This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a fun and tasty way to start your day! It has crispy tater tots, savory sausage, and gooey cheese all baked together for a hearty meal.
It’s like breakfast in a dish that everyone will love. Plus, who can resist the charm of crispy tots? I whip this up when I want something easy and delicious. Perfect for sharing, or keeping all to myself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the dish! If you don’t have tater tots, you can use hash browns instead. Just make sure they’re frozen for the best texture.
Breakfast Sausage: I like using bulk sausage for flavor, but you can swap in turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Eggs: Eight large eggs are perfect for binding everything together. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you could use a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor. If you prefer something milder, try Monterey Jack or a cheese blend. You could also use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.
Milk: I use whole milk for creaminess, but feel free to replace it with almond milk or any milk you have on hand.
How Do You Get the Eggs Just Right in the Casserole?
Getting the eggs perfectly set is crucial for a great casserole. Here’s how:
- Make sure your oven is preheated before putting the casserole in.
- Mix the eggs thoroughly with the milk and seasonings. This helps incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
- Keep an eye on the bake time; if the edges start browning too quickly, you can cover with foil until set.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting—it will firm up as it sits.
Following these tips will help ensure you have a delicious, well-cooked breakfast casserole that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!
How to Make Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) package frozen tater tots
- 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll bake it for 45-50 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 5 minutes before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a weekend brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take out a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Tater Tots:
Next, spread the frozen tater tots in an even layer on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom fully, as this will create a delicious crust for your casserole.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the bulk breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess grease and set aside.
4. Layer the Sausage:
Once the sausage is ready, sprinkle it evenly over the layer of tater tots, making sure to distribute it so every bite gets some sausage goodness!
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and onion powder (optional). Mix it well until everything is combined.
6. Combine and Pour:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers of sausage and tater tots. This will help everything stick together as it bakes.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the egg mixture, covering it well for that ooey-gooey finish!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the egg is fully set, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. This helps it firm up a bit for easier slicing. Then, cut it into squares and serve warm.
10. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a splash of color and extra flavor!
Enjoy this comforting and hearty breakfast casserole packed with crispy tater tots, savory sausage, and melted cheese—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage Instead of Bulk Sausage?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage! Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Cook it in a skillet until browned and crumbled, just like you would with bulk sausage.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh, mushrooms, or a plant-based sausage. Just season well to ensure great flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole Before Baking?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
