Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and hearty breakfast or brunch dish that combines crispy tater tots, savory sausage, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese. This all-in-one casserole is easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a weekend breakfast or making a simple family meal, this casserole will become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Hearty and filling: Tater tots, sausage, eggs, and cheese come together for a satisfying and complete meal.
Easy to make: With minimal prep and just one dish to bake, this casserole is quick to put together.
Great for meal prep: Make it ahead of time, and reheat for a quick breakfast during the week.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

Frozen tater tots: The crispy base of the casserole, providing a satisfying texture.
Breakfast sausage: A flavorful sausage that adds a savory and hearty element to the casserole.
Eggs: The binder of the casserole, creating a custard-like texture when baked.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy, melty layer that complements the other ingredients.
Milk: Helps to make the eggs fluffy and moist.
Onion: Adds flavor and depth to the casserole.
Bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the casserole.

Optional Garnishes:

Green onions: Chopped, for a fresh and crisp garnish.
Hot sauce: For a spicy kick if desired.
Sour cream: For a creamy topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Layer the tater tots evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and sautéed onion and bell pepper over the tater tots. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Cut into squares and serve with optional garnishes such as green onions, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Servings: 8
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 205mg
Sodium: 640mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 15g

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it according to the instructions.

Q2: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A2: Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage if preferred. The flavor will vary, but it will still be delicious.

Q3: Can I use frozen bell peppers or onions instead of fresh?
A3: Yes, frozen bell peppers and onions can be used. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.

Q4: Can I make this casserole without meat?
A4: Yes, you can omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make a vegetarian version of this casserole.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
A5: Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q6: Can I add other ingredients to customize this casserole?
A6: Yes! Feel free to add extra ingredients like cooked bacon, ham, or your favorite veggies such as spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms.

Q7: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A7: Yes, you can substitute the shredded cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

Q8: How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
A8: The casserole is done when the eggs are set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should also be golden brown and slightly bubbly.

Q9: Can I make this casserole without eggs?
A9: Yes, you can substitute eggs with a vegan egg replacer or a mixture of tofu and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, egg-free version.

Q10: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A10: Add some diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or use spicy sausage to give the casserole a kick of heat.

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory, cheesy, and crispy elements in every bite. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy!