Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe

The Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is an absolute morning game-changer that brings together crispy tater tots, savory sausage, melted cheese, and eggs in one delightful dish. If you love a hearty, comforting breakfast with layers of bold flavors and satisfying textures, this casserole will quickly become your weekend favorite. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy mornings, delivering warmth and joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role to make this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole sing. From the savory sausage to the crispy tater tots and melty cheese, every component brings its own magic to the table.

• Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds sweet, aromatic depth to the sausage mix.
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced: Brings freshness and a subtle crunch.
• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage: Provides savory, seasoned meaty goodness that’s key to flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a punch of warm, aromatic garlicky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds herbaceous notes to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon fine salt, divided: Enhances flavors thoughtfully throughout the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped, divided: Introduces smoky crunch and layers of indulgence.
• 2 cups shredded Colby-Cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese, divided: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy comfort.
• 6 eggs: Bind everything together with a fluffy, tender texture.
• 1 ¼ cups milk of choice (we used 2%): Keeps the eggs creamy and light.
• 1 (28-ounce or two 16-ounce) package frozen tater tots or crispy crowns: The star that creates irresistible crispy potato layers.
• Optional for serving: Sour cream, sliced green onions, hot sauce, additional bacon: Perfect finishing touches to customize your serving.

How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Sausage Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and preparing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray so nothing sticks. Then heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Spray it lightly, and toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and ground breakfast sausage. Cook everything together until the veggies are tender and the sausage is fully cooked, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, half a teaspoon salt, and a quarter teaspoon black pepper to infuse that amazing flavor. Finish this step by mixing in four slices of chopped bacon for a welcome smoky crunch before transferring everything into your baking dish.

Step 2: Add Tater Tots and Cheese

Next, pour one cup of shredded cheese right over your sausage and veggie mixture. Then add your frozen tater tots directly into the baking dish. Toss everything gently so the cheese, tater tots, and sausage get evenly incorporated. This layering is where the magic starts, creating that perfect balance between creamy and crispy with every bite.

Step 3: Combine and Pour the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl or measuring cup, whisk together six eggs and one and a quarter cups of milk until smooth. Season this mixture with the remaining salt and black pepper to build flavor in the custard base. Pour the egg mixture carefully over your tater tot and sausage layers, making sure it seeps into all the nooks and crannies. This ensures the casserole sets nicely and has a luscious texture.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese and the last two slices of chopped bacon evenly on top to create that golden, melty, bacon-studded crown. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes, checking at 25 minutes to avoid overcooking. You want the center to be set and the edges bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 5: Optional Broiling for Extra Crispness

If you love a crispy topping, turn your oven broiler to high and broil the casserole for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch it closely so the cheese turns beautifully golden brown without burning, adding an irresistible finish to your Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole.

How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

Toppings can really elevate the experience, so consider adding a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, sliced green onions for a touch of freshness, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for heat, or sprinkle extra crispy bacon for more smoky goodness. These simple garnishes make every serving feel special and personalized.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit for a bright contrast or a green salad to lighten up the meal. Try some roasted veggies or warm, crusty bread on the side to round out your breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch party, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned servings or layer it in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers. You could also cut it into squares and wrap in foil for an on-the-go option that’s just as delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more, making the next day’s meal just as amazing.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking or after cooling cooked leftovers. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent browning, then uncover near the end for a crisp top.

FAQs

Can I make this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and bacon, and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You could also use plant-based sausage alternatives to keep that savory vibe.

What kind of cheese works best in this casserole?

Colby-Cheddar or Colby-Jack cheeses melt beautifully and offer a mild, creamy flavor that complements the sausage and tater tots perfectly, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like Mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Can I prepare the casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh in the morning, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will come straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Definitely. Just make sure your sausage and seasoning blends are gluten-free, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Tater tots often are safe but always double-check labels.

How do I get a crispy topping without broiling?

To get a crispy top without broiling, bake the casserole uncovered for the full time, and you can even increase the oven temperature slightly during the last 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it browns nicely without burning.

Final Thoughts

The Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to make, endlessly satisfying, and packed with the flavors you crave to start your day right. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own staple for breakfasts, brunches, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones.

Print