Starting my day with a cozy Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl With Sausage Gravy Recipe is one of my favorite ways to enjoy breakfast. This hearty dish combines crispy tater tots with creamy sausage gravy, making it a delicious and filling option. Whether it is a lazy weekend morning or a busy weekday, this breakfast bowl is sure to please everyone at the table.
The Joy of Breakfast Bowls
Breakfast bowls have taken the food world by storm. They allow you to combine all your favorite breakfast ingredients in one large bowl. There is something comforting about a bowl of food that warms you up and tastes amazing. When you combine tater tots with sausage gravy, you create a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl With Sausage Gravy Recipe
To create this indulgent breakfast bowl, you need some key ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (usually about 32 oz)
- Ground sausage: 1 pound (I like using breakfast sausage)
- Milk: 2 cups (whole or 2% works best)
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Eggs: 4 (optional for topping)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup shredded (for topping)
- Green onions: chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl With Sausage Gravy Recipe
The base of your breakfast bowl is the tater tots. I love how crispy and golden they become when baked. Start by preheating your oven according to the package instructions. Then, spread the tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them until they are golden brown, usually around 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
This step is crucial, as you want your tater tots to be crispy to stand up to the creamy sausage gravy.
Preparing the Sausage Gravy
While the tater tots are baking, it is time to prepare the sausage gravy. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind. Add the butter to the skillet to melt. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together, cooking for a minute to eliminate the raw taste of flour.
Slowly add the milk to the skillet while continually whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The gravy will thicken as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme for extra flavor.
Optional Egg Topping
If you want to add a protein boost to your breakfast bowl, consider adding fried or scrambled eggs. To do this, simply crack the eggs into a separate pan and cook them to your liking. Sunny-side up or over-easy eggs add a beautiful touch to the dish and increase the overall flavor.
Assembling the Bowl
Now that everything is prepared, it is time to assemble your tater tot breakfast bowl. Start by placing a generous layer of crispy tater tots in your bowl. Next, pour the creamy sausage gravy over the top, making sure to cover all the tots.
For an added deliciousness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot gravy. The cheese will melt and create a gooey blanket of goodness. Finally, top with the cooked egg, if using, and garnish with chopped green onions for freshness.
Variations to Consider
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for various toppings and alterations. Here are some ideas to customize your tater tot breakfast bowl:
- Swap the meat: You can use bacon or ham instead of sausage for a different flavor.
- Add vegetables: Sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms can elevate the dish and add color.
- Spice it up: Hot sauce or jalapeños can bring a spicy twist to your breakfast bowl.
Meal Prep and Storing Tips
If you plan to make multiple portions or want to enjoy leftovers, this breakfast bowl stores well. Keep the tater tots and gravy separate until you are ready to eat. This will maintain the crispiness of the tater tots.
You can store both components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat the tater tots in the oven for crispiness. Then heat the gravy on the stovetop or microwave.
Making It Ahead of Time
For busy mornings, you can prepare the sausage gravy the night before. Store it in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to reheat in the morning. You can still bake the tater tots as normal to maintain their crispy texture.
This makes it super convenient for those early workdays when you wish you had more time.
Perfect Pairings
Consider pairing your tater tot breakfast bowl with refreshing sides. Fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced oranges, will bring a lightness to the meal. A hot cup of coffee or tea is an excellent accompaniment to warm you up on a chilly morning.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl With Sausage Gravy Recipe is a favorite for many reasons. It is filling, comforting, and delicious. Not only does it combine familiar flavors, but it also brings a bit of nostalgia for those who grew up with tater tots.
The joy of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can make a large batch for a family gathering or whip up a quick meal just for yourself. Whatever the occasion, this breakfast bowl is sure to satisfy cravings and brighten up your mornings.