If you love a breakfast that feels like a warm, comforting hug first thing in the morning, this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together crispy golden tater tots, savory breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh, bright chives in one delightful casserole you can throw together in a snap. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this casserole hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows many small, browned pieces of cooked ground meat spread evenly across a black cast iron skillet. The meat pieces vary in size and have a slightly crispy texture on the edges with a mix of light brown and dark brown colors. The skillet has some oil and small bits of meat stuck to the surface, giving it a slightly shiny look. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this casserole so irresistible. From the melty cheddar to the perfectly seasoned sausage and those crispy tater tots on top, everything works in harmony.

12 ounces ground pork breakfast sausage: Adds a flavorful and savory base with a satisfying meaty bite.
6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully to create that irresistible gooey texture and sharp taste.
8 large eggs: Provide richness and protein, binding everything perfectly.
1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the eggs tender and airy for that custardy softness.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors so nothing falls flat.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth and spice.
1 (32-ounce) bag frozen Tater Tots: The crispy crown that turns this breakfast casserole into a total crowd-pleaser.
Thinly sliced chives, for serving: A fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens every bite.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by warming a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork breakfast sausage and cook it, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step creates the savory, meaty foundation your casserole needs. Once done, remove the pan from heat so you can assemble the rest.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together eight large eggs, half a cup of whole milk, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This blend will bake into a luscious custard that holds all the wonderful ingredients together with a smooth, creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the crispy tater tots topping.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Spread the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of your skillet, creating a savory bed. Next, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage, letting it layer in the rich, melted cheese goodness. Pour the egg mixture gently over the cheese and sausage, ensuring it seeps into every nook and cranny, sealing in all those morning flavors.

Step 4: Top with Crispy Tater Tots

Now comes the fun part — arranging the frozen tater tots! Start by placing them in concentric circles on top of the egg mixture, either starting from the outer edge and working your way inward or the other way around. You won’t need the entire bag, so save the rest for another creative use. This crispy layer will bake to a golden perfection, adding the perfect texture and visual appeal.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the skillet into a preheated 350˚F oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the eggs to set completely and the cheese to melt in all those happy pockets beneath the tots. If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle a bit more cheddar on top in the last couple of minutes of baking, then let it melt before pulling the casserole out.

Step 6: Cool and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool just slightly — this makes it easier to cut into neat wedges. Sprinkle thinly sliced chives over the top for a fresh, oniony pop that balances the rich and savory flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe

A black skillet filled with a single layer of small, golden, crispy tater tots arranged closely together in a circular pattern. The tater tots appear crunchy and textured, sitting in a thick, yellow-orange sauce that surrounds and slightly covers their base. The sauce looks creamy and smooth, pooling between and around the tater tots. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped chives are an essential garnish for this casserole, adding a touch of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens each bite. For an optional twist, consider a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of diced tomatoes to introduce a cool, slightly tangy contrast.

Side Dishes

This casserole is so filling and flavorful it can easily stand alone, but if you want to round out your breakfast spread, fresh fruit salad or a simple green side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing brightness. You might also serve it with warm toast or buttery croissants for a complete brunch experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your brunch guests? Serve the casserole in the skillet it baked in to keep it warm and rustic. Alternatively, portion it into mini ramekins or muffin tins before baking for delightful individual servings that are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or fun party trays.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe, store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. It stays delicious for up to five days, making it an excellent option for easy weekday breakfasts.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this casserole for longer storage. Make sure it has cooled completely, then wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325˚F until warmed through and crispy again, or microwave for a quicker option, though that may soften the tater tots slightly. This way, you’ll enjoy that unbeatable melty-cheese and crispy-top combo once more.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this casserole?

Absolutely! While ground pork breakfast sausage is traditional for its seasoning and texture, feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or even a spicy chorizo for a flavor twist. Just be mindful of the seasoning as some variations might contain more spices.

Do I have to use cheddar cheese? Can I use another cheese?

Cheddar is classic here because it melts beautifully and offers a sharp flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend for a milder, creamier result. Just pick cheeses that melt well to keep that luscious casserole texture.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it fresh in the morning. This makes it a fantastic option for busy mornings or holiday brunches where you want to minimize last-minute prep.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe serves about 8 generous portions, perfect for feeding a family or a small brunch gathering.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free sausage and check that your tater tots don’t contain any gluten-containing additives. Most plain frozen tater tots are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to double-check label information.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a breakfast that combines ease, flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe is your answer. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy that feels like pure comfort in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too—give it a whirl and enjoy the delicious results!

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe

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This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole combines savory ground pork sausage, melted cheddar cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy tater tots for a hearty and delicious morning meal perfect for family brunches or make-ahead breakfasts.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Breakfast Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Sausage Mixture

12 ounces ground pork breakfast sausage

Egg Mixture

8 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Casserole

6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra to sprinkle over top
1 (32-ounce) bag frozen Tater Tots
Thinly sliced chives, for serving

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Cook the Sausage: Heat a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork breakfast sausage and cook it, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then remove the pan from heat.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 8 large eggs, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bottom of the skillet. Sprinkle 6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and sausage layer.
Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen Tater Tots in concentric circles over the egg mixture—either start with a row around the rim and work inward or vice versa. You will not use the entire 32-ounce bag; reserve leftover tater tots for another use.
Bake the Casserole: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the eggs are fully set and the cheese has melted. Optionally, sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake for an extra 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Garnish with thinly sliced chives and serve warm. Leftovers can be stored for about 5 days.

Notes

You don’t need to thaw the tater tots before baking; arranging them frozen works best.
Using an oven-safe skillet allows you to cook the sausage and bake the casserole in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
Reserve leftover tater tots for another meal or snack.
Make sure the eggs are fully set before removing from the oven to ensure proper texture.
This casserole can be kept refrigerated for up to 5 days and reheated for a quick breakfast option.