Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Introduction

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm breakfast casserole in the oven, especially on a lazy weekend morning. This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole has quickly become a family favorite in our home. It combines the hearty goodness of breakfast sausage with the delightful crunch of tater tots, topped off with creamy cheese and fluffy eggs. My family loves it, and I appreciate how easy it is to prepare. With just a bit of chopping and mixing, I can pop it in the oven and relax while it bakes. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or just a special family breakfast.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. bulk ground breakfast sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 lbs. frozen tater tots
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• 10 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Cook the Sausage Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. When the sausage is about halfway browned, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the vegetables are soft. Drain any excess grease from the skillet and set the pan aside.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Place a single layer of frozen tater tots in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded pepper jack cheese evenly over the tater tots.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, kosher salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour this egg mixture over the shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly over the egg mixture.
6. Top with any remaining tater tots and sprinkle with the rest of the shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is set and cooked through.

Serve

Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Total Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 275 mg
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Dietary Fiber: 2 g
• Sugars: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice into squares and serve hot.
• Pair with sides: Fresh fruit, a light salad, or biscuits for a complete breakfast.
• Garnish with: Chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
2. Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
3. Customize the cheese: Swap out the cheddar and pepper jack for your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.
4. Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
5. Make it gluten-free: Substitute the tater tots with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add more veggies, such as zucchini and spinach, for a delicious vegetarian casserole.
• Meat Lover’s Delight: Incorporate additional proteins like diced ham or bacon for a heartier meal.
• Hash Brown Variation: Substitute tater tots with frozen hash browns for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Gatherings: Serve this casserole at a brunch with friends, alongside mimosas or coffee.
• Family Breakfast: Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this dish feeds a crowd.
• Potluck Dishes: A hit at potlucks; everyone loves the savory combination of flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh sausage instead of bulk?

• Yes, you can use fresh sausage links; just remove the casings before cooking.

1. Can I make this casserole without meat?

• Absolutely! Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

1. Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free tater tots and ensure any other ingredients (like sauces) are gluten-free.

1. Can I use egg substitutes?

• Yes, you can substitute with egg whites or a plant-based egg substitute for a healthier option.

1. How do I know when the casserole is done?

• The casserole should be set in the middle, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

1. Can I prepare it the night before?

• Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

1. How can I add more flavor?

• Consider adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even herbs like thyme or oregano.

1. What kind of tater tots work best?

• Any frozen tater tots work well, but try to choose a brand with minimal additives for the best flavor.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan or two separate pans.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   • Reheat in the microwave for individual portions or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a perfect dish for those who crave a hearty and satisfying breakfast. It’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for meal prep options, this casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try, and it may just become a staple in your home! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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