This Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole is a fun way to start your day! It’s filled with fluffy eggs, crispy tater tots, and cheese, all baked together to make a tasty dish.
Who doesn’t love tater tots for breakfast? I like to add some veggies or bacon for extra flavor. It’s easy to make ahead and perfect for brunch with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These little gems are the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using frozen diced potatoes instead. Alternatively, you can make your own tater tots from scratch for a homemade touch.
Eggs: You can use large eggs as specified, but consider egg whites or egg substitutes for a healthier twist. This can lower the calorie count while still providing protein.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk gives richness, but unsweetened almond milk or oat milk works well for a dairy-free version. I prefer whole milk for a creamier texture!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese is also a great alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Meat and Vegetables: Optional ingredients like sausage or bell peppers add flavor. If you’re vegetarian, skip the meat or try adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Set Eggs in Your Casserole?
Getting the eggs perfectly set is key to a great casserole. Here are some tips:
- Whisk the eggs and milk together well, as a good mix ensures even cooking.
- Don’t skip the initial baking of tater tots; it gives a crispy base that helps prevent sogginess.
- Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. The eggs should be puffed up and firm in the center.
- Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps stabilize it before serving.
Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
Seasoning:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes overall. A few minutes for prep, then just bake and enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color. Don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks!
2. Prepare the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly in the greased baking dish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they start to get crispy and golden brown. This step adds texture to your casserole!
3. Whisk the Eggs:
While the tater tots bake, grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Aim for a nice, fluffy mixture—this is what makes your casserole light and delicious!
4. Mix in Optional Ingredients:
If you’re adding cooked sausage or bacon, along with green bell pepper and onion, stir them into the egg mixture now. This adds flavor and heartiness to your dish—yummy!
5. Combine Layers:
When the tater tots are done, take them out of the oven and pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of everything for that gooey, cheesy goodness!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake it for another 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set and the top is beautifully golden. The smell will fill your kitchen—so good!
7. Add More Cheese:
Once baked, take the casserole out and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Let it stand for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly. It’s the best part!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Slice it up and enjoy a comforting breakfast or brunch with family and friends!
This casserole is a wonderful mix of crispy tater tots, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese. It’s sure to be a hit at your breakfast table. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can! If you prefer fresh potatoes, cut them into small cubes and season them with salt and pepper before baking. Just be sure to pre-cook them a bit to ensure they get crispy before adding your egg mixture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage or bacon and use more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead. They’ll add great flavor and nutrition without sacrificing taste!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
