Start your day with a hearty tater tot breakfast casserole that combines crispy tots, savory sausage, and gooey cheese for a delightful morning meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family gatherings or busy weekdays, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. The layers of flavor and texture make it a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a breakfast staple in your home.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
– 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
– 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 parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g fat, 28g carbohydrates, and 16g protein. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tater tots on the bottom.
5. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the tater tots.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage layer.
7. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Add the remaining tater tots over the cheese layer.
9. Top with the remaining cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until golden brown and the eggs are set.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a side of toast, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip draining excess fat from the sausage; it prevents sogginess.
– Ensure eggs are fully cooked; check with a toothpick if unsure.
– Avoid overloading with too many toppings; it can affect baking time.
– Use a shallow baking dish for even cooking.
– Don’t rush the preheating; it’s crucial for a crispy top.
Helpful Tips
– Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
– Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
– Experiment with different spices to enhance flavor.
– Make it a day ahead and bake in the morning for convenience.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Freshly made tater tots will add a delicious homemade touch to your casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the sausage with a plant-based option or omit it entirely and add more veggies.
How can I spice it up?
Consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy sausage to give the casserole an extra kick.
Can leftovers be frozen?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw before reheating.
Conclusion
This tater tot breakfast casserole is a delightful way to start your day, combining comfort and flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, it’s a dish that will quickly earn a place in your brunch rotation. Enjoy the hearty goodness with family and friends!
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 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 parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tater tots on the bottom.
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the tater tots.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage layer.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the remaining tater tots over the cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until golden brown and the eggs are set.
