Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together crispy golden tater tots, savory sausage, and melted cheese all baked into a warm, satisfying casserole. It’s the kind of meal that wakes up your taste buds with simple, familiar flavors that everyone loves, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat.
I absolutely love making this casserole when I have a bunch of people over because it’s so easy to prepare ahead of time and then pop into the oven. The combination of crispy tots with the juicy sausage and soft eggs mixed in is a favorite in my house, and it always disappears quickly. A little tip I like to share is to make sure the sausage is well browned before mixing it in—that way, you get lots of flavor in every bite.
One of my favorite ways to serve this casserole is with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh green onions on top; it adds a nice touch of freshness that balances out the richness. It’s also perfect paired with a simple fruit side or a fresh green salad if you want to keep things light. This dish brings a little bit of joy to any morning and reminds me why breakfast really is the best meal of the day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These give the casserole a crispy and golden top. If you want a lighter option, try using roasted diced potatoes instead. Sweet potato tots work well for a twist in flavor.
Breakfast Sausage: Classic pork sausage adds great flavor and richness. For a leaner choice, you could swap in ground turkey or chicken sausage. Vegetarian sausage crumbles also work if you prefer a meatless version.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds that classic cheesy taste. You can mix in mozzarella for a stretchier texture or use pepper jack if you like a bit of a kick.
Eggs & Milk: This combo binds the casserole. Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can use 2% or even a dairy-free milk like almond milk for a different twist.
Green Onions & Bacon: These add freshness and crunch. Feel free to swap green onions with chives or parsley. And for bacon, turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits can be great substitutes.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Set yet Moist Breakfast Casserole?
Getting the eggs perfectly cooked without drying them out is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Whisk the eggs well with milk to create a smooth liquid that will soak the layers evenly.
- Pour gently over the layered ingredients to avoid shifting the layers too much.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) so the dish cooks evenly. Don’t rush the baking time — about 45-50 minutes lets the eggs set fully.
- Check the center near the end; the eggs should be firm but still moist, not rubbery.
- Adding cheese on top near the end locks in moisture and gives a nice melted finish.
Letting the casserole cool before serving helps it slice cleanly and lets flavors meld. Patience really pays off here!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I like this size because it fits all the layers and bakes evenly.
- Skillet – perfect for cooking the sausage until browned and flavorful.
- Whisk – makes mixing the eggs, milk, and seasonings smooth and quick.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients and seasonings.
- Spatula or spoon – to spread the sausage and cheese evenly in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork for a leaner version.
- Mix in cooked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different cheese flavor.
- Add hot sauce or chili flakes to the egg mixture if you like a spicy kick.
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or your choice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 50-55 minutes to bake. Including some cooling time, plan for roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes before you get to enjoy this delicious breakfast casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Layer Tater Tots and Sausage:
Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on the bottom of the baking dish. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then spread the sausage evenly over the tater tots. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage and tater tots.
3. Make and Pour the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder if using, and half of the chopped green onions. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
4. Bake and Finish:
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is bubbly. Remove from oven and sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes or until the cheese melts. Take it out and sprinkle with crumbled bacon and the remaining chopped green onions.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit and makes it easier to cut clean slices. Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and savory breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots Straight from the Bag?
Yes! There’s no need to thaw them first. Just layer the frozen tots directly in the baking dish—they’ll crisp up nicely while baking.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I Substitute the Sausage?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or a plant-based sausage alternative to suit your taste or dietary needs.