This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty morning treat! It’s packed with crispy tater tots, savory sausage, and lots of cheese to make it so comforting.
The best part? You can prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. Perfect for sleepyheads like me who need an easy breakfast solution! 😴🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the dish! If you want to try something different, you can use frozen hash browns or even homemade tater tots if you’re feeling adventurous.
Breakfast Sausage: I like using a mild sausage, but spicy adds a nice kick! You can also substitute with turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, while mozzarella creates a nice gooey texture. If you want to go vegan, try using a dairy-free cheese blend.
Eggs: For a fluffier casserole, use large eggs. You can replace some eggs with egg whites or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for a lower-cholesterol option.
Onion: Chopped onions add flavor, but if you’re not a fan, they can be omitted. Alternatively, use green onions for a milder taste.
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole is Cooked Perfectly?
To get that perfectly cooked casserole, a couple of steps are vital. First, ensure the tater tots are spread evenly, as they form the base. Second, make sure the egg mixture covers everything well. This step helps everything cook through nicely!
- Use a large skillet for the sausage, as it allows for better browning. Drain the grease for a less greasy casserole.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the middle—if it comes out clean, it’s ready. If you notice the edges browning too much, cover with foil for the last part of baking.
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 45-55 minutes to bake. All in all, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 10 minutes until you’re serving up warm squares of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks later.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Evenly spread the frozen tater tots over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, making sure they’re all snug together for a nice base.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. If you’re using onions, add them to the pan for extra flavor. Cook it all, breaking up the sausage with a spatula, until everything is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of tater tots. This delicious mixture will be the heart of your casserole!
5. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s well mixed and smooth.
6. Pour it On:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the sausage and tater tots. Take your time to ensure it covers everything evenly, so every bite is flavorful!
7. Add the Cheeses:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Can you smell the goodness already?
8. Bake It:
Pop that baking dish in the oven (make sure to keep an eye on it!) and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. It’s done when the casserole is set in the middle and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up a bit more, making it easier to cut into squares for serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm, and pair it with fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious and hearty Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole! It’s perfect for brunch or any leisurely morning. 😊
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning without needing to thaw. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Breakfast Sausage?
If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage are great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled plant-based sausage or even sautéed vegetables for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or bake until warmed through. Just add a splash of milk to keep it moist when reheating!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole! Just assemble it and cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to bake, it’s best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Cooked leftover casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months.