This Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole is a fun breakfast dish that mixes crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and golden tater tots. It’s cheesy, filling, and perfect for sharing!
You can whip this up in no time, making it a great choice for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds (and thirds)! 🍳🥓
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of this dish! Use frozen tater tots for convenience. If you want, you can substitute with hash browns or even diced potatoes, but cooking times may vary with fresh potatoes.
Bacon: I love crispy bacon for that smoky flavor! If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative works well too.
Eggs: These provide protein and richness. You can use whole eggs or swap a few for egg whites to make it lighter. If you’re vegan, a mixture of silken tofu and nutritional yeast can be a fun alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its sharp flavor. Feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If dairy-free is your goal, there are great plant-based cheese options.
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking of the Eggs?
Getting the eggs perfectly cooked is crucial for this casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven well before baking. This helps the eggs set properly.
- Make sure to whisk the eggs with the milk thoroughly. This ensures everything is combined, and the eggs cook evenly.
- When pouring the egg mixture, do it slowly and evenly over the tater tots so every bite gets that delicious flavor.
- Check for doneness toward the end. The casserole is ready when the eggs are firm and the top is golden and bubbly.
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 shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus some for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. Total time from start to finish is around 55 minutes. You’ll be enjoying a hearty breakfast in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, turn on your oven and set it to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Tater Tots:
Take the bag of frozen tater tots and spread them evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will be the base of your casserole.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and add in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and you have a nice, smooth mixture.
4. Mix in the Tasty Add-Ins:
Next, stir in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese (remember to save a bit of cheese for the top!), and the chopped green onions. This will make the mixture deliciously flavorful!
5. Combine Everything in the Dish:
Gently pour the egg and bacon mixture all over the tater tots in your baking dish. Make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite will be packed with flavor.
6. Add a Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This will add a nice, cheesy crust once it bakes!
7. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and let it bake until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Slice:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some additional chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Then, dig in and enjoy your delicious Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can substitute fresh diced potatoes or even hash browns; just be sure to pre-cook them until they are tender before adding to the casserole to ensure they cook through properly while baking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator, unbaked. In the morning, just pop it in the oven directly, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to compensate for it being cold.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor. You can also use a plant-based cheese substitute to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.