If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast that combines crispy, golden tater tots with savory sausage and cheesy eggs, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of comfort and flavor that wakes up your taste buds and warms your morning. Whether it’s a busy weekend brunch or a holiday morning with loved ones, this casserole will quickly become your go-to because it’s simple to make, totally satisfying, and packed with ingredients everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe are straightforward but come together to create layers of delicious texture and taste. Each one plays an essential role, from adding savory depth to creamy richness and that irresistible crispy topping.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Gives the casserole a hearty, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the sausage.
- 8 large eggs: The foundation that binds everything together with a rich, custardy texture.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the eggs tender and moist throughout baking.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds extra creaminess to make every bite luxurious and soft.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts throughout for that gooey, cheesy deliciousness everyone craves.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory complexity just enough to make your mouth water.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice to awaken the dish.
- 1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots: The star of the show, providing a crunchy, golden crust that’s pure comfort food magic.
How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cook the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage along with the diced onion. Keep stirring until the sausage is beautifully browned and the onions are soft and sweet. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set it aside. This step is essential because it infuses the base of the casserole with deep, savory flavor and ensures no greasy aftertaste.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create the custardy interior of your casserole, so it’s important to whisk until everything is fully combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy topping.
Step 3: Combine Sausage and Cheese with Egg Mixture
Next, stir the cooked sausage and onion mixture into the egg blend. Then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The cheese melts during baking creating gooey pockets of ooey-gooey goodness throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour this delicious mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then carefully arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, covering the entire surface. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set in the center, and the tater tots have turned a golden, crispy brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing—it allows the casserole to firm up for neat servings.
How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can brighten the rich, hearty casserole. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or green onions on top for a burst of color and mild onion flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce also complements the savory layers perfectly and adds a fun little zing.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider serving the casserole alongside light, fresh sides like mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette or fresh fruit salad. Something crisp and refreshing counters the richness beautifully, making your breakfast feel balanced and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, serve portions of the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a few extra tater tots for a charming presentation. Alternatively, create a breakfast buffet where guests can customize their toppings—from diced avocado to salsa, letting everyone add their own flair to the Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole tastes fantastic cold or reheated, making it a perfect next-day breakfast or quick snack.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prep ahead for busy mornings. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, microwave portions on medium heat, but the oven keeps the tater tots nice and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use bacon or ham instead of sausage?
Absolutely! Bacon or ham make great alternatives and add their own unique flavor. Cook them thoroughly before mixing into the egg base for best results.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added to increase the nutritional value and bring in fresh flavors. Just sauté veggies before mixing them with the eggs and sausage.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the sausage and use a meat-free substitute or extra veggies like mushrooms and peppers. You won’t lose any comfort with these swaps.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar cheese works wonderfully for its flavor and meltability, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend to suit your taste.
How far ahead can I prepare this casserole?
You can assemble the whole casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge. When ready, just bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings a little joy, comfort, and ease to your morning routine. It’s flexible, flavorful, and fuss-free, making it perfect for everything from casual weekends to special occasions. I promise once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation. So grab those tater tots and get ready to enjoy this cozy, cheesy, crispy delight!
Print
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Packed with savory breakfast sausage, creamy eggs, and crispy tater tots, this casserole combines comfort and convenience for an easy make-ahead meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook sausage and onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage and diced onion until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Drain excess grease and set this mixture aside to cool slightly.
- Mix eggs and seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine ingredients: Stir the cooked sausage and onion mixture into the egg mixture. Then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then arrange the frozen tater tots in a single even layer on top of the egg mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are completely set, and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing into 8 servings. Serve warm, enjoying the crispy tater tots with the cheesy sausage egg base.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated until ready to bake for added convenience.
- Swap sausage for bacon or ham to customize protein options.
- Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or other vegetables to boost flavor and nutrition.
- Use a non-stick or well-greased baking dish to make serving easier.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with reduced-fat dairy products.
