The Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl with Sausage Gravy is a hearty and comforting start to your day. It’s all about crispy golden tater tots piled high, topped with warm, creamy sausage gravy that’s packed with flavorful bits of sausage. This dish brings together textures and flavors that feel like a cozy morning hug in a bowl.
I love making this when I want something filling but easy to pull together on a lazy weekend morning. The crunchy tots mixed with the rich gravy are just so satisfying. A little tip: be generous with the sausage bits because that’s what makes the gravy extra tasty and special for me.
What I enjoy most is how flexible this bowl can be—you can add a fried egg on top or some shredded cheese if you’re feeling extra fancy. It’s a breakfast that feels like a treat but is also really simple, and it always gets a thumbs up from friends and family alike. It’s the kind of dish that makes mornings better, no matter how rough the week has been.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the crunchy, crispy base of the bowl. If you want a healthier option, you can bake them instead of frying or use small roasted potatoes.
Breakfast Sausage: Pork sausage adds great flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based sausage crumbles.
Milk: Whole milk gives gravy its creamy texture. You can substitute with 2% or plant-based milk like oat or almond for dairy-free gravy, just expect a slightly different taste.
Butter and Flour: Butter helps make the roux, the thickening base. For a dairy-free gravy, use oil or vegan butter instead.
Eggs: Sunny-side-up eggs are my favorite here because the runny yolk mixes with the gravy and tots. But scrambled or poached eggs also work nicely.
How Do I Make Smooth and Creamy Sausage Gravy Without Lumps?
Making gravy can seem tricky but it’s all about these simple steps:
- Cook sausage first and save the fat – it adds flavor to your gravy.
- Lower heat to medium-low before adding butter so it melts gently.
- Sprinkle flour evenly over the melted butter and whisk constantly to form a smooth roux. Let it cook briefly but avoid browning.
- Slowly pour milk in while whisking to stop lumps from forming.
- Keep stirring over medium-low heat until it thickens – patience is key!
Remember, if lumps form, keep whisking and the heat low. This technique gives you that rich, velvety gravy perfect for draping over your tots and eggs.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use it to spread the tater tots so they bake crispy and golden evenly.
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking sausage and making the gravy in one pan, saving time and dishes.
- Whisk – I love it because it keeps the gravy smooth and lumps-free as you pour in the milk.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – ideal for cooking eggs without sticking or breaking the yolk.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helpful for getting the right amounts of milk, flour, and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Proteins: Swap sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or chorizo for different flavors.
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella on top for extra richness.
- Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost vitamins and texture.
- Spices & Herbs: Mix in a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or fresh parsley to customize the taste.
Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl With Sausage Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
- ½ lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 25-30 minutes baking the tater tots, about 10 minutes cooking the sausage and making the gravy, and a few minutes for cooking the eggs and assembling everything.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Tater Tots:
Preheat your oven as directed on the tater tots package, usually around 425°F (220°C). Spread the frozen tater tots evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
2. Cook the Sausage:
While the tater tots bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into the pan and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. When done, scoop the sausage into a bowl, but keep the fat in the skillet.
3. Make the Sausage Gravy:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Melt the butter in the skillet using the sausage fat. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux, but don’t let it brown.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring over medium-low heat until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Return the cooked sausage to the gravy and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm on low heat.
4. Cook the Eggs:
In a separate non-stick skillet, cook your eggs the way you like. Sunny-side-up eggs are great here because the runny yolk adds extra creaminess. Otherwise, scrambled or poached eggs work well too.
5. Assemble Your Breakfast Bowl:
Place a generous scoop of crispy tater tots in a bowl. Spoon the warm sausage gravy over the tots. Gently lay your cooked eggs on top. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives over everything for a nice pop of color and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl right away while it’s warm and the eggs are still runny. It’s a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect to start your morning off right!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage Instead of Fresh Sausage?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave to speed up the process. This helps it cook evenly and avoid excess moisture in the gravy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Try substituting the sausage with plant-based meat crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth or a dairy-free milk alternative for the gravy to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the tater tots in the oven to keep them crispy, warm the gravy gently on the stove, and cook fresh eggs when ready to serve.
Can I Prepare This Breakfast Bowl Ahead of Time?
You can prep the sausage gravy in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat it slowly on the stove before serving. Bake the tater tots fresh for best texture, and cook eggs just before serving for the best flavor and presentation.