This tasty casserole combines crispy tater tots, savory sausage, and creamy gravy all in one dish. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings!
I love how easy it is to throw together on a busy morning. Just layer, bake, and enjoy! Plus, who wouldn’t want to dig into those crispy, golden tots? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are the base of this dish, offering a crispy texture. If you prefer homemade, you can make your own from shredded potatoes, but the convenience of frozen is unbeatable!
Ground Breakfast Sausage: This ingredient adds delicious flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage. They work great too!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for extra flavor. If you want to mix it up, consider Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for different tastes. Vegan cheese is an option for a dairy-free version.
Whole Milk: This creates a rich gravy. If you need a lower-fat option, use skim milk or a non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, although the taste may slightly change.
How Do I Ensure My Gravy Is Smooth and Creamy?
There’s nothing worse than lumpy gravy! Here’s how to get it right:
- After cooking the sausage, sprinkle the flour and stir it in. This helps absorb the fat and create a roux.
- When adding milk, do it slowly and whisk continuously. This is key to achieving a smooth mixture.
- Keep stirring as it cooks to prevent lumps. If you do end up with lumpy gravy, a quick blend with an immersion blender can fix it!
How to Make Sausage Gravy Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to bake. So in total, expect about 45 minutes to create this delicious breakfast dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This will form the crispy base of your casserole.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked. Be sure to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease for a cleaner dish.
4. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir well to combine. Cook this for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Then, gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Keep stirring it as it thickens for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Gravy:
Once thickened, add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. Give it a good stir to combine all the flavors!
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the cooked sausage gravy evenly over the layer of tater tots in your baking dish. It’s okay if it looks a bit messy; it will all come together as it bakes!
7. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the gravy. More cheese is always a good idea, right?
8. Bake:
Place your dish in the oven and bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly while the tater tots become nice and crispy.
9. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, remove your casserole from the oven. If you’d like, garnish it with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot and enjoy this hearty breakfast treat!
This Sausage Gravy Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a comforting family breakfast. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can make homemade tater tots. Just grate or finely chop potatoes, season with salt and pepper, shape them into tots, and then bake or fry until golden. Keep in mind that they may need a slightly different cooking time.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Simply layer it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
Feel free to mix it up! You can add cooked veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. For a different protein, try using crumbled bacon or diced ham, or even go meatless with a plant-based sausage.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
