Can I use regular hash browns instead of tater tots?

Absolutely! Shredded hash browns or even the hash brown patties will work beautifully in this recipe. If using shredded hash browns, you might want to cook them slightly first or expect a slightly different texture in the final dish.

My family doesn't like spicy food. Can I make this milder?

Definitely! Simply substitute regular breakfast sausage for the spicy version. You can also add 1/2 teaspoon of sage to regular sausage if you want that classic breakfast sausage flavor without the heat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different cheeses. Try Monterey Jack, Colby, Swiss, or even a Mexican cheese blend. For extra flavor, a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese mixed in with a melting cheese can be delicious.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the sausage and sauté 2 cups of diced vegetables instead (bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach work well). For additional protein, you can mix in 1 cup of black beans or a vegetarian meat substitute like Beyond Sausage crumbles.

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Description

This hearty and delicious Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is perfect for starting your day off right. Packed with savory sausage, eggs, creamy cheese, and crispy tater tots, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and great for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings. Make it ahead or bake it fresh — either way, it’s a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients

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Sausage and Vegetable Mixture

1 pound spicy breakfast sausage (bulk or casings removed)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Egg Mixture

8 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Other Ingredients

2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
16 ounces frozen tater tots (1 bag)
Chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by coating it with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the spicy breakfast sausage and diced onion. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until aromatic. Drain any excess grease and transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
Layer the Casserole
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) over the sausage-and-onion mixture. Next, evenly pour the egg mixture over these layers in the baking dish.
Top with Tater Tots and Cheese
Arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the casserole in a single layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. At this stage, you can either bake the dish immediately or cover it and refrigerate for up to 12 hours for later use.
Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the egg mixture is fully set and the top is golden and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or knife into the center — it should come out clean.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Notes

To save time, you can chop the onions and garlic the night before.
For extra flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack along with cheddar.
This dish is freezer-friendly! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
If using precooked sausage, simply skip the cooking step and proceed with layering it in the baking dish.
Pair this dish with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 375
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 155mg