Name: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: Unforgettable 15-Min Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488014H24M2S
Total time: PT-488014H24M2S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 oz frozen tater tots; 1 lb breakfast sausage; 10 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion; 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder; 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish); Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon butter; 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)

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Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole has become my ultimate weekend comfort food, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! I remember the first time I made this hearty breakfast bake; the aroma of savory sausage, melty cheese, and perfectly crispy tater tots filling my kitchen was pure bliss. It’s so satisfying to serve a crowd-pleasing dish that’s also incredibly simple to put together. This breakfast casserole with tater tots is truly a game-changer for busy mornings or lazy brunches. You’ll find this an easy tater tot breakfast casserole to love. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This breakfast casserole is a guaranteed hit for so many reasons. Here’s why it’s become a family favorite:

Incredible Taste: It’s the ultimate comfort food, packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and a delicious cheesy topping.
Quick Prep Time: You can have this ready for the oven in just about 15 minutes of active prep.
Family-Approved: Even picky eaters adore this hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a universally loved dish!
Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Cheesy Goodness: Who can resist a cheesy tater tot breakfast casserole? The blend of cheddar and mozzarella is pure perfection.
Versatile: It’s fantastic for weekend brunches, busy weekday mornings (thanks to meal prep!), or potlucks.
Simply Delicious: The combination of crispy tater tots and a creamy, savory egg base makes this a truly memorable meal.
Easy to Customize: This cheesy tater tot breakfast casserole is a perfect base for adding your favorite veggies or different cheeses.

Ingredients for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Gathering your tater tot breakfast casserole ingredients is the first step to breakfast perfection. You’ll need the basics for that savory, creamy filling and of course, the star of the show – the tater tots! Here’s what to have on hand:

32 oz frozen tater tots – keep them frozen until ready to bake for maximum crispiness.
1 lb breakfast sausage – choose your favorite, whether it’s mild, hot, or maple.
10 large eggs – the binder for our delicious casserole.
1 cup whole milk – adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture.
1/2 cup heavy cream – for an extra decadent, creamy texture.
1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion – adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper – for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – because everything is better with garlic!
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – for that classic, sharp cheesy flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional) – adds extra gooeyness and a mild, creamy taste.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – for a little warmth.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a subtle smoky note.
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder – a secret ingredient for a little tang.
2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) – for a fresh, bright finish.
Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon butter – to prepare your baking dish.
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional) – if you like a little kick!

How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Making this delicious breakfast bake is surprisingly straightforward, and I promise the results are absolutely worth it. You’ll be amazed at how easily this breakfast casserole with tater tots comes together, making it perfect for any morning.

Step 1: Let’s get started by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good coating with cooking spray or a touch of butter. This ensures our casserole won’t stick.
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the 1 lb breakfast sausage over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. Now, toss in the 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion and 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper. Sauté these veggies until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just another 30 seconds until fragrant – you’ll smell that amazing aroma! Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the 10 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Make sure they’re well combined. Stir in the 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder, and 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce if you like a little kick. This is how you make tater tot breakfast casserole truly shine!
Step 4: Spread the savory sausage and veggie mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle about 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese and all of the 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (if you’re using it) over the sausage. Now for the fun part: arrange the 32 oz frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over everything, ensuring it gets into all the nooks and crannies. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes. You’re looking for the eggs to be fully set in the center and the tater tots to turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy. If the cheese on top starts to brown too quickly before the casserole is set, don’t worry! Just tent the dish loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Once it’s done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before garnishing with the thinly sliced 2 green onions. This resting time is crucial for the casserole to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your amazing how to make tater tot breakfast casserole creation!

Pro Tips for the Best Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Want to elevate your breakfast game? These tips will ensure your tater tot breakfast casserole is absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few tricks that make a huge difference in flavor and texture, making this dish a true standout.

