Tater Tot, Cheese, and Sausage Breakfast

Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound breakfast sausage (bulk, not in casings)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can (about 15 ounces) of tater tots
6 large eggs
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Sausage:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess fat if needed.
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Casserole Mixture:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:

In a large glass baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread out the cooked sausage, onion, and bell pepper mixture evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the sausage mixture.
Arrange the tater tots evenly over the top of the cheese layer.
Pour Egg Mixture:

Carefully pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the tater tots. The liquid should seep through and around the tater tots.
Bake:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown and crispy.
If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Cool and Garnish:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve:

Cut into squares and serve warm. This casserole makes a great breakfast or brunch dish and is perfect for feeding a crowd.
Tips:
Customize: Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, mushrooms, or spinach to customize the casserole to your taste.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.