Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl with Sausage Gravy

Start your day with a hearty hug in a bowl! This Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl with Sausage Gravy is the quintessential comfort food, combining crispy golden tater tots with a rich, creamy, and savory homemade sausage gravy. It’s a dish that evokes cozy weekend mornings, perfect for fueling up before a busy day or simply indulging in a delicious brunch. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a breakfast that feels special every time.

Detailed Ingredients:

For the Crispy Tater Tots:

• 4 cups (approximately 20 oz) frozen tater tots

For the Rich Sausage Gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (bulk or removed from casings)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or 2% for a slightly lighter gravy)
• Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste (start with ¼ teaspoon)

Optional Toppings & Garnish:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a sharp cheese blend)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (scallions), for garnish
• 4 fried eggs (one per bowl), cooked to your preference (sunny-side up, over easy, etc.)
• A dash of hot sauce (for those who like a kick!)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Crisp the Tater Tots: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the tater tot package directions (usually around 400°F/200°C). Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Cook for 20-30 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and perfectly crispy. For extra crispiness, flip them halfway through cooking.
2. Brown the Sausage: While the tater tots are baking, place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breakfast sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and crumbly.
3. Drain Excess Grease: Once the sausage is cooked, carefully drain most of the excess grease from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons of rendered fat with the sausage. This fat is crucial for creating the roux (the flour and fat mixture that thickens the gravy).
4. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked sausage and remaining grease in the skillet. Stir continuously for 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and combine with the fat. This step helps cook out the raw flour taste.
5. Whisk in Milk and Thicken Gravy: Gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking as you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. It should be rich and creamy, coating the back of a spoon.
6. Season the Gravy: Season the thickened sausage gravy generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that breakfast sausage can vary in saltiness, so taste and adjust as needed.
7. Assemble the Bowls: To assemble, divide the crispy tater tots among individual serving bowls.
8. Add Gravy and Toppings: Ladle a generous amount of warm sausage gravy over the tater tots in each bowl. If using, top with shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, and/or a perfectly fried egg.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and prepare for a truly satisfying breakfast experience!

Tips, Variations, and Storage:

• For Spicier Gravy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the flour, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the finished gravy.
• Herbaceous Touch: A pinch of dried sage or thyme can be added with the flour for an extra layer of savory flavor.
• Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses! A Monterey Jack or a Colby Jack blend would also be delicious.
• Vegetarian Option: While not traditional, you could make a vegetarian version by browning diced mushrooms or plant-based sausage crumbles instead of breakfast sausage, then proceeding with the gravy steps.
• Storage: Leftover sausage gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it’s too thick. Tater tots are best enjoyed fresh, as they lose their crispness upon refrigeration.
• Make Ahead: The sausage gravy can be made a day in advance, making morning assembly even quicker.

Pairings:

• Beverages: Classic coffee, orange juice, or a refreshing glass of milk.
• Side Salads: A light fruit salad with berries and melon would provide a nice contrast to the richness of the bowl.
• Bread: While not necessary, a side of toasted sourdough or warm biscuits would be excellent for soaking up any extra gravy.

Quick Info:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food / Breakfast