This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty morning treat! Packed with crispy tater tots, flavorful sausage, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
What’s better than breakfast in one dish? Not much, if you ask me! I just pop it in the oven and enjoy the yummy smells while it cooks. Perfect for sleepy mornings or brunch with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are the star here. They offer a crispy texture and contribute to the comfort of the casserole. If you prefer, you can use hash browns instead for a different twist.
Breakfast Sausage: I enjoy using pork sausage for its rich flavor, but turkey sausage works great too if you want a leaner option. You can also try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Eggs: Large eggs are the foundation for this dish. If you’re short on eggs, you can use egg substitutes, though the texture might vary slightly. I usually stick with the classic eggs for the best results.
Milk: I use whole milk for a creamier casserole, but any milk or dairy alternative (like almond or oat milk) will also work. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if using a plant-based option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor punch. You can substitute any melting cheese, such as Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses for added creaminess.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Sausage for My Casserole?
Cooking the sausage properly enhances the flavor of your casserole. Here’s how to make sure it’s done just right:
- Heat: Start with a medium heat. Too high, and it can burn before fully cooking.
- Break It Up: As the sausage cooks, break it into small pieces with a spatula. This ensures it cooks evenly and allows more flavor to spread throughout the casserole.
- Check for Doneness: Cook the sausage until it’s browned and no longer pink inside, about 7-10 minutes. If using turkey sausage, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Draining Grease: If there’s excess fat, drain it off. This prevents the casserole from becoming greasy and keeps it light.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll enrich the flavor of your casserole, making it a delightful dish everyone will enjoy!
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 45-55 minutes to bake. Total, you’re looking at just over an hour before it’s ready to slice and serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly. While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Spread half of the frozen tater tots across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will form a crispy base for your casserole.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. If you’re using onion, add it to the skillet during the last few minutes to soften it up. Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep things from getting too greasy.
4. Assemble the Layers:
Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage evenly over the tater tots in the baking dish.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder and smoked paprika together until everything is well combined. This mixture adds fluffiness and flavor to the casserole.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and tater tots in your dish. Make sure to spread it out so every bite will be delicious!
7. Add More Tater Tots and Cheese:
Top the casserole with the remaining tater tots and sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This will create a wonderfully cheesy crust.
8. Baking:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set and the top is golden and crispy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before slicing it up. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious breakfast creation!
This hearty casserole is perfect for breakfast or brunch any day of the week! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of breakfast sausage, including pork, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
What If I Don’t Have Milk? Can I Substitute It?
Yes! You can substitute milk with any non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, just make sure it’s unsweetened. You can also use cream for a richer flavor, but reduce the quantity slightly to avoid making the dish too heavy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just take it out about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed. This is great for meal prep or brunch gatherings!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to retain moisture.