Imagine waking up to the smell of salty bacon and golden potatoes. This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate weekend treat for your family.
It is perfect for those lazy winter mornings when you want something hearty and warm. You can prep it quickly and let the oven do the work.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a total crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug. It combines everyone’s favorite breakfast flavors into one simple pan. Beginners will love how forgiving and easy this recipe is to follow.
It is especially great for holiday entertaining when you have extra guests. You get crispy edges and a creamy, cheesy center in every single bite. Your kids will definitely ask for second helpings of this one!
Simple Method
Making this casserole is as simple as layering and pouring. You just spread the tots, sprinkle the bacon, and add the egg mixture. It is a fail-proof way to feed a large group without stress. Even if you are new to cooking, you will master this dish easily.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or freezer.
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer in the dish.
- Distribute the crumbled bacon evenly over the tater tot layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the tots and bacon.
- Bake for 35 minutes in the center of the oven.
- Remove and sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cups of cheese over the top.
- Bake for 10 more minutes until the eggs are set and cheese bubbles.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm with a fresh fruit salad on the side. The sweetness of the fruit balances the savory bacon perfectly. For a little kick, drizzle some hot sauce over your slice. It is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy holiday brunch table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F to keep the tots nice and crispy. This makes a wonderful grab-and-go breakfast for busy weekday mornings. You can even freeze individual slices for later.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the resting time so the eggs can fully set.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor punch.
- Make sure your bacon is extra crispy before crumbling it.
- Lightly grease your pan to prevent the cheese from sticking.
- For Christmas morning, prep the bacon the night before to save time.
- Try adding a handful of fresh chives for a pop of color.
- Ensure the egg mixture is whisked until completely smooth.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the bacon for cooked breakfast sausage for a heartier flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or onions for a fresh garden twist.
- Use pepper jack cheese if you want a little extra spice.
- In the spring, add fresh chopped spinach to the egg mixture.
- Substitute milk with half-and-half for an even richer custard.
Common Questions
Can I make this the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the whole dish and refrigerate it. Just wait to add the tots until right before baking. This keeps the potatoes from getting too soggy.
How do I know when the eggs are done?
The center should not jiggle when you gently shake the pan. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean. The cheese will be golden and bubbling.
Can I use sweet potato tots?
Absolutely! Sweet potato tots add a lovely sweet and savory balance. The cooking time will remain exactly the same.
I hope this cozy breakfast brings your family together this weekend. There is nothing better than a warm meal and good company. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Tater Tot Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 lb bacon , cooked and crumbled
- 8 large egg s
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Spread the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Distribute the crumbled bacon evenly over the tater tot layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is homogeneous.
- Stir 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the tater tots and bacon in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cups of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving.
