Description

There’s something about a breakfast casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, filling the house with the cozy scent of crispy tater tots, sizzling sausage, and melted cheese. This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole has become a staple in many households, especially for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or when you want to impress your guests without the hassle of individual servings.

The beauty of this casserole is in its simplicity. It’s easy to make, incredibly filling, and can be customized to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you prefer turkey sausage or beef, or you’re a fan of extra cheese and veggies, this dish offers versatility and comfort in every bite. For many, this casserole has become a tradition passed down from generation to generation—served at holiday breakfasts or Sunday morning gatherings. It’s more than just food; it’s a moment to slow down, share, and savor.

Ingredients

Tater Tots – 1 (32 oz) bag (these will be your crispy base!)
Beef Sausage – 1 pound (or your choice of meat)
Eggs – 6 large eggs
Milk – 1 cup (whole milk or half-and-half works best)
Shredded Cheese – 2 cups (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Onion – 1 medium onion, finely diced
Green Bell Pepper – 1, finely chopped (optional)
Garlic Powder – 1 tsp
Salt & Pepper – To taste
Butter – 1 tablespoon (for greasing the baking dish)
Fresh Herbs – Optional, for garnish (parsley or chives work great)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to make sure your casserole comes out easily. This simple step helps prevent the casserole from sticking to the sides and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the beef sausage and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. Drain any excess fat if necessary, but leave just a little to sauté the vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using). Cook them until softened, about 3-4 minutes. The onions should turn translucent, and the peppers will soften slightly. You want to preserve a little crunch in the peppers for texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where you can get creative—add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Stir in half of the shredded cheese to make the casserole extra creamy.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Now it’s time to build your casserole! Start by spreading a layer of tater tots across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure they’re arranged evenly. Then, sprinkle the cooked sausage and sautéed veggies over the tots. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything, making sure all the ingredients are well-covered.

Top the casserole with the remaining cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set, and the top is golden and bubbly. You can check the doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when the casserole is done.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares. This will help it set and make for easier serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or even a warm mug of coffee for a complete, satisfying breakfast.

Notes

This breakfast casserole can be made in advance and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven to enjoy again. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just cover it tightly with foil before freezing.