Name: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb breakfast sausage; 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots; 8 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Cooking spray or butter for greasing

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If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing way to start your morning, look no further than this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe. It brings together crispy, golden tater tots layered over savory breakfast sausage, all wrapped up in a luscious, cheesy egg custard that bakes to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or prepping breakfast ahead for busy mornings, this casserole balances hearty flavors and textures with ease — guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several cooking ingredients arranged neatly. At the top left, there is a red and purple bag of Ore-Ida Golden Tater Tots with pictures of small golden potato pieces on the front. Below it to the left is a white bowl full of shredded bright orange cheddar cheese. Next to it, slightly to the right, is a smaller white bowl filled with thick, white sour cream. To the right side, there is a carton holding six brown eggs. Close to the eggs, there are two small glass shakers, one with black pepper and one with salt. At the bottom left on white paper, there are five raw bacon strips laid out flat. To the right of the bacon, there is a small white measuring cup filled with white milk. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe has a special role, working together to create layers of flavor and texture you’ll crave. From the rich, seasoned sausage to the melty sharp cheddar and those irresistibly crispy tater tots, you only need a handful of simple items to make a big impression.

1 lb breakfast sausage: Brings savory, meaty flavor that forms the hearty base of the casserole.
1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots: Adds irresistible crispiness and a golden crunch on top.
8 large eggs: The glue that holds the whole casserole together in a fluffy, custardy layer.
1 cup milk: Keeps the eggs tender and creates a creamy texture throughout.
2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese: Melts to a gooey, flavorful topping that binds all the elements.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory background note.
Cooking spray or butter for greasing: Prevents sticking and helps the casserole brown beautifully.

How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter. This step ensures that your casserole won’t stick and will come out cleanly for serving.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Once done, drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy, then spread the sausage evenly in the prepared baking dish. This flavorful layer is the foundation that gives the dish its savory character.

Step 3: Add the Tater Tots

Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cooked sausage. Using a single layer helps each tot get that crispy texture everyone loves while providing a beautiful golden surface once baked.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. This fluffy mixture will soak through the casserole, setting perfectly around the sausage and tater tots for maximum flavor and texture contrast.

Step 5: Pour Egg Mixture and Add Cheese

Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the arranged tater tots, allowing it to seep carefully into the nooks between them. Then generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese on top. This cheese layer is the golden, melty finish that makes every bite unforgettable.

Step 6: Bake Your Casserole

Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and the tater tots turn a gorgeous golden brown with crispy edges. The smell filling your kitchen during this time is pure comfort food magic.

Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time helps everything firm up just enough for easy serving while keeping the centers moist and delicious.

How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your slices with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and color. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce pairs perfectly with the rich layers of this casserole.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp mixed green salad to balance the richness or pair with fresh fruit for a bright, refreshing contrast. Toasted English muffins or warm biscuits are also fantastic options to round out this hearty breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming presentation. You can also add toppings like sautéed bell peppers, caramelized onions, or cooked bacon for an extra flavor boost that personalizes the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftover Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It keeps well and tastes just as delicious when reheated.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months, making it perfect for prepping meals in advance.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick breakfast fix.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese provide a great balance of sharpness and creaminess, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some spice or mozzarella for a mild melt.

Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes! Assemble the casserole in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just pop it in the oven the next morning and bake as directed.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

You can, though tater tots give the perfect crispy texture. If using fresh potatoes, parboil and dice them, then roast before layering to achieve similar results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check sausage and other packaged items to ensure no hidden gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheddar Recipe is such a wonderful way to start any morning — cozy, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a recipe that brings comfort and smiles every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own special breakfast tradition!