Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl with Sausage Gravy

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk (plus more if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups frozen tater tots
• 4 large eggs (optional, for topping)
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the tater tots. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or follow the instructions on the package. Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The tater tots will serve as the base of the breakfast bowl, so make sure they are crispy and cooked through.
2. While the tater tots are baking, prepare the sausage gravy. In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through. If there is excess grease, drain it off, leaving a little bit to help create the gravy.
3. Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to combine. This will help thicken the gravy. Cook the sausage and flour mixture for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the fat and create a roux. The roux will give the gravy a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Slowly add the 2 1/2 cups of whole milk to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir the mixture until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. If the gravy becomes too thick, add more milk, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with garlic powder (if using), black pepper, and salt to taste. The gravy should be smooth, creamy, and flavorful.