If you are looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast that delivers crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors all in one dish, this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe should be your go-to. It’s a perfect blend of fluffy eggs, spicy sausage, vibrant peppers, and golden tater tots baked into a warm, comforting casserole. The combination of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses adds a gooey, flavorful finish that makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s for a family brunch or a lazy weekend morning, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward but essential for crafting the perfect texture, taste, and color balance in this casserole. Each component combines to create a satisfying dish full of bold flavors and delightful surprises.
- 1 lb. bulk ground breakfast sausage: Provides a juicy, seasoned protein base full of savory goodness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, mellowing the dish as it cooks.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a bright, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds earthy flavor and balances the bell pepper medley.
- 2 lbs. frozen tater tots: The crispy, golden layer that defines this casserole’s signature texture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy cheese that melts beautifully for a rich experience.
- 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds a gentle spicy kick for an exciting flavor twist.
- 10 large eggs: Bind and fluff the casserole, bringing everything together perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the egg mixture creamy without weighing it down.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite.
How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later on.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Mixture
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even browning. Once partially browned, toss in the diced onions and both red and green bell peppers. Keep cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the vegetables have softened, releasing their natural sweetness. Drain any excess grease from the pan, then set the flavorful mixture aside while you assemble the casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the sharp cheddar and half of the pepper jack cheese over the tots for a gooey foundation. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth and frothy. Pour this rich egg mixture over the cheese, then evenly spread the sausage and vegetable mixture on top. Finish by layering the remaining tater tots and the rest of the shredded cheeses for a perfectly balanced top crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 30 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes. This final step melts the cheese to bubbly perfection and allows the casserole to set fully without drying out. Keep an eye on it; the golden cheese and crisp tater tots signal it’s ready.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let your casserole stand for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the egg mixture firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without losing its delicious, custardy texture.
How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really elevate this casserole. Try sprinkling chopped green onions, a handful of fresh parsley, or even some diced avocado on top for a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This breakfast casserole pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp fruit salad, fresh orange slices, or a refreshing mixed greens salad. These lighter options provide a nice contrast to the casserole’s richness and keep the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of serving in the baking dish, consider scooping the casserole into individual small skillets or ramekins. This presentation feels extra special and keeps servings warm longer. You can even add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for guests who want to customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to keep portions for later. Wrap the cooked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Consider freezing in individual portions for easy breakfast grab-and-go options.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, usually about 20–30 minutes. Using foil while reheating prevents the tater tots from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, spicy chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your preferences. Each brings a different twist to the Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe.
What if I don’t have pepper jack cheese?
If you’re out of pepper jack, Monterey Jack or mozzarella can work as milder alternatives. You could also boost the spice with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes in the egg mixture for that extra kick.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and then bake it fresh in the morning. This makes busy mornings so much easier and the casserole tastes just as amazing.
Are there ways to make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free sausage and verify your tater tots don’t contain gluten additives. Always double-check labels to be safe.
Can I add vegetables or change the veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to swap out or add extras like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes. Just sauté harder vegetables before adding to ensure everything cooks evenly in the casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to make, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a special morning meal. I hope you give it a try soon and discover just how easy and delicious breakfast can be when you layer in crisp tater tots and gooey cheese. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings or weekend brunches. Combining savory ground breakfast sausage, colorful bell peppers, crispy tater tots, and a rich blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, all baked together with a silky egg custard, it offers a satisfying and comforting start to your day.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb. bulk ground breakfast sausage
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
Casserole Base
- 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). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Sausage Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground breakfast sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. When the sausage is about halfway cooked, add the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the vegetables have softened. Drain off any excess grease and set the skillet aside.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread a single layer of frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the sharp cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese over the tater tots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, kosher salt, and black pepper until combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Spoon the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the eggs. Top with the remaining tater tots and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheeses.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is fully set and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole warm!
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Add chopped mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
- Use a mix of cheeses or your favorite types for different flavors.
- Make the casserole the night before and refrigerate; bake it fresh in the morning.
- Ensure the tater tots are evenly distributed for consistent crispiness on top.
