Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning, making it ideal for hosting guests or busy mornings.
- Versatility: Suitable for any meal of the day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage
- 1 (30-32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the frozen tater tots, cooked sausage, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tot and sausage mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 to 70 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute the hot breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or gouda for a smoky flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to add more nutrients and color to the dish.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you prefer a spicier casserole.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. To freeze after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it securely and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the hot breakfast sausage with other meats like turkey sausage, chicken sausage, bacon, or even a plant-based sausage alternative.
2. Do I need to thaw the tater tots before using them?
No, you can add the tater tots directly from the freezer into the casserole; they will cook perfectly in the oven.
3. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Absolutely, you can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
4. How can I tell when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set, and the top is golden brown. You can insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
5. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
6. What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are used in this recipe, but you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss to suit your taste.
7. Is it possible to make a smaller portion of this casserole?
Yes, you can halve the ingredients and bake the casserole in a smaller dish to make fewer servings.
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, make-ahead dish featuring savory sausage, crispy tater tots, and cheesy eggs. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this versatile recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage
- 1 (30–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix tater tots, cooked sausage, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour evenly over the tater tot mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 60–70 minutes or until eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let rest before serving.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
- Customization: Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
- Category: : Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
