Tater tots loaded with creamy sausage sauce

★Ingredients

For the Tater Tots:

• 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots

For the Creamy Sausage Sauce:

1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Toppings:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)

1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)

Hamburger casserole recipe

Cheese stuffed bread recipe

★Instructions

Preparing the Tater Tots:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the frozen tater tots in an even layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Making the Creamy Sausage Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Push the cooked sausage to one side of the skillet and add the butter to the other side. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle the flour over it and whisk to combine, creating a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
6. Mix the cooked sausage back into the sauce.

Assembling the Loaded Tater Tots:

1. Remove the baked tater tots from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
2. Pour the creamy sausage sauce evenly over the tater tots.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
4. Add a dollop of sour cream in the center, and garnish with chopped green onions, bacon bits, and diced tomatoes if desired.

enjoy!