This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a warm, satisfying dish that combines crispy tater tots, seasoned sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese into the perfect make-ahead breakfast. It’s easy to prepare and always a hit for brunches, holidays, or slow weekends at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s so simple and incredibly filling. It comes together quickly, uses everyday ingredients, and bakes up golden and flavorful every time. The crisp topping from the tater tots, paired with cheesy eggs and savory sausage, makes every bite comforting and delicious. It’s great for meal prep or feeding a hungry group.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 pound sausage (any kind you prefer)
1 small onion, diced
8 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the sausage and diced onion until browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess liquid.
I spread the sausage mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage.
In a bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
I pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and cheese.
I arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
I bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the tater tots are crisp and golden.
I let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. A sprinkle of green onions or parsley gives it a fresh finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45–50 minutes to bake, so it’s ready in roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Variations
I sometimes use a different type of sausage for a new flavor.
Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach add some veggie variety.
Swapping in different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella gives it a twist.
A few red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can turn up the heat.
I’ve made it with hash browns instead of tater tots when I want a softer topping.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm the full dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes. It also freezes well—once cooled, I wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, I often assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. I bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cold.
Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
Nope, I use them straight from the freezer. They bake up crisp and golden every time.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is my go-to, but I also love using blends like mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a creamy finish.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. I like mixing in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add extra flavor and texture.
How can I make this spicier?
I add a pinch of red pepper flakes, use a spicy sausage, or mix in chopped jalapeños for a kick.
Conclusion
This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is my favorite kind of breakfast—easy, filling, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish I can rely on for any morning gathering or simple weekend comfort, with the added bonus of being totally customizable.
A hearty and comforting breakfast casserole made with crispy tater tots, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheddar cheese—perfect for brunch, holidays, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 pound sausage (any kind you prefer)
1 small onion, diced
8 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the sausage and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through; drain excess liquid.
Spread the sausage mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and cheese.
Arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, until the eggs are set and the tater tots are golden and crisp.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.
