This Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect breakfast for any day! It’s packed with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and golden tater tots that make every bite a treat.
You can’t go wrong here—who doesn’t love bacon and tots? I like to enjoy it fresh out of the oven, but leftovers (if there are any!) are great too. Just pop them in the microwave!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of the casserole! Frozen tater tots offer great texture and convenience. If you want a healthier option, try diced sweet potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes.
Bacon: I love using classic bacon for its crunchy, salty flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian alternative, use crispy cooked mushrooms or plant-based bacon.
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for this dish. If you need to substitute due to allergies, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) though the texture will vary a bit.
Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite here because it melts beautifully. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick!
How Do I Ensure My Eggs are Set and Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the eggs just right is key for a great casserole. Here’s how to ensure everything cooks evenly:
- Spread your tater tots evenly and let them bake for a bit first. This helps them crisp up before adding the egg mixture.
- When cracking the eggs, try to keep the yolks whole as they look lovely when baked. Use a gentle touch!
- Check for doneness at around 30 minutes, but don’t be afraid to give it a few extra minutes if the eggs seem soft.
- Let it cool a little before serving; it helps the casserole firm up.
With these tips, your casserole will be a hit any time of the day!
Bacon Egg And Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30 to 35 minutes to bake in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes to have this tasty breakfast ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven & Dish:
First things first, let’s get that oven hot! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layering the Tater Tots:
Now, spread the frozen tater tots out evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will be the crispy base of your casserole, so make sure they’re well-distributed.
3. Adding Bacon and Onions:
Time for the yummy stuff! Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon all over the tater tots, followed by the diced onions. This will give great flavor throughout every bite!
4. Cracking the Eggs:
Next, carefully crack the eggs evenly spaced across the casserole. Try to keep the yolks whole for a lovely presentation when baked. No worries if one cracks—everyone will still love it!
5. Mixing the Milk Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, salt, and black pepper until it’s well combined. Pour this mixture gently over the eggs and tater tots, ensuring everything is nicely moistened.
6. Topping with Cheese:
Now, let’s make it cheesy! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of your casserole for that melty goodness.
7. Baking to Perfection:
Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbling!
8. Cooling & Garnishing:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps everything settle. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and extra flavor!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Cut into squares, serve warm, and enjoy your hearty Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole! It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day.
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Unfortunately, fresh tater tots aren’t typically available, but if you make your own, just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole to achieve that crispy texture!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake—add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting cold!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even different meats like sausage. Just be sure any additional ingredients are cooked beforehand and not too watery to maintain the casserole’s texture.