TER TOT SAUSAGE BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar preferred)
• 1 (32-ounce) package frozen tater tots
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, salsa, or hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage Mixture:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
   • Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage mixture.
   • Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the entire surface of the casserole.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the tater tots to ensure they are submerged in the egg mixture.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, salsa, or hot sauce.
   • Slice into squares and serve warm as a delicious and hearty breakfast or brunch option.

Tips:

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, preheat the oven and bake as directed. Perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
• Variations: Customize by adding cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach. Use different cheese types according to preference.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.

Enjoy this Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying with family on a lazy weekend morning.