Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a breakfast lover’s dream. It combines the crispy crunch of tater tots with rich, creamy eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, and hearty breakfast sausage. The best part is how customizable it is—you can add extra ingredients like veggies or different types of cheese, making it easy to cater to your personal taste. Plus, it’s simple to assemble and bakes up perfectly every time, making it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups breakfast sausage
• Salt and pepper
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 cups frozen Tater Tots
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

To serve:

• Fresh pepper
• Herbs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Monterrey Jack cheese, whole milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the frozen tater tots in an even layer at the bottom.
5. Sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage evenly over the tater tots.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the tater tots and sausage, spreading it out evenly.
7. Top with sharp cheddar cheese and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
9. To serve, garnish with fresh pepper and herbs of your choice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Veggie-packed: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the sausage mixture before adding it to the casserole for a veggie boost.
• Cheese swap: Use different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda to customize the flavor profile.
• Meatless version: Swap the breakfast sausage for crumbled plant-based sausage or skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy twist: Add some diced jalapeños to the sausage or sprinkle chili flakes over the casserole before baking for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. You can check by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if needed.

Can I freeze this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

How do I add more flavor to the casserole?

You can season the eggs with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley, or add garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the sausage mixture to enhance the flavor.

What if I don’t have Monterrey Jack cheese?

You can substitute with other mild cheeses like mozzarella or provolone, or even cheddar for an extra sharp flavor.

Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?

Frozen tater tots are ideal for this recipe because they provide the crispy texture that complements the creamy eggs and sausage. Fresh ones may not work the same way in this casserole.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover casserole will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this casserole without milk?

Yes, you can omit the milk or substitute with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk. The casserole will still be delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free breakfast sausage and ensure that the tater tots are gluten-free, this casserole can be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food to start your day right. With its combination of crispy tater tots, savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for prepping ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a brunch, this casserole is sure to impress!

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