Keep your frozen tater tots frozen until the very last minute before baking. This is key for achieving that signature crispy, golden topping.
Don’t overcook the sausage or veggies in Step 2. You want them tender, not mushy, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
For an extra creamy casserole, ensure your eggs, milk, and cream are well-whisked together, creating a smooth base for the tater tots.
If you’re making this for a crowd, consider using a larger baking dish or two smaller ones to ensure even cooking.

What’s the secret to perfect tater tot breakfast casserole?

The secret to the best tater tot breakfast casserole is all about balance: keeping the tater tots crispy while ensuring the egg mixture is custardy and fully set. Using a combination of milk and cream for the egg base adds richness, and not overmixing the ingredients keeps the texture light. For more tips on achieving perfect breakfast dishes, check out these breakfast ideas.

Can I make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for making ahead. Assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or as an tater tot breakfast casserole overnight option. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?

A common pitfall is soggy tater tots – avoid this by keeping them frozen until baking and ensuring they’re not submerged too deeply in the egg mixture. Another mistake is not letting the casserole rest after baking; this allows it to set up, preventing it from falling apart when you serve. Proper resting is a key technique in many baked dishes.

Best Ways to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This hearty Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is so versatile, it’s perfect for almost any occasion! For a relaxed weekend morning, I love serving it alongside fresh fruit salad and some crispy bacon. It’s a truly satisfying way to kick off a leisurely tater tot breakfast casserole brunch. If you’re serving it for a casual get-together, a simple green salad or some black beans makes a great accompaniment.

It also holds up beautifully as a make-ahead meal, meaning you can have a delicious breakfast ready for busy weekdays. Just slice and reheat a portion whenever you need a quick, comforting bite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy that homemade taste even when you’re short on time! For more make-ahead meal inspiration, explore these meal prep ideas.

Nutrition Facts for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This hearty breakfast casserole is a satisfying way to start your day. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving, so you know what you’re fueling up with:

Calories: 430cal
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Understanding nutrition can be complex; resources like the USDA’s guide to nutrition can be helpful.

How to Store and Reheat Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic candidate for tater tot breakfast casserole meal prep, meaning you can enjoy it all week long! Once baked, let the casserole cool completely on a wire rack. This usually takes about 30-60 minutes. Properly cooled leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for a single serving is to microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier texture, especially if reheating a larger portion, I recommend using your oven or toaster oven. Place a slice or two on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the tater tots regain some crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

What is Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?

A Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, layered breakfast dish featuring a savory mix of eggs, meat, vegetables, and cheese, all topped with a layer of crispy tater tots. It’s the ultimate comfort food for brunch or any morning meal.

Can I make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole for a crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd. A standard 9×13 inch baking dish typically serves 8-10 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. For an even larger group, you can easily double the recipe and use two baking dishes.

What are the best tater tots to use for this casserole?

You can use any standard frozen tater tots you find at the grocery store. Keeping them fully frozen until you’re ready to bake is crucial for achieving that delicious, crispy golden-brown topping that makes this breakfast bake so special.

Can I add other vegetables to this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?

Yes, feel free to customize! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, corn, or even diced zucchini are great additions. Just make sure to cook down any watery vegetables like spinach before adding them to the casserole to avoid a soggy texture.

Variations of Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole You Can Try

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is incredibly versatile, and I love playing around with different additions to keep things exciting! It’s easy to adapt for various dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are a few of my favorite sausage tater tot breakfast casserole variations and other ideas:

Vegetarian Delight: For a delicious tater tot breakfast casserole vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage. Instead, sauté some mushrooms, spinach, and maybe a little diced zucchini or bell pepper with the onions and garlic. The veggies add a wonderful earthy flavor and texture.
Spicy Chorizo Kick: Swap out the breakfast sausage for spicy chorizo. It adds a fantastic depth of flavor and a pleasant heat that pairs wonderfully with the cheese and eggs.
Hash Brown Swap: If you can’t find tater tots or want a slightly different texture, frozen hash browns work well! Just be sure to thaw them and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before layering them on top for crispiness.
Cheesy Fiesta: Mix in some diced jalapeños or green chilies with the onions and peppers for a Tex-Mex twist. Pepper jack cheese is also a fantastic addition here!

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