This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish that mixes crispy tater tots with savory sausage, cheese, and eggs. It’s perfect for starting your day with a smile!
You can bake it all in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. I love to enjoy this dish with a little hot sauce on the side—adds a nice kick! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use pork sausage for a classic taste, but turkey sausage is a great lower-fat option. If you’re looking for a meatless version, consider using vegetarian sausage or crumbled tempeh with spices to mimic the flavor.
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are convenient, but you can also use hash browns if you prefer. Just spread them evenly in the baking dish. For a healthier option, try sweet potato tater tots if you find them!
Cheddar Cheese: While I like sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even vegan cheese if you want a dairy-free alternative. Use different cheeses for added flavor too!
Eggs: This recipe relies on large eggs for structure. If you’re looking to lower the cholesterol, you can substitute some whole eggs with egg whites (2 egg whites = 1 egg). Silken tofu blended can also work as an egg substitute in a pinch.
How Do You Cook the Breakfast Sausage Perfectly?
Cooking the sausage well is key to this casserole’s flavor. To get a nice texture and avoid excess grease, follow these tips:
- Use a medium-high heat to ensure even cooking and browning. Don’t rush – let it cook properly.
- Break the sausage into small crumbles with a spatula as it cooks. This helps it distribute well in the casserole.
- Once cooked, drain excess grease to prevent sogginess. This step is crucial!
How to Make Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), casing removed
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep and assemble your ingredients, and then an additional 45-55 minutes for baking. Total time is about 1 hour, which gives you a delicious filling breakfast casserole that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking later on.
2. Cook the Breakfast Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 8 minutes. After that, drain any excess grease from the sausage and set it aside for later.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Spread half of the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, pour the cooked sausage over the layer of tater tots, making sure to distribute it evenly. After that, sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. Next, add the remaining tater tots on top of the cheese layer.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will help bind all the layers together and add flavor.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered tater tots and sausage in the baking dish. Then, top it off with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the tater tots are golden and crispy on top.
6. Let it Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This short rest will make it easier to cut. Before serving, you can optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy, and satisfying Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole warm!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use pork sausage for a traditional flavor or turkey sausage for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based sausage or crumbled tempeh seasoned with your favorite spices for similar flavors.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pour the egg mixture over the layers right before you’re ready to bake. It may need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a fresh fruit salad or a side of toast for a complete breakfast. A drizzle of hot sauce or ketchup also makes a tasty accompaniment!
