This Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole is a fun and tasty way to start your day! With crispy tater tots, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, it’s a breakfast dream come true!
I love how easy this recipe is—just mix everything together and bake! Perfect for lazy weekends or when you have friends over. Trust me, everyone will want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the dish! They provide a delicious crunch and serve as the base. If you want a healthier twist, try using hash browns instead. Just ensure they’re uniformly spread for even baking.
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for fluffiness. If you’re looking to reduce cholesterol, consider using egg whites or an egg replacer. These options still work well, although the texture might vary a bit.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use almond, oat, or soy milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced!
Cheddar Cheese: I like using sharp cheddar for a robust flavor. You can switch it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese if you want something a bit different. For a dairy-free version, look for plant-based cheese shreds.
Onion: While it’s optional, diced onion adds a lovely sweetness. If onions aren’t your thing, try using green onions or bell peppers for a different taste. You could also leave them out completely!
Breakfast Meat: Crumbled sausage or bacon definitely enhances flavor. For a vegetarian option, cooked mushrooms or spinach work well to bring some heartiness without meat.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Cooked Evenly?
Getting your casserole evenly cooked can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll nail it every time!
- Start with a preheated oven. This helps everything cook evenly right from the beginning.
- Make sure to bake the tater tots first. Half-baking allows them to crisp up and give texture before the egg mixture is added.
- Spread the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots. This ensures every bite gets that fluffy egg goodness.
- Check for doneness! The eggs should be fully set with no runny parts. You can use a knife to test the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting helps it hold its shape, making for prettier slices!
How to Make Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, crumbled
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 55-60 minutes to cook. You’ll spend some time baking the tater tots and the entire dish in the oven, so plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your casserole will bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking!
3. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the bottom of the baking dish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, just until they start to get crispy but aren’t fully cooked yet.
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
While the tater tots are baking, grab a large bowl. Whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion (if using), crumbled sausage or bacon (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Combine Tater Tots and Egg Mixture:
Once the tater tots are out of the oven, pour the egg mixture evenly over them. Make sure to cover them well!
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a gooey, cheesy layer on top!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. You want the egg mixture to be fully set and the cheese to be bubbling and golden.
8. Optional Sunny-Side Up Eggs:
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can crack 2-3 eggs on top of the casserole in the last 5 minutes of baking. This will create beautiful sunny-side up eggs right on your casserole!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.
10. Enjoy!
Your Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole is ready to be loved! Serve it warm and enjoy a hearty breakfast with family or friends.
This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile! Feel free to get creative and add in your favorite breakfast meats or veggies for a personal touch. Happy cooking!
Can I Substitute Fresh Potatoes for Tater Tots?
Yes, you can use freshly diced potatoes! Parboil or bake them until slightly tender before adding them to your casserole for the best texture. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly until the potatoes are fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the sausage or bacon and add some delicious veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms instead. You can also include extra cheese for added flavor!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before by assembling it, covering it tightly with foil, and storing it in the fridge. Just bake it as instructed in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.