Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole (Sausage Recipe)

Introduction

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for weekend brunches or holiday mornings. You get the perfect combination of savory sausage, crispy tots, and creamy eggs in every single bite. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, letting you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 8 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1½ cups Colby jack cheese (divided)
• 28 oz frozen tater tots

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage drippings. Cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Remove from heat.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, and pepper until well combined.
5. To assemble, spread the cooked sausage evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked onion and pepper mixture over the sausage. Sprinkle 1 cup of the Colby jack cheese evenly over the top.
6. Carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over everything in the dish.
7. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top of the casserole. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the tater tots.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the egg mixture is fully set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean) and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
9. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Individual Servings: Divide the mixture among greased muffin tins for easy, portion-controlled breakfast cups.
• Spicy Kick: Use spicy breakfast sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
• Crispy Top: For extra crunch, bake the casserole for 15 minutes before adding the tater tots and cheese on top, then finish baking.
• Herb Garnish: Finish the baked casserole with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Success

• Let the cooked sausage and veggie mixture cool slightly before adding the cheese and egg to prevent the cheese from melting too early.
• Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even heating and to prevent the bottom from over-browning.
• Let the casserole rest after baking. This allows the eggs to set fully, making it easier to cut clean slices.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or cover the whole casserole with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. The tater tots will lose some crispiness when reheated.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before. Complete steps 1-6, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, add the frozen tater tots and remaining cheese, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. The Colby jack can be substituted with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend with great results.

What if I don’t have a red bell pepper?

You can use a green bell pepper or omit it entirely. Other additions like sliced mushrooms could be cooked with the onion.

Why is my egg mixture still runny after baking?

This usually means the casserole needs more time. Ovens vary, so cover the top with foil if the tots are getting too dark, and continue baking until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

This recipe is designed for frozen tater tots, which have a specific texture and cook time. Shredded hash browns are a better fresh potato substitute.

Is it necessary to cook the vegetables before baking?

Yes, sautéing them first ensures they soften properly and release their moisture, preventing a watery casserole.