This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a fun and hearty dish! Packed with fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and golden tater tots, it’s sure to make mornings better.
My family loves how easy it is to whip up, and it fills everyone up! Plus, who can resist gooey cheese on top? Perfect for those “just five more minutes” mornings! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of the dish! Frozen tater tots are convenient and add a nice crunchy texture. If you want a healthier option, you could switch to sweet potato tots or make your own baked potato cubes.
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for that meaty flavor. Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also try sausage or skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy flavor that I adore. However, feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella would work well. Just ensure it’s a good melting cheese!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and richness. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can easily replace sour cream. It will offer the same tangy flavor!
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking and Great Texture?
Getting the layers right is crucial for a delicious casserole! Start by baking the tater tots first. This pre-cooking helps them get that crispy exterior before you add the wet ingredients.
- Spread out the tater tots evenly in your baking dish for an even bake.
- Don’t rush the egg mixture—whisk until smooth for a fluffy texture.
- Let the casserole rest after baking! This helps everything set and makes serving easier.
Using these techniques, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked casserole that everyone will love! 😊
Crack Breakfast Casserole Tater Tot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 oz bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 55 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 1 hour and 10 minutes. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for your casserole.
2. Prepare the Tater Tots:
Next, spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will create a crunchy base that everyone will love! Place the dish in the oven and bake the tater tots for about 20 minutes, or until they are partially cooked and starting to get crispy.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
While your tater tots are baking, take a mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth; this will give your casserole a fluffy texture.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Once the tater tots are done, take the dish out of the oven. Evenly sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots, then pour the egg mixture over the top. It’s okay if it pools a little; that’s part of it!
5. Add Bacon and Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the egg mixture for that delicious, smoky flavor. Top it off by adding the remaining cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake it for another 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
7. Let it Rest and Serve:
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This time allows the casserole to set a little, making it easier to slice and serve. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy this savory, cheesy, and crispy tater tot breakfast casserole that’s perfect for any morning gathering!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes Instead of Tater Tots?
Absolutely! You can use diced and cooked potatoes, hash browns, or even sweet potato cubes in place of tater tots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep this casserole the night before! Simply assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as instructed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or back in the oven until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Adding veggies like diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms is a great way to boost the flavor and nutrition of the casserole. Just sauté any raw vegetables before adding them to ensure they cook properly!