This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Imagine crispy tater tots mixed with savory sausage and cheesy goodness!
It’s so easy to throw together; just layer everything in a dish and bake. I love enjoying leftovers with a hot cup of coffee—it makes mornings feel extra cozy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The foundation of this casserole. Frozen tater tots are convenient, but you can make your own using grated potatoes seasoned and shaped into tots, if you’re feeling adventurous!
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its rich flavor, but turkey sausage is a great lighter option. You can also use vegetarian sausage crumbles if you’re looking for a meatless version.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese provides that classic flavor here. If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or even a Mexican blend for extra spice. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan cheese substitute.
Eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding everything together. If you’re egg-free, you could blend silken tofu or use a commercial egg replacer instead. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture.
How Can I Ensure My Eggs are Perfectly Set?
Getting the eggs just right is key to a successful casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Whisk the eggs with milk and seasonings until well blended. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to pour the egg mixture evenly over the whole casserole. This ensures every bite has that delicious eggy flavor.
- Keep an eye on the bake time. Oven performance can vary, so check the casserole around 40 minutes. It should be puffed and the center shouldn’t jiggle when you gently shake the dish.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit more so you can cut neat squares! Enjoy your cozy breakfast with family or friends!
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), casing removed
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes of bake time. Overall, you’re looking at around 55-60 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for weekend brunch or a hearty breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Open that bag of frozen tater tots and spread them in an even layer across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom well—this is the base of your delicious casserole!
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage and chopped onion. Cook it all together until the sausage is browned and no longer pink. Break the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. If there’s any excess grease, don’t forget to drain it to keep your casserole from being too greasy!
4. Combine the Layers:
Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the mixture evenly over the tater tots in the baking dish. That’s looking tasty already!
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder until everything is well combined and fluffy. This will bring your casserole to life!
6. Pour and Sprinkle:
Now, gently pour the egg mixture over the tater tots and sausage, making sure to cover all the areas. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the whole top. Cheese makes everything better, right?
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 40-45 minutes or until the eggs are set, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You might want to keep an eye on it as it bakes!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. It will help it set a little more. Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a lovely touch!
Enjoy this hearty and delicious Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole with family or friends for a cheerful meal!
Can I Use Fresh Sausage Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh sausage, just be sure to cook it thoroughly in the skillet before adding it to the casserole. Crumble it up as it cooks for even distribution.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Tater Tots?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using hash browns or even cubed sweet potatoes. Just adjust the baking time as necessary, depending on the size and type of potato you use!