Loaded Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutesCook Time: 45–50 minutesTotal Time: 1 hour 5 minutesServings: 8Course: Breakfast, BrunchCuisine: AmericanIngredients32 oz frozen tater tots1 lb beef or turkey breakfast sausage8 large eggs1 cup whole milk2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided1 bell pepper, diced3–4 green onions, sliced1 teaspoon garlic powder½ teaspoon black pepperSalt, to tasteChopped green onions or fresh parsley, for garnishOptional ToppingsSour creamSalsaSliced avocadoChopped chivesJalapeñosHot sauceInstructionsPreheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.Cook the sausage: Add the beef or turkey breakfast sausage to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease.Add the vegetables: Stir the diced bell pepper and about half of the green onions into the sausage. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened.Prepare the filling: Spread the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until evenly combined.Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and cheese. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top.Add more cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots.Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the eggs are completely set and the tater tots are crisp and golden. The center of the egg casserole should reach 160°F.Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with the remaining green onions or fresh parsley and serve warm.Recipe NotesYou don't need to thaw the tater tots before using them.Cook moisture-rich vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach before adding them.For a spicy version, add jalapeños and use Pepper Jack cheese.You can prepare the sausage and vegetables the night before to save time.Keep the casserole uncovered while baking for crispier tater tots.Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.Reheat individual servings in the air fryer or oven when you want to restore some of the crispy texture.Make-Ahead TipCook your sausage and vegetables ahead of time and refrigerate them overnight. When you're ready for breakfast, assemble the casserole with the egg mixture, cheese, and frozen tater tots, then bake as directed.