If you are on the lookout for a comforting, hearty breakfast that feels like a warm hug first thing in the morning, look no further than this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe. Bursting with savory sausage, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tater tots on top, this casserole brings together all the best flavors and textures in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a special weekend brunch, this recipe is wonderfully simple to make and promises to delight everyone at the table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe plays an important role — from the spicy sausage that infuses the dish with bold flavor, to the eggs and milk that create a fluffy, custardy base, and of course, the crispy tater tots that provide that sought-after crunch and golden finish.
- 1 pound spicy breakfast sausage: Adds a hearty, spicy kick and savory depth that forms the base flavor.
- 1 onion (diced): Offers sweetness and a pleasant bite to balance the rich sausage.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Introduces a fragrant aroma that elevates the entire casserole.
- 8 large eggs: Bind the casserole together while making it light and fluffy.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the egg mixture creamy and tender.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the dish’s natural flavors without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and seasoning.
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Delivers that irresistible cheesy, melty goodness throughout.
- 16 ounces frozen tater tots (1 bag): Create a crispy, golden crust that’s the star topping of this casserole.
- Chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor for freshness.
How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F while preparing a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics
On medium heat, cook the spicy breakfast sausage along with diced onion until the sausage is thoroughly cooked and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then add minced garlic for an extra minute until the kitchen fills with that signature garlicky goodness. Drain off excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily, then spread this savory mixture evenly in your baking dish.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, kosher salt, and black pepper until combined. This smooth mixture will bind all the ingredients together, creating that custardy texture that makes this casserole truly special.
Step 4: Add the First Layer of Cheese
Sprinkle half of the freshly shredded cheddar cheese—about one cup—over the cooked sausage and onion mixture. This layer melts into the savory base, adding creamy texture and sharp flavor.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture Over
Evenly pour the egg mixture over the sausage and cheese layers, taking care to distribute it so every bite has that fluffy custard element you’re craving.
Step 6: Top With Tater Tots and Remaining Cheese
Now comes the fun part: arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the egg mixture, then sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. You can cover and refrigerate the casserole up to 12 hours before baking, making this a fantastic make-ahead breakfast option.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is fully set and the tater tots are perfectly crispy and golden. Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with chopped fresh chives to brighten the flavors and add a touch of color.
How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling freshly chopped chives or even a handful of green onions provides a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich casserole. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also add a creamy coolness that pairs beautifully with the hot, crispy tater tots.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance or a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. You could also include some warm, buttered toast for the perfect hearty breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve this casserole straight from the baking dish family-style so everyone can dig in. For smaller gatherings, cut it into neat squares and plate with a garnish of fresh herbs and a wedge of fresh orange for a pop of color and brightness. It also works great as a make-ahead brunch dish that you can keep warm in the oven until ready to serve.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe, simply cover and refrigerate any leftovers for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time for a busy morning, assemble it but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the tater tots regain some crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delicious crispy topping intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this casserole?
Yes, you can swap spicy breakfast sausage for mild sausage or even turkey sausage depending on your flavor preference or dietary needs. The casserole will still be delicious but note the flavor profile will adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage or replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative or extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. You can still keep the same great texture and cheese flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely, making the casserole the night before and baking it fresh in the morning is one of the best ways to save time while still serving a warm, comforting meal.
What’s the best cheese to use besides cheddar?
While cheddar offers a sharp, classic flavor, other great options include Monterey Jack for a milder taste or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for gooey stretchiness combined with flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed and added to the sausage mixture to boost nutrition and flavor, making the casserole even heartier and colorful.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe is hands-down one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in your mouth and a cozy morning ritual all in one. It’s easy to put together, customizable, and absolutely satisfying with every bite. I can’t encourage you enough to give this comforting casserole a try — whether it’s for a weekend brunch, holiday morning, or just because. Once you do, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite!
Print
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole combining spicy breakfast sausage, eggs, cheese, and crispy tater tots, perfect for a satisfying morning meal or brunch with family and friends.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound spicy breakfast sausage (bulk or casings removed)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Other
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 16 ounces frozen tater tots (1 bag)
- Chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prep a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook Sausage Mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and diced onion, cooking while breaking up the sausage with a spoon until fully cooked through and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Drain excess grease and transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Add Cheese Over Sausage: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cooked sausage and onion mixture in the baking dish.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over the layered sausage and cheese in the dish, ensuring it is well distributed.
- Top with Tater Tots and Cheese: Arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the egg mixture in a single layer, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. At this stage, the casserole can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 12 hours or baked immediately.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the egg mixture is fully set in the center and the tater tots are golden and crispy on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, optionally garnish with chopped fresh chives, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole the night before by assembling and refrigerating it, then baking it fresh in the morning.
- For a milder flavor, substitute spicy sausage with mild breakfast sausage or turkey sausage.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Chives add a fresh, mild onion flavor as garnish but can be omitted if preferred.
- If you prefer extra crispy tater tots, bake an additional 5-10 minutes after the casserole is set.
