Description
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast casserole, look no further! This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for a week of hearty breakfasts. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 eggs
- 1 pound pork sausage (Jimmy Dean recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 package frozen tater tots (approximately 24 oz)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9 x 13-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your casserole will come out easily without sticking to the pan.
2. Brown the Meat
Heat a skillet over medium heat and break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream (or whole milk), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the mixture is well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Place the frozen tater tots in the bottom of the prepared dish to form a full layer. On top of the tater tots, evenly distribute the cooked sausage. Sprinkle 2 cups of cheddar cheese over the sausage. Finally, pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over the entire dish.
5. Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole dish with foil. This step helps prevent the edges from cooking too quickly and burning. Bake the tater tot casserole for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the center is fully cooked. Note that oven times may vary, so start checking for doneness at the 40-45 minute mark.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the casserole hot, with optional toppings such as sour cream, tomatoes, salsa, or crunchy bacon. This dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Notes
Serving Tips
1. Serve with Toppings
Enhance the flavor of your casserole by serving it with a variety of toppings:
- Sour Cream: Adds a creamy and tangy contrast.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Provides a fresh and juicy element.
- Salsa: Brings a zesty kick.
- Crunchy Bacon: Adds a delightful crunch and extra savory taste.
2. Pair with Beverages
This hearty casserole pairs well with:
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: For a refreshing and vibrant drink.
- Hot Coffee: Complements the savory flavors with a warm, rich taste.
- Milk: A classic choice that’s perfect for any breakfast dish.
3. Serve with Side Dishes
Round out your meal with some simple side dishes:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Balances the richness of the casserole with natural sweetness.
- Buttered Toast or Biscuits: Provides a crunchy or fluffy texture contrast.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Offers a light and refreshing counterpoint.
Storage Tips
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
2. Freezing for Later
If you want to save some casserole for a later date, follow these steps:
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature.
- Portion Out: Cut the casserole into individual portions for easier reheating.
- Wrap and Store: Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat from Frozen: To reheat, remove a portion from the freezer and either microwave it for 2-3 minutes, or bake it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning:
- Assemble the Casserole: Follow the assembly instructions up to the baking step.
- Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake Fresh: In the morning, preheat the oven and bake according to the original instructions, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if necessary.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of your Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole fresh from the oven or as convenient leftovers throughout the week.
