Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar preferred)
- 1 (32-ounce) package frozen tater tots
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, salsa, or hot sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Sausage Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the entire surface of the casserole.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the tater tots to ensure they are submerged in the egg mixture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, salsa, or hot sauce.
- Slice into squares and serve warm as a delicious and hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, preheat the oven and bake as directed. Perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
- Variations: Customize by adding cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach. Use different cheese types according to preference.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
Enjoy this Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying with family on a lazy weekend morning.
