For an extra touch of indulgence, you can even sprinkle additional cheese on top of the eggs before serving, allowing it to melt into the hot, runny yolks for an extra cheesy experience.
6. Eggs
Eggs are a quintessential component of any breakfast, and they add a rich, creamy element to the Southern-style tater tot sausage breakfast bowl. You can cook the eggs to your liking—whether you prefer them scrambled, fried, or sunny-side-up. The runny yolk from a fried egg, for example, adds a delicious richness to the dish, mixing with the gravy and creating a velvety sauce that enhances the flavors of the tater tots and sausage.
7. Chives (Optional)
Freshly chopped chives are an optional garnish for this dish, but they add a pop of color and a fresh, oniony flavor that cuts through the richness of the gravy and cheese. You can also use other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if you prefer. The addition of fresh herbs helps to balance out the heaviness of the dish and provides a bright, refreshing contrast to the warm, savory flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions for the Perfect Breakfast Bowl
Now that we’ve broken down the ingredients and their roles in this recipe, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this Southern-style tater tot sausage breakfast bowl with gravy. This is a relatively simple recipe to prepare, but the end result is nothing short of extraordinary.
Step 1: Cook the Tater Tots
Begin by cooking the tater tots according to the package instructions. You can bake them in the oven for a crispy texture, or if you prefer a quicker method, you can fry them in a deep fryer or on the stovetop. Either way, you’ll want the tots to be golden brown and crispy on the outside while still fluffy on the inside. Once they’re done, set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the breakfast sausage. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks, allowing it to brown and cook through. Once the sausage is fully cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, add the flour to the sausage drippings and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking to combine. Continue to cook the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Breakfast Bowl
To assemble the breakfast bowls, start by placing a layer of crispy tater tots at the bottom of each bowl. Top with a generous amount of cooked sausage, followed by a ladle of creamy gravy. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and then add the cooked eggs. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the breakfast bowls immediately, and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors of this Southern-style breakfast dish. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple mixed greens salad to balance out the richness, and enjoy with a cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for the perfect breakfast experience.
Customizing the Southern Style Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl
While this Southern-style tater tot sausage breakfast bowl is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. You can also add a handful of spinach for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some hot sauce, jalapeños, or spicy sausage to the dish for a flavorful kick.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
The Southern Style Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Bowl with Gravy is a comfort food classic that brings together all the best elements of a hearty breakfast. The combination of crispy tater tots, savory sausage, creamy gravy, melted cheese, and runny eggs makes this dish a satisfying and indulgent way to start the day. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch, a special family breakfast, or even as a make-ahead meal for busy mornings, this recipe is sure
