This Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole is a breakfast dream come true! Packed with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and golden tater tots, it’s hearty and satisfying.
What’s not to love about a dish that combines all your breakfast favorites? I make it for brunch, and everyone leaves happy—no one can resist a cheesy, crispy bite! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the cornerstone of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with sweet potato tots or even roasted diced potatoes for a different twist.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cooked mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative to keep the flavor profile exciting!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste. If you want something milder, go for Monterey Jack or Mozzarella. You can even mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor!
Eggs: These provide the dish’s protein and fluffiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using flax eggs or a substitute like silken tofu, though it will change the texture a bit.
How Do You Ensure the Eggs Cook Perfectly?
Getting perfectly baked eggs in your casserole is crucial. To avoid rubbery eggs, whip your egg mixture well to incorporate air. This makes fluffy eggs!
- Mix eggs with milk thoroughly for an even blend.
- Pour the mixture over the tater tots slowly for even coverage.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to firm up and makes serving easier. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Bacon Egg And Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 slices 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, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and you’ll need around 50-55 minutes in total, including the baking time. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Now, take the frozen tater tots and arrange them in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they begin to get crispy. You’ll love the smell!
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the tater tots are baking, cook your bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once crispy, remove from heat, let it cool a bit, and then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside!
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the mixture is well combined; this is what will make your casserole fluffy!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
After the tater tots have baked, take them out of the oven. Sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots evenly. Next, pour the egg mixture over the tater tots and cheese. Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want that golden perfection!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with the chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor before serving.
Enjoy this hearty and cheesy breakfast casserole that features crispy tater tots, savory bacon, melted cheddar, and fluffy baked eggs! It’s perfect for family brunch or special occasions!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can! Simply peel and dice fresh potatoes into small cubes, then parboil them for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender. Drain and let them cool before layering them in the baking dish. They might take a bit longer to bake, so keep an eye on them!
Can I Prep This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time in the morning to ensure everything is heated through.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No worries! You can substitute bacon with cooked sausage, diced ham, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version. Just make sure any substitute is cooked through before adding it to the casserole.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help keep it moist!
