This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a winner for breakfast lovers! It combines crispy tater tots, savory sausage, and gooey cheese for a warm, tasty dish that’s sure to start your day right.
It’s perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunch with friends. I love how I can just throw everything together, bake, and enjoy a cozy meal without much fuss. Who doesn’t love a hearty breakfast? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These provide the base for the casserole. You can switch them out for hash browns if you prefer a different texture. But honestly, I think nothing beats the crispiness of tater tots!
Sausage: You can opt for turkey sausage for a lighter option or even a vegetarian sausage. I like using spicy sausage for a kick, but mild works just as well if you prefer something more family-friendly.
Eggs: The eggs bind everything together. If you need a dairy-free option, you could replace the eggs with a plant-based egg substitute, though I recommend sticking with real eggs for the best flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a creamy, cheesy goodness. If you want to mix it up, feel free to use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some heat!
Green Onions: Though optional, they add a nice freshness. You could substitute them with chives or skip them altogether if you’re not a fan.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your casserole just right is key. Here are some steps to follow to ensure perfect results:
- Preheat your oven: Always make sure your oven is fully preheated to avoid uneven cooking.
- Check egg set: The casserole is ready when the eggs are set in the middle. A gentle jiggle is okay, but there shouldn’t be any runny eggs.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking helps keep it from falling apart when serving.
- Test for doneness: When in doubt, use a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
These tips will help you serve a beautiful, delicious breakfast casserole each time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍳
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 to 40 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 55 minutes total to have a wonderful breakfast spread that serves 6-8 people!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little butter, so nothing sticks.
2. Cooking the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Make sure it gets nice and brown. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set it aside to cool a bit.
3. Layering the Tater Tots:
Evenly spread the frozen tater tots across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This crispy base is where all the goodness will build!
4. Adding the Sausage:
Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the top of the tater tots. This adds a hearty flavor to each bite!
5. Mixing the Egg Mixture:
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until you see a nice, uniform mixture. This will be the delicious binding for our casserole.
6. Pouring the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and tater tots in your baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
7. Cheese Time:
Now, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This is where it gets cheesy and delicious!
8. Baking the Casserole:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and everything is bubbling beautifully.
9. Final Touch:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top, and let it rest for around 5 minutes. The cheese will melt perfectly, making it even more delicious.
10. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some chopped green onions on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Then, simply dig in and enjoy your hearty Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole warm!
This dish is a fantastic way to feed a crowd and is great for meal prep, too. Enjoy your breakfast adventure! 🥔🥚
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots Straight from the Bag?
Absolutely! There’s no need to thaw them before using in the casserole. Just layer them frozen in the baking dish, and they’ll cook perfectly as the casserole bakes!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It might need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven if baked straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage?
You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meatless dish. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole reheats beautifully!
