Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that brings together the best of breakfast in one easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or even a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe is not only satisfying but also highly customizable. Here’s how to create your own Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole that will delight both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
1 (30-32 ounce) bag frozen tater tots
1 pound breakfast sausage (or diced ham, bacon, or a mix)
8 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Optional: Hot sauce for added flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. If using bacon or ham, cook accordingly. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
In the prepared baking dish, layer the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom. Next, add the cooked sausage (or your choice of meat) on top of the tater tots. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over this layer.
Step 5: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add hot sauce to taste.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered tater tots and sausage in the baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Top with the remaining cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps set the casserole for easier serving.
Serving Suggestions
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with various toppings such as:
Fresh chopped herbs (like parsley or chives)
Sliced avocado or guacamole
Salsa or pico de gallo
Extra cheese sprinkled on top before serving
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is its versatility:
Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausage with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for spice or feta for a tangy flavor.
Add-ins: Incorporate additional ingredients like diced tomatoes, green onions, or even jalapeños for extra flavor.
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its comforting flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday brunch or a simple family breakfast! Enjoy!