If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting breakfast that can easily feed a crowd or become your weekend favorite, look no further than this Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe. Combining crispy golden tater tots, savory breakfast sausage, and a rich, cheesy egg custard, this dish brings together all the best flavors and textures in one irresistible baking dish. Whether you’re serving brunch to family or want an easy make-ahead breakfast, this casserole is pure magic from first bite to last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, yet each plays a critical role in making the casserole perfectly balanced in flavor and texture. From the crispy tater tots that add crunch to the cheesy sausage layer and fluffy egg base, every component shines through.
- Frozen tater tots (32 oz bag): These form the crispy, comforting base that’s both easy to use and delightfully crunchy once baked.
- Breakfast sausage (1 lb, cooked and crumbled): Adds a savory, meaty richness that complements the mild eggs and potatoes perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully to bind the layers together, giving a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Large eggs (6): The heart of the custard, providing structure and that soft, fluffy texture that holds everything in place.
- Milk (2 cups): Lightens the eggs and ensures the casserole is moist and tender throughout.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Infuses delicate, savory notes without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the egg mixture.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional): Fresh garnish to brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
How to Make Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will come out flawlessly once baked. This step sets the stage for all the layers you’re about to assemble.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Place the frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of your prepared dish. Because they’re frozen, there’s no need to thaw, which saves time and keeps them crispier in the finished product. Next, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage evenly over the tots, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering creates a beautiful combination of textures and flavors in every slice.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This egg custard will soak into the tots and sausage layers, binding everything together while baking into a fluffy, golden crust.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
Pour the egg mixture evenly over your layered casserole. Make sure it seeps into the gaps between the tots and sausage for even cooking. Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is a gorgeous golden color. Your kitchen will be filled with an inviting aroma that makes waiting almost impossible!
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to set fully and make slicing easier. For an added burst of freshness and color, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving hot to your eager guests or family.
How to Serve Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions add a perfect touch of color and a mild, fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole. These garnishes elevate the dish’s presentation and add a bit of brightness to each bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole is filling on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad. You could also serve it alongside a simple yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast spread that offers sweetness and crunch alongside your savory dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch buffet, cut the casserole into neat squares and serve on a large platter with small bowls of salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce for guests to customize. Or opt for individual ramekins if you want a fancy, personalized touch. It’s a versatile recipe that fits casual or festive occasions with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. Stored properly in an airtight container, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings.
Freezing
This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place portions in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you want a quick breakfast, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or place the whole dish in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This retains the casserole’s texture better than microwaving the whole dish cold.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of breakfast sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works as a leaner alternative and still pairs wonderfully with the crispy tots and cheese. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before layering.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly in the fridge overnight. When ready, bake as directed the next morning. This saves precious time on busy mornings.
What can I use if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
Sharp cheddar is ideal but you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste, pepper jack for heat, or even a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
Is it okay to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
While you can use diced fresh potatoes, keep in mind that tater tots provide a unique crispy texture that’s hard to replicate. If using fresh potatoes, par-cook or roast them well beforehand for the best results.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free sausage and confirm that your tater tots are gluten-free (some brands include wheat flour).
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe truly transforms simple ingredients into a joyful breakfast experience that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re feeding a bunch of hungry mouths or treating yourself to a cozy brunch, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious morning dish perfect for feeding a crowd. It combines crispy frozen tater tots, savory breakfast sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a seasoned egg custard baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and loaded with comforting flavors, this casserole makes a wonderful weekend breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients
Tater Tot Layer
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Sausage Layer
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
Cheese Layer
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top the tater tots with the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, then evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Assemble & Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is a golden brown color.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, then serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
- You can use turkey sausage as a leaner alternative to breakfast sausage.
- If you prefer a different cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella work well.
- Make sure the sausage is fully cooked before layering to ensure food safety.
- This casserole can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered in the oven until warmed through.
- For extra crispiness, you can bake the tater tots separately for 10 minutes before layering.
