If you’re like me, mornings can feel chaotic, and having something ready to go makes all the difference. That’s where this tater tot breakfast casserole comes in. It’s one of my go-to recipes for meal prep because it’s loaded with protein, reheats beautifully, and makes breakfast feel like a treat without too much effort. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can adjust it to suit your family’s taste. My preference is an extra egg or two on top for more protein!

Why I Love This Recipe for Meal Prep

Not only is this casserole hearty and delicious, but it also holds up well in the fridge and freezer. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy weekdays or need a quick breakfast for weekend brunch, this dish saves time. It’s packed with protein from eggs, turkey sausage, Fairlife milk, and cottage cheese, making it a filling start to the day.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious breakfast casserole:

• 1 lb turkey sausage, crumbled

• 8 large eggs

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey cheese, divided

• 1 cup Fairlife milk (or milk of choice)

• 1 (32 oz) bag of tater tots

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Breakdown

• Turkey Sausage: I love using turkey sausage crumbles because they add so much flavor without a ton of fat. You could also swap for chicken sausage or regular sausage.

• Eggs: These add the structure and protein that make this casserole a great breakfast option.

• Cottage Cheese: I know this might sound like a surprise ingredient, but trust me—it makes the casserole extra creamy while adding a protein boost. (Favorite here)

• Fairlife Milk: Using Fairlife instead of regular milk sneaks in a bit more protein without changing the flavor or texture. However, any milk of choice will work.

• Tater Tots: These create the perfect crispy topping. They’re the key to getting that satisfying crunch with each bite!

• Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give the casserole a warm, savory flavor.

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the turkey sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Set aside.

3. Mix the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, Fairlife milk, 1 cup of Monterey cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked sausage evenly in the greased baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top.

5. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the casserole.

6. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the tater tots are golden and crispy.

7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Monterey cheese over the top and bake for another 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

8. Cool and Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into portions.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! This casserole freezes beautifully. Once it cools, slice it into individual portions, wrap them tightly, and store in the freezer for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.

2. How long does it last in the fridge?

You can store this casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats easily in the microwave, making it perfect for meal prep.

3. Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Monterey cheese works well, but cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack would all taste great.

4. What can I add if I want more vegetables?

This recipe is easy to customize. You could sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or onions with the sausage for added flavor and nutrients.

Tips for the Best Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

• Use crispy tots: If you love a crunchy topping, try baking the tater tots separately for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole.

• Customize to taste: Feel free to swap the sausage for bacon or add extra veggies to make this dish your own.

• Don’t skip the cottage cheese: Even if you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you won’t notice it in the final dish. It just makes the eggs super creamy!

• Egg on top: I like to fry an extra egg or two and top my serving with that for even more protein.

This tater tot casserole is a total winner for busy mornings. It’s delicious and satisfying, and packs in plenty of protein to keep you going. Plus, it’s easy to tweak based on what you have on hand or what your family likes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up brunch, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy!