This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is one of those recipes I always reach for when I need something hearty, comforting, and make-ahead friendly. It’s packed with breakfast sausage, crispy tater tots, gooey cheese, and a rich, seasoned egg mixture. Whether I’m hosting family for the weekend or just want a no-fuss breakfast that keeps well, this casserole never lets me down.

Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and works for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s flexible enough for advance prep—I can refrigerate it overnight or freeze it for later. Plus, the combo of sausage, melty cheese, and tater tots is always a hit with kids and adults alike. I don’t even have to thaw the tater tots; I just toss them in frozen, which saves time and effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lb hot breakfast sausage
1 (30–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
8 eggs
2 cups milk

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Then, in a large skillet, I cook the sausage until it’s no longer pink, and drain off the fat.
In a big bowl, I toss together the frozen tater tots, cooked sausage, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. This gets spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
I whisk the eggs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk, then pour this mixture over the tater tot mixture in the dish.
If I’m making it ahead of time, I cover it at this point and refrigerate or freeze it.
When it’s time to bake, I leave it uncovered and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people generously.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

I sometimes switch up the sausage with mild or maple sausage for different flavor profiles. When I want extra spice, I add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture. For a more veggie-packed version, I’ll mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. I’ve also tried it with different cheeses like pepper jack or Swiss for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

Once baked and cooled, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I pop individual servings in the microwave until warmed through. If I freeze the unbaked casserole, I make sure it’s tightly wrapped. When I’m ready to serve it, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If I’m reheating a frozen, already baked casserole, I cover it with foil and bake at 350ºF for 30–40 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes, I often assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. I just add a few extra minutes to the baking time the next morning.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

Nope! I always use them straight from the freezer. It saves time and they cook up perfectly in the oven.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?

Yes, I prepare it, cover it tightly, and freeze it unbaked. When I’m ready to serve it, I thaw it completely in the fridge and then bake as usual.

What kind of sausage works best?

I use hot breakfast sausage for a little kick, but mild or even maple sausage tastes great too.

Can I cut the recipe in half?

Absolutely. I halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch dish. The baking time may be slightly shorter, so I keep an eye on it.

Conclusion

This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something warm, filling, and easy to prepare ahead of time. It’s comforting, cheesy, and full of savory flavor that makes every bite satisfying. Whether I’m cooking for a group or just want leftovers for the week, this casserole always delivers.