Tater Brat Bake

Hello Everyone!
    I think you are going to like this meal today.  I was searching the internet for a different freezer meal to make.  I've been making lots with chicken lately and wanted to change it up.  I found this meal and it looked yummy:  http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/tater-brat-bake

I mostly followed the recipe, but added a few special touches!  This is a great one to double.  Make one for now and one for later.

Tater Brat Bake

Ingredients
1 package uncooked bratwurst links
1 bottle of beer (I used a malty pale ale)
12 oz water
1 can(16oz) sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
1 can(10 3/4 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted
1/2 cup milk
1 package(32oz) frozen tater tots
1 cup(4oz) shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon brown mustard
dash of nutmeg
black pepper

Directions

1.  In a large saucepan, combine bratwurst, beer, and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until a thermometer reads 160° Drain and cut into 1/4-in. slices. In the same pan, brown brats in butter over medium-high heat until crispy; drain on paper towels.

Brats spending time in the beer Jacuzzi! 

2.  Spoon sauerkraut into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.(I used 8 x 8's for this because it works better for me.) Top with brats.


3.  Combine soup, milk, mustard, nutmeg, and black pepper in a medium bowl.  Whisk up so the mixture is very smooth.  Drizzle soup mixture over the brats and sauerkraut.  Sprinkle with shredded cheese.  Top with Tater Tots.

Ready for the oven or freezer!

4.  If freezing ahead, cover well, label and freeze now.  Check out the picture below of how I label.  Date, what it is, and directions help to make life easier when its time to bake it.

Example of labeling

5.  If making for now, bake at 450° for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are lightly browned.

6.  To serve from freezer, let thaw for 24 hours in fridge. Uncover. Bake at 450° for 25-35 minutes or until potatoes are lightly browned.   

Hope you enjoy this!  Let me know if you try it and how it turned out. I'm always looking for feedback.