Kickstart your day with the hearty and flavorful potato and cheese morning casserole. This easy-to-make breakfast dish combines the comforting tastes of potato nuggets, savory sausage, and sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection in a creamy egg mix.
The ingredients for this recipe are usually available in most homes. However, you might need to pick up a few things like frozen bite-sized potato nuggets, ground sausage, and sharp cheddar cheese from the supermarket. These key ingredients elevate the dish and give it its signature taste.
Potato and Cheese Morning Casserole Ingredients
Potato nuggets: These are bite-sized potato pieces that have been frozen. They add a crunchy texture to the casserole.
Ground sausage: This adds a meaty, savory element to the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit it.
Onion: Onion provides a sweet and savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Chili powder and dried basil: These spices add depth and warmth to the dish.
Garlic: Garlic brings a pungent flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Eggs: Eggs are a staple in casserole dishes, providing structure and a creamy texture.
Heavy whipping cream: This adds a rich and creamy consistency to the casserole.
Black pepper: Black pepper gives a slight heat and enhances the overall flavors.
Sharp cheddar cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a tangy flavor.
One reader, Davey Finley says:
This potato and cheese morning casserole recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crispy potato nuggets, savory sausage, and creamy cheddar cheese is simply divine. It's a hearty and satisfying breakfast option that my family absolutely loves. Plus, it's so easy to make! Highly recommend trying it out.
Key Techniques for Preparing a Delicious Breakfast Casserole
How to preheat an oven: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F by turning the temperature dial or pressing the appropriate buttons on the oven control panel.
How to arrange tater tots: Place the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring that they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
How to bake potato nuggets: Bake the tater tots in the preheated oven until they are partially cooked, which should take approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Once done, remove them from the oven.
How to reduce oven temperature: After baking the tater tots, reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees F by adjusting the temperature dial or pressing the appropriate buttons on the oven control panel.
How to spray a casserole dish: Spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish during baking.
How to cook sausage and onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and stir the ground sausage, onion, chili powder, basil, and garlic until the sausage is browned and crumbly and the onion is soft, which should take approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain and discard any excess grease.
How to whisk eggs and cream: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy whipping cream until the mixture is evenly blended. Season the mixture with ground black pepper.
How to arrange potato nuggets in a casserole dish: Arrange the partially-cooked potato nuggets in the prepared casserole dish, ensuring they form an even layer at the bottom of the dish.
How to sprinkle cheese over potato nuggets: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the layer of potato nuggets in the casserole dish, ensuring even coverage.
How to spread sausage mixture over cheese layer: Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the layer of cheddar cheese in the casserole dish.
How to pour egg mixture over sausage layer: Pour the whisked egg and cream mixture over the layer of sausage in the casserole dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
How to bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake until the casserole is set in the middle and lightly browned, which should take approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
How to allow the casserole to cool: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and firm up slightly.
How To Make Potato and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Potatoes and cheese make this breakfast casserole a starchy and creamy dish with a spicy flavor from the chili powder but balanced by milk and cream.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 32ozfrozen bite-sized potato nuggets,(1 pkg), such as Tater Tots®
- cooking spray
- 1lbground sausage
- ½large onion,chopped
- 2tbspchili powder
- 1tbspdried basil
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 12eggs
- ¾cupheavy whipping cream
- 1tspground black pepper,or to taste
- 2cupsshredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Preheat an oven to 450 degrees F.
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Arrange Tater Tots® in a single layer on a baking sheet.
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Bake in the preheated oven until potato nuggets are partially cooked, 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven.
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Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
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While the potatoes bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir sausage, onion, chili powder, basil, and garlic in the hot skillet until sausage is browned and crumbly and onion is soft, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease.
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Whisk eggs and cream together in a bowl until evenly blended; season with pepper.
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Arrange partially-cooked potato nuggets in the prepared casserole dish; sprinkle with Cheddar cheese. Spread sausage mixture over cheese layer. Pour egg mixture over sausage layer.
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Bake in the preheated oven until set in the middle and lightly browned, 30 to 40 minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 572.32kcal
- Fat: 44.16g
- Saturated Fat: 14.79g
- Trans Fat: 0.41g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 16.01g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.68g
- Carbohydrates: 14.84g
- Fiber: 1.38g
- Sugar: 1.42g
- Protein: 29.19g
- Cholesterol: 270.82mg
- Sodium: 977.52mg
- Calcium: 205.10mg
- Potassium: 437.29mg
- Iron: 2.23mg
- Vitamin A: 221.67µg
- Vitamin C: 1.17mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Your Casserole
To ensure that your potato nuggets are crispy and not soggy in your casserole, it's crucial to partially bake them first as directed in the recipe. This step allows the nuggets to firm up and maintain their texture when mixed with the other ingredients. Also, when browning your sausage, make sure to break it up into small, crumbly pieces. This will ensure that each bite of your casserole has a balanced distribution of meat, cheese, and potato. Lastly, when whisking your eggs and cream together, aim for a smooth and even blend. This will result in a more uniform and creamy texture in your finished casserole.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Potato and Cheese Morning Casserole
Prep ahead: Prepare the sausage mixture and whisk the egg mixture the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time in the morning.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating and reduce prep work.
