frozen riced cauliflower, thawed and drained
    Riced cauliflower replaces traditional hash browns, providing a low-carb option that still has a satisfying texture.
  • 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
    Look for a sausage that’s sugar-free and keto-friendly.
  • 1 ½ cups almond flour (instead of Bisquick)
    Almond flour helps bind the mixture and keeps it low-carb.
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
    Cheddar provides a rich and melty cheese flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    Gives a little rise to the bites.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    For added flavor.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the sausage:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prep the riced cauliflower:
    Make sure your riced cauliflower is well-drained. If it’s frozen, thaw it first, and then press out excess moisture with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess water helps ensure the bites stay crispy.
  4. Mix the ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, riced cauliflower, almond flour, shredded cheddar cheese, baking powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to form into balls.
  5. Form the bites:
    Using a scoop or your hands, form balls of about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place the sausage bites onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
  6. Bake:
    Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cheese should be melted, and the bites will hold together well.
  7. Cool and enjoy:
    Once the bites are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy these crispy, cheesy bites as a snack or part of a keto-friendly breakfast spread.

Tips and Variations

  • Spice it up: Add some heat with crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicier flavor.
  • Cheese options: Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack, Monterey jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  • Storage: These sausage bites can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbs: 4g (Net: 2g)
  • Fiber: 2g

These Keto Crispy Hashbrown and Sausage Bites are perfect for meal prep, parties, or anytime you want a low-carb, cheesy treat. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and can be enjoyed by anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle!