Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together crispy, golden tater tots, savory sausage, and a fluffy egg mixture all baked into one delicious meal. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for starting the day right with a little bit of everything you love.
I love making this casserole when I have a crowd to feed because it’s so easy to put together and everyone always asks for seconds. One of my favorite things is how the tater tots keep their crispiness on top while the inside stays soft and melty with the sausage and eggs. It feels like a special treat but doesn’t take too much effort, which is a big win in my book.
My go-to way to serve this casserole is with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to brighten up the plate. It’s perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you want a fuss-free dish that tastes like a classic diner breakfast. I always keep leftovers in the fridge because they reheat so well and make an easy, satisfying meal on the go.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater tots: The frozen tater tots give this casserole its crispy top and soft inside. If you can’t find tater tots, small diced frozen potatoes or hashbrowns work well.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage is classic here. I like pork sausage for flavor, but turkey sausage is a leaner swap that still tastes great.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a favorite for its melt and tang. Sharp cheddar adds more punch, but mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack can be used.
Eggs and milk: Eggs bind everything together, making it fluffy and hearty. Whole milk gives richness, but 2% or even a dairy-free milk like oat milk can substitute.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Tater Tot Top?
The key to crispy tater tots on top is not covering the casserole while it bakes. This lets the heat work directly on them, creating a golden crust.
- Start with frozen tots for best texture—they crisp up nicely in the hot oven.
- Arrange them in a single layer without overlapping too much.
- Don’t cover the dish during baking to keep them crisp.
- If they aren’t as crispy as you like, you can broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch carefully so they don’t burn!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like this size because it fits everything evenly and bakes uniformly.
- Large skillet – makes it easy to cook the sausage and onions in one pan without mess.
- Whisk or fork – quick and simple for mixing the eggs and milk mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients like milk, salt, and pepper.
- Slotted spoon – handy for draining excess fat when cooking the sausage.
- Sharp knife – useful for chopping the onion and green onions for garnish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon crumbles for a smoky flavor and extra crunch. It’s great for a breakfast with a twist.
- Add diced bell peppers or shredded zucchini to the egg mixture for some extra veggies and color.
- Mix in some cooked hash browns or diced cooked potatoes instead of tater tots for different textures.
- For a kick of heat, stir in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the egg mixture before baking.
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Then, allow 5 to 10 minutes for cooling before serving. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Preheat:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks later.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots in a single even layer on the bottom of the baking dish. This forms the crispy, golden base.
3. Cook the Sausage and Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage and finely chopped onion. Break the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, drain any extra fat.
4. Add Sausage Layer:
Sprinkle the cooked sausage and onions evenly over the bed of tater tots.
5. Mix the Egg Blend:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until smooth and combined.
6. Pour Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and tater tots in the baking dish.
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of everything.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes to make it easier to serve. Then, sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh burst of flavor.
Enjoy this tasty and comforting breakfast casserole warm with your favorite sides or just as it is!
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Ingredients Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the sausage and chop the onions a day ahead, then store them in the fridge. Assemble the casserole just before baking for fresher results.
Can I Substitute the Sausage with Another Protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even cooked bacon can be used instead of breakfast sausage. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before layering.
How Should I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions. Sauté them lightly before adding to prevent excess moisture.