When mornings are rushed and chaotic, having a hearty breakfast ready to go can be a game-changer. Enter the Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family breakfasts, holiday mornings, or brunch gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it the night before, so all you have to do is pop it in the oven when you wake up.

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole (Make-Ahead!)

This casserole combines the comforting flavors of crispy tater tots, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese into one delightful dish. Follow along as we share the recipe, tips, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

Serves: 8-10

  • 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon, diced)

  • 1 cup diced onion

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional, for added flavor and color)

  • 8 large eggs

  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2%)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorites)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbly. If using bacon, cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve a small amount of the rendered fat for sautéing vegetables.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

  • Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer at the bottom of the dish.

  • Sprinkle the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheeses evenly over the tater tots.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

5. Combine and Chill:

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Use a spatula to gently press the ingredients down to ensure everything is coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).

6. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Bake, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Make-Ahead Tips

  1. Refrigeration Time: You can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

  2. Freezing Option: For longer storage, assemble the casserole (without baking) and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.

  3. Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the sausage for ham, turkey, or a vegetarian meat substitute. Add mushrooms, spinach, or other veggies to make it your own.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

A: Yes, but the texture will differ. Grate fresh potatoes, squeeze out the excess moisture, and season them with salt and pepper before using as a substitute.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

A: Ensure the tater tots are evenly layered and not overcrowded. Pressing the ingredients gently after adding the egg mixture helps distribute the liquid evenly.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and dairy-free cheese. The flavors will still be delicious.

Q: How long does it keep after baking?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?

A: Pair it with fresh fruit, a side salad, or buttery toast to complete the meal. For drinks, orange juice, coffee, or mimosas are excellent options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this recipe a breeze.

  • Perfect for Crowds: Feeds a large group with minimal effort.

  • Customizable: Adapt the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

  • Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance for stress-free mornings.

Final Thoughts

The Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Its combination of savory flavors, crispy textures, and cheesy goodness makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Plus, the ability to prepare it ahead of time means you can focus on enjoying your morning instead of rushing to cook.

Try this recipe for your next breakfast or brunch, and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!

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