Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Whether it is a holiday brunch or a lazy Sunday morning, this Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole has become my go to for feeding a hungry crowd. The golden crisp tater tots create the perfect base for a hearty mix of sausage, eggs, and gooey cheese. This dish is one of those all in one wonders that barely lasts an hour at my table and it is always requested for potlucks and family gatherings.

I first tossed this together for a New Year’s brunch when I needed something filling but easy. Nobody could believe it only took me about ten minutes to assemble from fridge to oven. Now my family practically cheers when they see tater tots and sausage on the counter.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: Provides the hearty and savory base for the casserole. Look for good quality sausage with just enough fat to keep things juicy
• Frozen tater tots: Create a crispy and filling crust. Check for tots that are uniform in size so they cook evenly and crisp up
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives richness and classic flavor. I use sharp cheddar for depth but mild works great too
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds melty stretch and balances the cheddar. Freshly shredded is always best for melting
• Large eggs: Bind everything and make a fluffy filling
• Milk: Keeps the eggs tender and creamy. Whole milk is best but two percent will work
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Boost the flavor without adding chunks. Opt for fresh spices if possible
• Salt: Seasons everything evenly
• Black pepper: Provides a gentle heat. Grind it fresh for the best aroma
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Give optional subtle warmth
• Chopped green onions: Add a fresh finish and a pop of color. Choose firm green stems for the brightest garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Sausage:

Brown the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks so you get small pieces. Let the sausage get deeply browned to intensify its flavor. If you see excess fat in the pan drain it off before continuing

Prepare the Casserole:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat fully. Use a bit of butter or nonstick spray to thoroughly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the bottom making sure there are no big gaps

Make the Egg Mixture:

Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and pour in the milk. Add garlic powder onion powder salt black pepper and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Whisk vigorously until the mixture looks smooth and well combined. This helps the eggs bake up fluffy and even

Layer the Sausage and Cheese:

Scatter the browned sausage evenly over the tater tots. Slowly pour the egg mixture over everything making sure it gets into all the nooks. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses all over the top avoiding big clumps so it melts in an even blanket

Bake:

Slide the baking dish onto the center oven rack and bake for thirty to forty minutes. When the cheese turns golden and bubbly and a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean your casserole is done. If needed cover loosely with foil near the end to prevent over browning

Serve:

Let the casserole cool for at least five minutes before slicing. Garnish with plenty of chopped green onions if desired and serve while hot and gooey

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My favorite part is always the crispy tater tot edge pieces that soak up all the cheesy egg flavor. I remember making this on Christmas morning last year with the kids and we all went back for seconds while still in pajamas.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge and they will stay fresh for up to four days. To reheat use the oven so the topping crisps up again rather than turning soggy in the microwave. If you want to freeze wrap portions individually and thaw overnight before reheating for quick breakfasts all week

Ingredient Substitutions

No breakfast sausage Just use ground turkey ham or even cooked bacon for a different twist. Lactose free cheese or almond milk work for dairy free needs. If you are out of green onions swap in fresh chives or even a scattering of parsley for a pop of freshness

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderful with a scoop of salsa or a dollop of sour cream on top. For a complete brunch plate serve with fresh fruit salad and a simple green salad. It also makes a great breakfast for dinner option when you need something heartier than cereal

Cultural Context

Breakfast casseroles like this are a staple at American Midwestern tables especially for holidays and big family gatherings. The beauty is in their flexibility you can toss in any leftovers and they always come out bubbling and delicious. It is truly a comfort dish that brings everyone together

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This casserole is such a joy to serve with plenty to go around and heaps of happy faces in return.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes, you can assemble everything the night before and refrigerate. Bake in the morning as directed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.

→ Which sausage works best?

Breakfast sausage is classic, but any uncooked pork or turkey sausage works well. Choose mild or spicy to taste.

→ Can I substitute different cheeses?

Certainly! Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss for different flavors. Blend with cheddar for a creamy texture.

→ How do I know when it is done baking?

It's ready when the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables?

Absolutely! Add sautéed peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor before pouring in the eggs.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions as needed.