There’s something magical about starting the day with a breakfast that feels both indulgent and comforting. Enter the Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl with Gravy—a dish that combines all your favorite breakfast elements into one delicious bowl. This recipe is inspired by the classic American diner breakfast, where crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and creamy gravy reign supreme. But instead of heading out to your local diner, you can now create this comforting meal right in your own kitchen. Perfect for lazy weekends, family brunches, or even breakfast-for-dinner nights, this dish is bound to become a favorite.
Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast or someone who prefers to keep things simple in the morning, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to deliver big on flavor. And with a few simple variations and serving suggestions, you can customize it to suit your tastes. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up this hearty breakfast bowl:
- 4 cups of frozen tater tots: The crispy base that holds everything together.
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage: For that savory, meaty goodness.
- 4 large eggs: Scrambled to perfection, they add protein and fluffiness.
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Because everything’s better with cheese.
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions: For a fresh, zesty garnish.
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour: To make the roux for the gravy.
- 2 cups of milk: The creamy base for your gravy.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of butter: Adds richness to the gravy.
Variations & Tips: Customize Your Breakfast Bowl
This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
Switch Up the Protein
Turkey or Chicken Sausage: For a leaner option, swap the breakfast sausage with turkey or chicken sausage. You’ll still get that savory flavor with fewer calories.
Vegetarian Version: Try a plant-based sausage or omit the meat altogether and add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, veggie-packed version.
Add Some Veggies
Sneak in some greens: Stir in some sautéed spinach, kale, or bell peppers when you scramble the eggs. It’s an easy way to add extra nutrients and color to your breakfast.
Corn and Peppers: For a Southwestern twist, add some corn kernels and diced bell peppers to the sausage as it cooks.
Cheese It Up
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while smoked gouda brings a rich, smoky flavor.
Extra Cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle some extra cheddar or your favorite cheese on top before serving.
Make It Spicy
Add Heat: If you like a little spice, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage or drizzle some hot sauce over the finished bowl.
Pickled Jalapeños: Serve with a side of pickled jalapeños for an extra tangy, spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Bringing It All Together
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Bake the Tater Tots
Preheat your oven: Set it to 425°F (220°C) to ensure your tater tots get nice and crispy.
Bake the tater tots: Spread 4 cups of frozen tater tots evenly on a baking sheet. Bake according to the package instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden and crispy. While they bake, you can work on the other components of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Create the roux: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk constantly for about 2 minutes until the flour is fully incorporated and the roux is smooth.
Add the milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while continuing to whisk. Keep whisking to avoid lumps and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The gravy should be creamy, smooth, and ready to pour.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Cook the eggs: In a separate pan, scramble 4 large eggs until just cooked through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. You want the eggs to be fluffy and tender, not overcooked.
Step 5: Assemble the Breakfast Bowls
Divide the tater tots: Once the tater tots are done, divide them among four bowls. These crispy tots form the base of your breakfast bowl.
Add the toppings: Top each bowl with a portion of the cooked sausage, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will start to melt from the heat of the eggs and sausage, making everything even more delicious.
Pour on the gravy: Generously pour the warm gravy over each bowl, letting it coat the sausage, eggs, and tater tots.
Garnish and serve: Finish each bowl with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh, bright touch. Serve immediately and dig in!
Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Breakfast
This Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl is hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some ideas:
Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit like orange slices or berries for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a touch of brightness and balance.
Tangy Accompaniments: A side of pickled jalapeños or a tangy tomato salsa can cut through the richness and add a burst of flavor.
Drinks: Pair with a refreshing glass of orange juice, a steaming cup of coffee, or even a mimosa if you’re feeling fancy.
Final Thoughts
The Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl with Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of classic breakfast flavors coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re enjoying it as a special weekend brunch or a comforting breakfast-for-dinner treat, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table. And with its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, you can customize it to fit your tastes and dietary preferences.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Happy cooking!
Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl with Gravy
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Bake the Tater Tots: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the tater tots on a baking sheet and bake according to the package instructions, about 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until evenly browned and cooked through. Transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease and set aside.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes until the roux is smooth. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Scramble the Eggs: In a separate pan, scramble the eggs until just cooked through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the baked tater tots among four bowls. Top each with a portion of cooked sausage, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour on the Gravy: Generously drizzle warm gravy over each bowl, letting it coat the sausage, eggs, and tater tots.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!