This Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty breakfast treat! It’s filled with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and golden tater tots for a perfect start to your day.
Who doesn’t love a dish where breakfast favorites come together? I mean, tater tots for breakfast? Yes, please! It’s super easy to make, just mix and bake. Enjoying it warm with family is the best part!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are perfect for this dish because they’re crispy and easy to use. If you don’t have tater tots, you can substitute with frozen hash browns or even home-made potato cubes. Just make sure they’re cooked in advance for the right texture.
Bacon: Bacon adds delicious flavor. You could swap it for turkey bacon or even sausage if you’re looking for a different meat option. For a vegetarian dish, consider using sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for added flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend also works well. For a healthier option, try reduced-fat cheese, just keep in mind it may melt differently.
Eggs: The recipe calls for large eggs, but you can use medium eggs if that’s what’s on hand. If you want a lighter version, use egg whites or an egg substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Eggs Are Set Just Right?
Getting the eggs perfectly cooked can be tricky. Here’s how to make sure they’re done just right:
- Crack the eggs gently over the tater tots. Place them evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Keep an eye on them as they bake! If you prefer runny yolks, check them at the 25-minute mark.
- For firmer eggs, let them bake the full 35 minutes or until they look set and no longer glossy.
Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes helps the eggs finish cooking and makes serving easier, so don’t skip that step!
Bacon Egg And Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-35 minutes of baking time. So, you’re looking at a total of around 50 minutes before it’s ready to serve! Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you put the casserole in!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain the excess grease. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Assemble the Tater Tot Base:
Take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom. This will be the hearty base of your casserole!
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar cheese over the layer of tater tots. It adds flavor and a wonderful melty texture.
5. Crack the Eggs:
Now, carefully crack the eggs one-by-one and place them evenly spaced over the tater tots and cheese. Make sure to keep them apart so each egg can bake properly. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for seasoning!
6. Top with Bacon:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled bacon generously over the eggs and tater tots. It’s all about that smoky flavor!
7. Add More Cheese:
Finish it off by adding the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when it bakes!
8. Baking Time:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the eggs to be set and the cheese melted and bubbly!
9. Garnish for Flavor:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped green onions or chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness. They add a nice flavor contrast, too!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Let your casserole cool for just a few minutes before slicing into it. Then scoop out generous portions while it’s still warm. Enjoy this savory dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or a Mexican blend for added flavor. Just keep in mind that each type may melt differently!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole the night before! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of water in the microwave can help prevent drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Adding cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your casserole. Just be sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture before mixing them in!
