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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Assemble the Bowls: To assemble, divide the crispy tater tots among individual serving bowls.
- 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.
- 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
