Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is one of those hearty, all-in-one dishes that brings breakfast and comfort food together in the best way. Crispy tater tots top a layer of savory sausage and gooey melted cheese, all held together by a fluffy, eggy custard. It’s like a warm, cheesy hug first thing in the morning.
I love making this casserole when friends or family come over because it’s so easy to put together and it always disappears fast! A little tip from me: don’t be afraid to add extra cheese or mix in some diced veggies like bell peppers or onions to sneak in some color and flavor. Plus, baking it gives the tater tots that perfect golden crunch I find impossible to resist.
My favorite way to serve this dish is with a simple side of fresh fruit or a light green salad to balance out the richness. It’s cozy enough for weekend mornings but filling enough to keep you going all day. Whenever I make it, everyone seems to gather around the table sharing smiles and stories, which is the best part of any breakfast in my book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These bring the perfect crispy texture on top. You can swap them for frozen hash browns or shredded potatoes if you want a different texture.
Breakfast Sausage: Mild or spicy works well. For a lighter option, try turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. Use dairy-free cheese if needed.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs hold the casserole together with the milk creating a creamy custard. For a non-dairy version, try almond or oat milk.
Onions & Seasonings: Onions add sweetness and depth. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper keep it simple but tasty. You could add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
How Do You Get Crispy Tater Tots on Top Without Overcooking the Eggs?
The trick is to bake covered first so the egg cooks through gently, then uncover to crisp the tater tots and melt the cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes at 350°F to set the eggs without drying out the top.
- Remove foil, add extra cheese or bacon, and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes to let the tots turn golden and the cheese bubble.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving to finish firming up and make serving easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – I use this size because it fits all the layers perfectly and cooks evenly.
- Large skillet – helps you brown the sausage and sauté onions without making a mess.
- Whisk – makes mixing the egg and milk mixture smooth and quick.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Oven mitts & foil – for covering and uncovering the dish during baking to keep everything cooking just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a different smoky flavor.
- Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spice or creaminess.
- Mix in cooked hash browns or shredded potatoes instead of tater tots for a different texture.
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, for topping)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time is about 1 hour, including 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking. You’ll cook the sausage and onions, mix the eggs, assemble the casserole, then bake it covered and uncovered for that perfect crispy top.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage and Onions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any extra grease.
2. Layer the Casserole
Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray. Spread the frozen tater tots evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and onions on top, then add ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Prepare and Add Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
4. Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese and optional bacon on top. Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the eggs are set and the cheese melts and browns slightly.
5. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped parsley or cilantro on top. Serve warm and enjoy a comforting, cheesy breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully cook and crumble the sausage before adding it to the casserole. Thaw frozen sausage in the fridge overnight or defrost it in the microwave for quicker prep.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the sausage for added flavor and nutrients. Just cook them until tender before layering.
