Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy Recipe

Introduction

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the decadent delight of Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy. This mouthwatering recipe combines crispy, golden tater tots with a rich, savory sausage gravy, topped with a variety of delicious ingredients that take this dish to the next level. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Follow our detailed guide to create this ultimate comfort food masterpiece.

Ingredients

Tater Tots

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sausage Gravy

• 1 pound ground sausage (pork or turkey)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preparing the Tater Tots

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the tater tots to a perfect crispiness.
2. Season the tater tots: In a large mixing bowl, toss the frozen tater tots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Bake the tater tots: Spread the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.

Making the Sausage Gravy

1. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
2. Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir well to combine. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the fat from the sausage and form a roux.
3. Add the milk: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a creamy gravy.
4. Season the gravy: Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the gravy, stirring well to incorporate the seasonings. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Assembling the Dish

1. Layer the tater tots: Once the tater tots are baked to perfection, transfer them to a large serving dish or individual plates.
2. Add the sausage gravy: Generously spoon the sausage gravy over the tater tots, ensuring each tot is well-coated.
3. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the gravy-covered tater tots while the gravy is still hot, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
4. Add the final toppings: Top the dish with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast Delight

For a hearty breakfast, serve the Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. The combination of creamy sausage gravy, crispy tater tots, and savory toppings will provide a satisfying start to your day.

Brunch Spread

Include this dish in your brunch spread, paired with other brunch favorites like fresh pastries, fruit salad, and mimosas. The rich flavors and textures will complement a variety of other dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Dinner Comfort

For a comforting dinner, serve the loaded tater tots with a simple green salad and a glass of your favorite wine. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone as a main course, providing a satisfying and indulgent meal.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Sausage

Opt for high-quality sausage with a good balance of fat and seasoning. Pork sausage provides a rich, traditional flavor, while turkey sausage offers a lighter alternative. For added heat, consider using spicy sausage.

Perfecting the Gravy

To achieve the ideal gravy consistency, be patient while stirring in the milk and allowing the mixture to thicken. If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Crisping the Tater Tots

Ensure the tater tots are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even cooking and maximum crispiness. For an extra crispy texture, consider using an air fryer if available.

Customizing Toppings

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Other delicious additions include diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or even a fried egg on top for an extra touch of indulgence.

Conclusion

Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy is a delightful and indulgent dish that brings together the best elements of comfort food. With crispy tater tots, rich and savory sausage gravy, and an array of delicious toppings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it promises to deliver a satisfying and memorable dining experience.