Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Breakfast
Introduction
A warm, hearty breakfast is the best way to start the day, and nothing beats a delicious Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines the crispy texture of tater tots with flavorful sausage, melty cheese, and a rich, creamy egg mixture to create the perfect breakfast or brunch dish. Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is an excellent choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this a hassle-free recipe.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the crispy, cheesy goodness.
- Customizable: You can easily add or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: This casserole stores well and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb. bulk ground breakfast sausage
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 lbs. frozen tater tots
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Sausage Mixture
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. When the sausage is halfway cooked, add diced onions and bell peppers. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the vegetables are soft. Drain any excess grease and set the mixture aside.
Assemble the Casserole
Arrange a single layer of frozen tater tots at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and half of the pepper jack cheese over the tater tots. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Spoon the sausage mixture over the eggs. Add the remaining tater tots on top. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is fully set.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set properly. Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite breakfast sides!
Tips and Variations
Customization Ideas
- Add More Veggies: Try mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes.
- Use Different Cheese: Substitute with mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Go Meat-Free: Use plant-based sausage or extra veggies instead.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked casserole for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes! You can use diced or shredded potatoes, but they should be pre-cooked before assembling the casserole.
Can I make this casserole without dairy?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with non-dairy milk, and use dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the center is firm and a knife inserted comes out clean.
Can I add bacon or ham instead of sausage?
Yes! Cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham are great alternatives.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per serving, or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With a crispy tater tot base, melty cheese, and a hearty sausage-egg mixture, it’s sure to be a hit with your family. Plus, with so many customization options, you can tailor it to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!