Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly breakfast bake layered with crispy tater tots, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or any morning when you need a comforting and filling meal.
This casserole has it all, crunchy potato bites on top, creamy eggs in the middle, and a delicious sausage and cheese blend throughout. It’s easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage and diced onion until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread cooked sausage mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Pour egg mixture evenly over sausage and cheese.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until eggs are set and tater tots are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh chives or parsley. Serve hot.
Variations
- Southwest Style: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Bacon Lover’s Version: Add crumbled bacon along with sausage or instead of it.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.
Cooking Notes
- Keep tater tots frozen before baking for the crispiest texture.
- Use half-and-half if you prefer a lighter custard.
- Bake uncovered so the tots brown nicely.
- Let casserole rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fresh fruit salad or sliced melon.
- Add toast, biscuits, or English muffins on the side.
- Serve with coffee or orange juice for a complete brunch spread.
Tips
- Shred cheese from a block for smoother melting.
- Double the recipe for larger crowds, use a bigger baking dish.
- Freeze baked portions individually for grab-and-go breakfasts.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispy tots.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 8 servings)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make tater tot breakfast casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, bake first, cool completely, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Q3: Can I use turkey sausage?
- Absolutely, turkey sausage keeps it lighter but still flavorful.
Q4: Do I have to thaw tater tots first?
- No, use frozen tater tots for the best crispy topping.
Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?
- Yes, skip the sausage and load it with vegetables instead.
Conclusion
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a cheesy, hearty, and satisfying breakfast bake that’s perfect for family brunches, holidays, or busy mornings. With crispy tater tots, savory sausage, eggs, and gooey cheese, it’s comfort food at its best. Easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, this recipe is guaranteed to become a breakfast favorite in your home.