Start your day with a hearty Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole that combines crispy tater tots, savory sausage, and creamy cheese. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser at any breakfast table. Its comforting flavors and textures make it a go-to recipe for lazy mornings or special occasions. Serve it warm, and enjoy the delightful crunch of tater tots paired with the rich, cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
– 1 pound breakfast sausage
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 24g of fat, 15g of protein, 21g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the tater tots evenly.
5. Layer the cooked sausage over the tater tots.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and tater tots.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Add the remaining tater tots as a top layer.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily modify this casserole by using turkey sausage instead of pork, or replacing the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sautéed vegetables or plant-based sausage.
Serving and Pairings
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a side of pancakes, or a light salad. You can also serve it with hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soggy.
- Overcrowding the tater tots may prevent them from getting crispy.
- Forgetting to season the egg mixture can lead to blandness.
- Not letting the casserole cool slightly before serving can make it difficult to cut.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or onions in with the sausage.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste.
- Consider adding cooked bacon or ham for additional protein.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time in the morning.
How do I prevent the tater tots from getting soggy?
Ensure that you follow the layering instructions carefully and avoid adding too much liquid to the egg mixture.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
While you can use fresh potatoes, the texture and taste will differ. Tater tots provide a unique crunch that may be hard to replicate.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Consider pairing it with a fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or a light smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to start your day, combining convenience with comfort. Perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekends, it promises to satisfy everyone at the table. With its crispy tater tots and savory filling, it’s sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. Don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the tater tots evenly.
- Layer the cooked sausage over the tater tots.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and tater tots.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the remaining tater tots as a top layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
