Name: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots; 1 pound breakfast sausage; 8 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray (for greasing the dish)

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If you’re looking for a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a big hug on a plate, this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine crispy, golden tater tots layered with savory sausage and a rich blend of cheddar cheeses, all held together with fluffy, perfectly seasoned eggs. It’s an easy, make-ahead dish that’s pure breakfast magic, perfect for busy mornings, casual brunches, or even holiday gatherings where everyone’s asking for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A red and purple bag of Ore-Ida Golden Tater Tots sits on a white marbled surface, surrounded by cooking ingredients. There are six brown eggs in a cardboard carton to the right, two clear glass shakers filled with black pepper and salt next to the eggs. Below them is a small white pitcher of cream. To the left, a strip of raw bacon is laid on white paper, next to a small white bowl filled with thick white sour cream and another small white bowl heaped with shredded bright orange cheddar cheese. The colors are warm and the textures range from smooth liquid to crumbly cheese and rough bacon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color, making the final dish irresistibly good with simple pantry staples.

Frozen tater tots (32 oz): These bring the signature crispy, golden base that everyone loves.
Breakfast sausage (1 pound): Adds a hearty, savory depth that complements the mild eggs and cheese.
Large eggs (8): The binding agent that holds all the flavors together while giving the casserole a soft, fluffy texture.
Milk (1 cup): Lightens the eggs for a creamy, tender finish without weighing down the dish.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings sharp, melty goodness that’s essential for that gooey, cheesy appeal.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (½ cup): Adds a creamy, mild contrast to the cheddar’s bite.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Gives a subtle kick that wakes up your taste buds.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic undertones.
Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds sweetness and depth, elevating the savory profile.
Butter or cooking spray (1 tablespoon): For greasing the dish to ensure perfect, golden edges and easy cleanup.

How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and that the edges become beautifully crisp.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a medium skillet set over medium heat, brown your breakfast sausage until it’s fully cooked and nicely caramelized. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily, but keep that savory flavor locked in.

Step 3: Layer the Tater Tots

Arrange your frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. These crispy rounds will form a delicious crust that holds everything together while adding a wonderful crunch.

Step 4: Add the Sausage and Cheese

Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the tater tots, then generously cover with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This melty cheese layer blankets the sausage and tater tots with ooey-gooey goodness.

Step 5: Mix the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well combined. This mix will soak into the layers, uniting all those savory components with every bite.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring all areas are evenly covered. Pop the whole thing into the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, until the center is set and the top is perfectly golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps it settle nicely, making it easier to slice and allowing the flavors to fully develop. Then, dig in and enjoy the comforting magic of your Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe!

How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

The perfect garnish adds a fresh pop to balance the richness of your casserole. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley on top to brighten the dish, or add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.

Side Dishes

Complement your casserole with a simple mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast or fresh fruit like melon and berries to lighten the meal. Toasted English muffins or warm biscuits are also fantastic accompaniments that soak up any leftover eggy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets to give each person their own little personalized breakfast feast. You can also sprinkle in diced bell peppers or jalapeños during assembly to add color and a flavorful punch that makes the dish truly your own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your home-cooked masterpiece, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for an equally delicious next-day breakfast.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy, about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, though reheating in the oven helps maintain the wonderful crispy edges and melty cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, meat-free option that’s just as satisfying.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

You can, but it requires extra prep. Par-cook diced or shredded potatoes until tender and slightly crispy before layering to achieve that classic tater tot crunch and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients in the Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always check your sausage brand to ensure no gluten-containing fillers are included.

Can I add veggies to this casserole?

Definitely! Diced onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, or even spinach can be folded in for extra nutrition, color, and flavor without overpowering the comforting essence of the dish.

How early can I assemble the casserole before baking?

This casserole is perfect for make-ahead prep and can be assembled the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake fresh the next morning for a fuss-free breakfast.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of slicing into a warm, cheesy, and savory breakfast bake that brings everyone to the table with smiles. The Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe is a foolproof way to start your day with comfort and flavor, whether it’s a special weekend brunch or a busy weekday morning you want to keep easy and satisfying. Give this delightful casserole a try, and enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness that only tater tots and sausage can deliver!