Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl

This hearty tater tot breakfast bowl combines two classic comfort foods - crispy tater tots and rich sausage gravy - into one irresistible morning meal that will keep you satisfied until lunch.

I first made this recipe when hosting a brunch for friends who stayed over after a late night. The combination of crispy potatoes and savory gravy had everyone asking for the recipe before they left.

Ingredients

• Frozen tater tots: Provide the perfect crispy base less work than making hash browns from scratch
• Ground breakfast sausage: Creates the flavor foundation for the gravy use sage variety for extra flavor
• All purpose flour: Thickens the gravy without clumping when added correctly
• Whole milk: Creates the creamiest texture possible substitute 2% if needed but avoid skim
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Balance the richness of the gravy
• Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese and green onions add color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Tater Tots:

Preheat your oven according to the package directions usually around 425°F. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet giving them space to crisp evenly. Bake until golden brown and crispy about 25 minutes depending on your oven. For extra crispiness flip them halfway through cooking time.

Brown the Sausage:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat no oil needed as the sausage will release its own fat. Add the ground breakfast sausage and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains and the edges begin to brown usually 7 to 8 minutes. The browning process creates flavor so resist stirring constantly.

Create the Roux:

Without removing the sausage from the pan sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked meat. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes allowing the flour to cook and absorb the fat. This cooking process eliminates the raw flour taste and creates the foundation for smooth gravy. The mixture will look dry and somewhat pasty which is exactly what you want.

Make the Gravy:

Reduce heat to medium low and slowly pour in the milk about half a cup at a time whisking constantly to prevent lumps. After each addition whisk until smooth before adding more milk. Once all milk is incorporated simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes stirring occasionally until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. It should coat the back of a spoon but still flow easily.

Season and Assemble:

Taste the gravy and season generously with salt and pepper remembering that potatoes need substantial seasoning. Place a generous portion of crispy tater tots in each serving bowl creating a nest. Ladle the hot sausage gravy over the tots while both are still hot. Finish with optional toppings like shredded cheese which will melt from the heat of the gravy and freshly chopped green onions for brightness.

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This recipe reminds me of Sunday mornings at my grandmothers house where breakfast was always the biggest meal of the day. She taught me that the secret to perfect sausage gravy is patience when adding the milk a slow pour ensures silky smooth results every time.

Meal Prep Options

The sausage gravy can be made up to three days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat adding a splash of milk to thin it if necessary. The tater tots should always be freshly baked for the best texture and crispiness. This preparation strategy makes this dish perfect for busy mornings when you want something special without the full cooking time.

Variations To Try

Consider this recipe a starting point for endless breakfast bowl creations. For a spicy version add a diced jalapeño while cooking the sausage or stir in hot sauce to the finished gravy. Create a complete breakfast bowl by adding a fried egg on top the runny yolk adds another layer of richness. For a vegetarian option replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth with the milk for a rich meat free gravy.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this breakfast bowl pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit to balance the richness. For a complete brunch spread serve alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette or bloody marys for weekend entertaining. If serving for dinner consider adding a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For presentation serve in wide shallow bowls that showcase the layers and allow easy eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the sausage gravy thicker?

For thicker sausage gravy, you can add a little more flour when cooking the sausage, or let the gravy simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground breakfast sausage with other varieties like spicy or vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile.

→ What other toppings work well with this dish?

Shredded cheese, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or even a fried egg make excellent additions to enhance the flavor.

→ Can I prepare the tater tots and gravy ahead of time?

You can bake the tater tots and prepare the gravy in advance, but serve them after reheating to maintain crispness and freshness.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs well with fresh fruit, a side salad, or a cup of coffee to create a balanced breakfast.