Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on a large baking sheet. It's important not to overcrowd the pan, as this helps them get extra crispy. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
- While the tots are baking, place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Do not drain the fat! The rendered fat is essential for making the gravy.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and its drippings. Stir constantly for about one minute until the flour is fully incorporated and has had a chance to cook slightly. This step is crucial for avoiding a raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. This is the secret to a smooth, lump-free gravy. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, usually about 5-7 minutes. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce the heat to low to keep it warm.
- In a separate non-stick skillet, cook the eggs to your preference. Fried, sunny-side up, or over-easy are fantastic choices as the runny yolk creates a delicious sauce. You can also scramble them if you prefer.
- Once the tater tots are crispy, divide them among four bowls. Ladle a generous amount of the warm sausage gravy over the tots. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, then top each bowl with a cooked egg. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
For the best results, ensure the tater tots are baked until deep golden brown and crispy. To make lump-free gravy, cook the flour and fat for a full minute before slowly whisking in the milk. The gravy can be made up to two days in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days and are best reheated in the oven.