Batch cooking: Consider making a double batch and freezing half for a quick and easy breakfast option on busy mornings.
Invest in kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools such as a food processor for chopping onions and a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup.
Delegate tasks: Enlist the help of family members to assist with simple preparation tasks to streamline the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Potato and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
frozen bite-sized potato nuggets - Substitute with frozen hash browns: Frozen hash browns can be used as a substitute for potato nuggets as they provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
ground sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage can be used as a substitute for ground sausage to create a meatless version of the casserole while still providing a savory flavor and texture.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can be used as a substitute for heavy whipping cream to reduce the fat content while still providing richness and creaminess to the casserole.
shredded sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar cheese to add a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the casserole while still providing a good melting quality.
Best Way to Present a Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole
Elevate the casserole with a gourmet touch: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives and parsley over the casserole to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a stunning visual: Arrange the casserole on a sleek, white porcelain platter to create a striking contrast with the golden-brown casserole, making it visually appealing.
Incorporate a touch of elegance: Serve the casserole alongside a vibrant mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a touch of sophistication to the plate.
Add a gourmet flair with a drizzle: Drizzle a balsamic reduction in an artistic pattern around the edge of the plate to add a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish.
Enhance the aroma: Serve the casserole on a warm plate to release the enticing aroma of the dish as it is presented to the judges, creating an inviting sensory experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Potato and Cheese Morning Casserole
- Oven: To bake and cook the casserole at specific temperatures.
- Baking sheet: To arrange the potato nuggets in a single layer for baking.
- Skillet: To cook and stir the sausage, onion, and spices.
- Whisk: To blend the eggs and cream together evenly.
- 9x13-inch casserole dish: To bake and serve the casserole.
- Cooking spray: To grease the casserole dish and prevent sticking.
Storing and Freezing Your Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Cut the casserole into individual portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and make it easier to reheat single servings.
Label the wrapped portions with the date and contents, then place them in the freezer. The casserole will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.
To reheat from frozen, remove the desired number of portions from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and foil, then reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If you plan to freeze the entire casserole, use a freezer-safe baking dish and follow the same wrapping and labeling instructions. To reheat, let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
How to Reheat Leftover Cheesy Potato Casserole
To reheat leftover potato and cheese morning casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning and drying out. Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a single serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. The exact time will depend on the strength of your microwave and the size of the portion. Be careful not to overheat the casserole, as this can cause the eggs to become rubbery and the potatoes to lose their texture.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat individual portions in a toaster oven or under the broiler. Place the serving on a toaster oven tray or a baking sheet, and heat it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is crispy and the casserole is heated through. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the casserole while maintaining its crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place a portion of the casserole in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it's heated through and the top is crispy.
Lastly, if you're reheating a large portion of the casserole, you can do so on the stovetop. Place the desired amount in a skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and the potatoes and sausage are crispy. This method works best for smaller portions and allows you to add a little extra flavor by cooking the casserole in a bit of butter or oil.
Interesting Trivia About Cheesy Potato Casseroles
Tater tots are a popular American side dish made from grated and deep-fried potatoes. They were created in 1953 by the Ore-Ida company and have since become a staple in many households.
Is Making This Breakfast Casserole at Home Cost-Effective?
This potato and cheese morning casserole recipe is a budget-friendly option for households. The combination of potatoes, sausage, and eggs provides a hearty and satisfying meal. The use of affordable ingredients makes it a cost-effective choice for feeding a family of four. The approximate cost for the entire dish is around $15, making it an economical breakfast or brunch option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8 out of 10, considering its affordability, delicious flavors, and filling nature.
Is This Cheesy Potato Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?
The potato and cheese morning casserole recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest breakfast option. The dish is high in saturated fat and calories due to the generous amounts of sausage, heavy cream, and cheese. Additionally, the frozen potato nuggets are likely to be processed and high in sodium. The recipe does include some beneficial ingredients like onion and garlic, but overall, it lacks a balance of nutrients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the sausage with a leaner protein source like turkey or chicken sausage, or opt for a vegetarian alternative like soy-based crumbles
- Reduce the amount of cheese by half and choose a lower-fat variety
- Substitute the heavy cream with a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a protein boost and reduced fat content
- Use fresh, diced potatoes instead of frozen potato nuggets to reduce the sodium and preservative content
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, to increase the fiber and nutrient density
- Use a smaller portion of the casserole and serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a mixed greens salad to balance out the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Recipe
This potato and cheese morning casserole recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy potato nuggets provide a satisfying crunch, while the savory sausage, onions, and spices add depth to the dish. The creamy egg and cheese mixture brings everything together, resulting in a hearty and comforting breakfast option. The recipe is well-balanced and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a weekend brunch or a special morning treat.
Enhance Your Potato and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Breakfast Casserole
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Casserole
Why trust this Potato and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe:
This recipe is a delicious and satisfying morning casserole that combines the convenience of frozen potato nuggets with the savory flavors of ground sausage and sharp cheddar cheese. The use of chili powder and dried basil adds a depth of flavor, while the addition of heavy whipping cream creates a rich and creamy texture. With a perfect balance of ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this recipe promises a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.
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