Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy: A Comfort Food Delight

Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining crispy tater tots with savory sausage gravy. It’s perfect for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or even a satisfying dinner. This indulgent dish is easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Here’s a detailed recipe to make this delicious comfort food from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Tater Tots:

• 1 pound frozen tater tots: These will be the base of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For drizzling over the tots to ensure they get crispy.

For the Sausage Gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage: Use your favorite brand or homemade sausage.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the gravy.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the gravy.
• 2 cups whole milk: Provides the base for the gravy.
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth to the gravy.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For extra flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the sausage.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a hint of heat.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For an extra cheesy touch.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds color and freshness.

Additional Toppings (Optional):

• Cooked bacon crumbles: For added crunch and flavor.
• Sliced green onions: Adds a fresh, oniony bite.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Tater Tots:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the tater tots package (usually 425°F or 220°C).

1. Bake the Tater Tots:

• Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
• Bake according to package instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

2. Prepare the Sausage Gravy:

1. Cook the Sausage:

• In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the skillet.

1. Make the Roux:

• Add the butter to the skillet with the sausage drippings. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden.

1. Add Liquids:

• Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.

1. Season the Gravy:

• Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sausage to heat through.

3. Assemble the Dish:

1. Prepare the Base:

• Once the tater tots are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish or baking dish.

1. Top with Sausage Gravy:

• Pour the warm sausage gravy evenly over the tater tots.

1. Add Optional Cheese:

• If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the gravy.

1. Broil (Optional):

• For a cheesy finish, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.

4. Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish:

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Add any additional toppings such as cooked bacon crumbles or sliced green onions if desired.

1. Serve:

• Serve immediately while the tater tots and gravy are hot. This dish pairs well with a side of scrambled eggs or a simple green salad.

Tips for Success:

• Crispy Tater Tots: Make sure to spread the tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding for maximum crispiness.
• Thick Gravy: If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more milk or broth. If it’s too thin, cook it a little longer to thicken up.
• Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more or less of the spices based on your preference.

Conclusion:

Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy tater tots covered in a rich, savory sausage gravy, and optional cheese and toppings, this dish is sure to satisfy. Follow this recipe for a delicious, hearty meal that brings classic comfort food to a new level of deliciousness.

Enjoy your loaded tater tots with sausage gravy!

This detailed recipe guide provides everything you need to make a mouthwatering dish of Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy. Enjoy the cooking process and the delectable results!