Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Loaded with savory breakfast sausage, eggs, and gooey Cheddar cheese, then topped with crispy tater tots, it’s a perfect choice for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or make-ahead meals. Everything bakes in one dish for minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-dish meal, perfect for easy cleanup

• Combines classic breakfast flavors in one hearty bake

• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved

• Kid-friendly and adult-approved

• Uses simple, accessible ingredients

• Great for feeding a crowd

• Crispy tater top topping adds fun texture

• Customizable with different meats, cheeses, or veggies

• Perfect for meal prepping breakfasts for the week

• Comfort food at its best, with no bread required

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooking spray

• ½ pound breakfast sausage

• 1 small onion, diced

• ½ cup milk

• 5 large eggs

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 (12-ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

• 1 (16-ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (Tater Tots)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.

2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook sausage and diced onion until browned and crumbly, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat and let cool slightly.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

4. Spread the cooked sausage mixture in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.

5. Sprinkle half of the Cheddar cheese over the eggs, then evenly layer all the frozen tater tots on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

6. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tots are golden.

7. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Meat options: Use cooked bacon or diced ham instead of sausage

• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper or jalapeños for heat

• Veggie boost: Include diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach

• Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for variety

• Mini version: Use mini tater tots for more even distribution

Storage / Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freezer: Freeze cooled casserole (whole or in portions) for up to 2 months

• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through

FAQs

Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it the night before, cover and refrigerate. Bake as directed in the morning.

Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Yes, assemble and wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I use bacon instead of sausage?

Absolutely. Crispy bacon or even diced ham are great substitutes.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The tater tots will be golden and the eggs fully set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Do I have to thaw the tater tots first?

No, use them straight from the freezer for best texture.

Can I make this in a 9×13-inch pan?

Yes, just double the ingredients for a larger casserole and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, cheddar is classic, but feel free to use your favorite melting cheeses.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with fruit salad, muffins, or a green salad for brunch.

How can I make this vegetarian?

Skip the meat or use a plant-based sausage alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure your sausage and tater tots are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a weekend breakfast favorite that combines simplicity with satisfying flavors. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you get a complete meal in one dish—eggs, cheese, sausage, and crispy potatoes. Make it your go-to for brunch gatherings or as a family-pleasing make-ahead breakfast.