Breakfast Bowls with Sausage Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sausage gravy is a southern classic, and when paired with crispy potatoes, creamy eggs, and gooey cheddar cheese, it transforms into an indulgent breakfast bowl that’s hard to resist. The savory breakfast sausage gravy is rich and comforting, while the tater tots (or fries) provide a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy gravy and eggs. It’s a complete meal in one bowl, and it’s customizable to your liking with optional spices like cayenne pepper or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• ½ cup flour
• 3-5 cups milk
• Pinch of pepper flakes (optional)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 dozen eggs
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (25 oz) bag tater tots, french fries, or similar (about 6 cups)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Tater Tots (or Fries): Preheat your oven and cook the tater tots (or french fries) according to the package instructions. Alternatively, you can fry them if you prefer a crispier texture. Set aside once cooked.
2. Make the Sausage Gravy: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat. Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly add 3-5 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens (the amount of milk will depend on your preferred consistency). Season with salt, pepper, pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes and set aside.
3. Scramble the Eggs: In a separate pan, scramble the eggs over medium heat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once scrambled, remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Bowls: In each serving bowl, place a portion of cooked tater tots (or fries) as the base. Top with a generous amount of scrambled eggs, followed by the sausage gravy.
5. Finish the Bowls: Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top and serve immediately while hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the breakfast sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sausage gravy to give it a spicy kick.
• Add Veggies: Sauté bell peppers, onions, or spinach and toss them in with the scrambled eggs for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Try using a different cheese, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, and tater tots separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat each component in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. For the sausage gravy, you may need to add a splash of milk to bring it back to the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage gravy and scrambled eggs ahead of time and refrigerate them. Assemble the bowls and cook the tater tots just before serving.

2. Can I use frozen hash browns instead of tater tots?

Yes, frozen hash browns work great in this recipe. Just cook them according to package instructions, and they’ll make a perfect base for your breakfast bowl.

3. Can I make the sausage gravy without milk?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk, but the consistency and flavor may change slightly.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make it spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, add more pepper flakes, or use a spicy sausage for the gravy.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can swap the sharp cheddar for a milder cheese like mozzarella, or a spicier cheese like pepper jack.

7. Can I use scrambled eggs from a carton?

Yes, scrambled eggs from a carton can be used in place of freshly cracked eggs. Just follow the instructions on the carton for cooking.

8. How do I prevent the gravy from getting too thick?

If the gravy becomes too thick, simply add a little more milk to thin it out until it reaches your desired consistency.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sausage gravy and scrambled eggs for up to 1 month. Just make sure to store them separately in freezer-safe containers.

10. What can I serve on the side with this breakfast bowl?

Consider serving fresh fruit, a side of toast, or even a refreshing smoothie to balance out the richness of the breakfast bowl.

Conclusion

These Breakfast Bowls with Sausage Gravy are the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your hunger and warm you up on any morning. With a base of crispy tater tots or fries, creamy sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is both filling and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch or simply craving a comforting breakfast, these bowls will quickly become a favorite.

Print