Name: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots; 1 pound breakfast sausage; 8 large eggs; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

Hey y'all! If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast that’s as easy as it is delicious, this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is about to become your new favorite. Packed with crispy tater tots, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food—ideal for lazy weekends, holiday brunches, or meal prepping busy mornings. Trust me, this casserole is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is incredibly easy to assemble—just layer, bake, and enjoy warm, cheesy goodness.
It’s a true crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or potlucks.
Preps ahead beautifully, so you can make mornings stress-free and delicious.
Customizable with your favorite breakfast meats, veggies, and cheeses.
Crispy tater tots on top add the ultimate crunchy finish everyone loves!

Ingredients for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
8 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

2. Cook the Sausage and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

3. Layer the Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage and veggie layer.

4. Arrange the Tater Tots

Neatly arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the entire casserole.

5. Mix the Egg Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika (if using) until well combined.

6. Pour and Top

Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

7. Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the tater tots are crisp and golden. Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sliced green onions and dig in!

Notes: Tips for the Best Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to allow flavors to meld.
For an extra kick, try using spicy breakfast sausage or adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Check out this helpful guide on breakfast casseroles for more inspiration!

Variations: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Your Way

Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and diced tomatoes.
Bacon Lovers: Replace sausage with cooked, crumbled bacon or use half bacon, half sausage.
Southwestern Style: Add diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese, and a sprinkle of cumin.

Required Equipment for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

9x13-inch baking dish
Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions: Keep Your Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Fresh

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes or rewarm the whole dish in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes.
Freeze baked casserole (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.

Serving Recommendations & Pairings for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Serve with a fresh fruit salad or mixed berries for a refreshing contrast.
Add a side of crispy bacon, sausage links, or avocado toast for a heartier breakfast.
Pair with orange juice, coffee, or a brunch mimosa for the perfect morning meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

For the crispiest topping, broil the casserole for the final 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Shred your own cheese for the best melt and flavor; pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that affect texture. More info here.
Let assembled casserole chill overnight to enhance flavors and make busy mornings easier; just bake as directed in the morning. Learn more here.

FAQ: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Can I make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.
Can I use hash browns instead of tater tots?: Yes! You can substitute frozen hash browns; just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry for even cooking.
How do I know when the casserole is done?: The eggs should be set in the center and the tater tots golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole