Here’s a recipe for Loaded Tater Tots with Sausage Gravy — a hearty and comforting dish that combines crispy tater tots with rich sausage gravy, topped with all the fixings.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (ground pork sausage)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2–3 cups whole milk (adjust for desired thickness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Tater Tots:
- 1 bag (28 oz) frozen tater tots
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking the tater tots)
Toppings (optional but recommended):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
1. Bake the Tater Tots:
- Preheat your oven according to the tater tots package instructions (usually 425°F/220°C).
- Arrange tater tots on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy (about 20-25 minutes). You can use cooking spray or olive oil to enhance crispiness.
2. Make the Sausage Gravy:
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Cook until it’s no longer pink and is browned (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove sausage and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture (roux) is slightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, starting with 2 cups. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Add more milk if needed to reach your preferred thickness.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Return the cooked sausage to the gravy and stir to combine. Keep warm on low heat.
3. Assemble the Loaded Tater Tots:
- Once the tater tots are crispy, remove them from the oven.
- Pour the sausage gravy over the tater tots.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
- If desired, drizzle with sour cream and hot sauce.
4. Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy! You can adjust the toppings to your preference and even serve with a fried egg on top for an extra indulgent twist.
Let me know if you’d like any adjustments!