Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or meal prepping.
With crispy tater tots, savory sausage, melted cheese, and a rich egg mixture, this casserole is both comforting and delicious.
Easy to make ahead and bake fresh, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for feeding a family or a gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love this Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole because it’s packed with bold flavors and a satisfying texture.
The crispy tater tots add a delightful crunch, while the savory sausage and melted cheese create a rich and comforting bite.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare, perfect for feeding a crowd, and can be made ahead for a hassle-free breakfast or brunch.
Whether for a special occasion or a busy morning, this dish is sure to be a favorite!
Key Ingredients:
Hot Breakfast Sausage: Adds a hearty, savory flavor with a hint of spice.
Frozen Tater Tots: Provide a crispy, golden base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: A perfect blend of melty, gooey goodness.
Eggs & Milk: Create a rich and creamy custard that holds everything together.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Enhance the overall depth of flavor with subtle seasoning.
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
2 lb hot breakfast sausage
1 (30-32oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
8 eggs
2 cups milk
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Heat oven to 350ºF and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles.
Drain excess grease.
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together tater tots, cooked sausage, and cheeses. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk.
Pour evenly over the tater tot mixture.
Optional Step:
Cover and refrigerate if baking later.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 60-70 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes:
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
Customization: Swap the hot sausage for mild or turkey sausage for a different flavor. You can also add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra texture.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or Swiss for a milder, nutty flavor.
Storage & Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
Freezing Instructions: To freeze, bake the casserole first, let it cool, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: ~480 kcal | Protein: ~25g | Carbohydrates: ~28g | Fat: ~32g | Saturated Fat: ~12g | Cholesterol: ~200mg | Sodium: ~900mg | Fiber: ~2g | Sugar: ~3g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator.
When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking.
If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly.
When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use mild, spicy, or even turkey sausage for a leaner option.
You can also substitute cooked bacon or ham for variety.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
Just sauté them before adding them to the mixture to remove excess moisture.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully set, and the center is no longer jiggly.
A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If needed, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I make the casserole without cooking the sausage first?
It’s important to cook the sausage before adding it to the casserole.
This ensures the sausage is fully cooked and helps render out excess fat, preventing the casserole from becoming greasy.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar and mozzarella work well together, you can swap them for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss.
Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary depending on your cheese choice.
Do I need to defrost the tater tots before adding them?
No, you don’t need to thaw the tater tots.
They can go directly from the freezer into the casserole.
They’ll bake up perfectly crisp in the oven.
Can I substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other dairy-free alternative in place of regular milk.
Just ensure that it’s unsweetened and plain to maintain the casserole’s flavor.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, try using spicy breakfast sausage, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, or mixing in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce before baking.
Adjust the spice level to your taste!