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This tater tot sausage breakfast casserole is the answer to laid-back weekend mornings or busy holiday brunches when everyone craves something warm and comforting that can feed a hungry crowd. With a crispy top layer and a cheesy, savory interior, this dish comes together easily and always disappears fast in my house.
I first made this for a holiday breakfast gathering, and everyone—from kids to grandparents—went back for seconds. Now it is our most requested brunch dish, especially when we have guests.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Hot breakfast sausage: for a savory and spicy flavor choose quality fresh sausage from the butcher for best results
- Frozen tater tots: create the crispy golden topping check that they are frozen solid before baking
- Salt: essential for seasoning every layer use kosher or sea salt for clean flavor
- Pepper: gives a gentle heat freshly ground is best
- Garlic powder: subtle savory boost look for a fine powder without clumps
- Onion powder: rounds out the flavor make sure it is fresh for the most aroma
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and offers richness sharp cheddar gives more bite
- Mozzarella cheese: adds a creamy stretchy melt for extra cheesy pockets
- Eggs: bind everything together and add protein use the freshest eggs you can find
- Milk: lightens the custard choose whole milk for a creamy finish
How to Make It
- Prep Your Baking Dish:
- Spray a 9x13 inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy
- Brown the Sausage:
- Place sausage in a large skillet over medium heat break it up with a spatula and cook until no longer pink about ten minutes drain away the fat thoroughly to keep the casserole from getting greasy
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl add tater tots cooked sausage cheddar and mozzarella toss together gently until even this ensures cheese is scattered throughout for perfect bites
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread the tater tot mixture evenly in your prepared pan press down lightly to create an even bed for the custard
- Whisk the Custard:
- In a separate bowl whisk together eggs salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and milk beat until fully combined for a fluffy texture
- Pour and Soak:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tot base let it soak in for five minutes so every piece is coated
- Chill or Bake:
- Cover the pan tightly if baking later and refrigerate overnight or move straight to the oven
- Bake:
- Place casserole uncovered in a preheated 350 degree oven for sixty to seventy minutes check that the eggs are set in the center and the top is golden and bubbling let rest for ten minutes before serving for clean slices
Every time I make this casserole I look forward to that first cheesy bite where the mozzarella stretches with the crisp of the tater tots. Watching my family gather around the table makes all the prep work worth it and the scent alone brings everyone running.
Flavor Boosters
Let the casserole cool completely then cover and refrigerate for up to three days. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave or the oven for maximum crispiness. For longer storage freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple fruit salad to add brightness and freshness. Serve alongside strong coffee or fresh juice for a balanced breakfast. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives right before serving for extra flavor.
Creative Twists
Swap hot sausage for mild if you prefer less heat or try turkey sausage for a lighter dish. You can use any favorite cheese blend—pepper jack or Swiss both work wonderfully. Frozen hash browns may be used if tater tots are unavailable just add a few extra minutes to the bake.
Shred your own cheese for sharper flavor and a smoother melt. Take time to drain the cooked sausage fully so the casserole is never greasy. Remember letting the casserole cool slightly before slicing is the secret for perfect squares every time.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I assemble this casserole the night before?
Yes, after assembling, cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning as directed for a quick hot breakfast.
- → Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Absolutely. Try bacon, ham, or a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile while keeping textures similar.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds flavor, while mozzarella brings creaminess. Other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack can also be used.
- → How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown, typically after 60-70 minutes in the oven.
- → Can this dish be frozen and reheated?
Yes, let the casserole cool completely, then freeze portions. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.