Savory, cheesy, and satisfying, this tater tot breakfast casserole is one of my favorite comforting make-ahead brunch dishes. I love putting it together when I want something hearty that feels special but doesn’t require complicated steps. It’s perfect for busy mornings, weekend gatherings, or anytime I want a warm, filling breakfast that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground breakfast sausage
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 large eggs
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready once everything is assembled.
In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. After draining the excess grease, I add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Then I remove the skillet from the heat.
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
I lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer, then pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
Next, I arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the surface. I bake the casserole uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the eggs are fully set and the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy.
After removing it from the oven, I let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. If I want a fresh pop of flavor, I garnish it with chopped green onions before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 servings, which I find perfect for feeding a family or serving at brunch.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Each serving contains approximately 340 calories, making it a satisfying and protein-rich breakfast option.
Variations
When I want to switch things up, I sometimes replace the breakfast sausage with cooked bacon or diced ham for a different savory flavor.
If I’m looking to add more vegetables, I mix in spinach, mushrooms, or even diced zucchini. I also enjoy experimenting with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella.
For a spicier version, I add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture. If I need a lighter version, I use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese while keeping the same delicious texture.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I want to reheat a slice, I microwave it for about 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
If I prefer a crispier texture, I reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the tater tots regain some of their crunch.
I also like freezing individual portions. I wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, I often assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, I bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
I can use diced or shredded potatoes, but I make sure they’re partially cooked first to ensure they become tender during baking.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
I check that the eggs are fully set in the center and no longer jiggly. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
I can substitute dairy-free milk and dairy-free shredded cheese. The texture remains creamy and satisfying.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Most frozen tater tots and breakfast sausages are gluten-free, but I always check the labels to be sure, since ingredients can vary by brand.
Conclusion
This tater tot breakfast casserole is one of my go-to recipes when I want a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast that doesn’t require complicated prep. I love how the crispy top layer pairs with the cheesy, savory filling underneath. Whether I’m hosting brunch, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving comfort food in the morning, this recipe always delivers satisfying results.
📖 Recipe:
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Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory, cheesy, and hearty tater tot breakfast casserole made with sausage, eggs, vegetables, and crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for make-ahead brunches, busy mornings, or comforting family breakfasts.
Ingredients
1 lb ground breakfast sausage
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 large eggs
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the eggs are set and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve.
Notes
Can be assembled the night before and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.
Substitute sausage with cooked bacon, diced ham, or turkey sausage if desired.
Add extra vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes for crispier texture.
Freeze individual portions tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
