This Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole is a tasty mix of crispy tater tots, fluffy eggs, and crunchy bacon. It’s the perfect dish for any breakfast or brunch feast!
I love how easy it is to prepare this casserole. Just layer everything and pop it in the oven. It’s always a hit at gatherings, and who can resist tater tots? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the base of your casserole, giving it that delicious crunch. If you can’t find tater tots, try using diced hash browns or frozen French fries for a different texture.
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for flavor, but if you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Eggs: Large eggs provide the fluffiness in the casserole. If you have an egg allergy or want a lighter option, you can use egg substitutes or a mix made from egg whites.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness. However, feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or Colby-Jack for a milder taste or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do You Ensure the Eggs are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the eggs just right is key to a tasty casserole. Here’s how to make sure they set without overcooking:
- Mix the eggs and milk thoroughly, ensuring no yolk bits remain.
- Let the first layer of egg mixture soak into the tater tots. This way, the base gets flavorful and moist.
- Watch the baking time carefully; every oven is different! Start checking around 30 minutes. The eggs are done when they no longer jiggle and look firm.
Resting the casserole for a few minutes after baking helps the eggs set, making it easier to cut into slices. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Bacon Egg And Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then another 35-40 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at roughly 55-60 minutes total. In no time, you’ll have a hearty breakfast ready to delight everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of your greased casserole dish. This crunchy base is what makes the casserole so delightful!
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined for a smooth and airy texture in your casserole.
4. Pour and Soak:
Carefully pour half of the egg mixture over the tater tots. This allows the tater tots to soak up some flavor, ensuring each bite is delicious!
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and egg mixture. Then, add your crumbled bacon evenly over the cheese layer for some savory goodness.
6. Finish with the Remaining Ingredients:
Pour the rest of the egg mixture over the bacon and tater tots. Finally, top it all off with the remaining shredded cheese for that gooey, melty finish.
7. Bake Your Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Now everything is ready for you and your loved ones to enjoy!
Dig in and relish every bite of this hearty and satisfying breakfast casserole filled with crispy tater tots, savory bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh potatoes! Just dice them into small cubes, parboil them until slightly tender, and then layer them in the dish. Keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted to ensure the potatoes are fully cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave in individual portions or warm up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your casserole! You could add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté any fresh veggies before adding them to the layers for the best results.
