This Bacon Egg and Tater Tot Casserole is a tasty mix of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and golden tater tots. It’s like breakfast and comfort food rolled into one!
What’s not to love? You can make it ahead for a busy morning, and it’s perfect for brunch with friends. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These form the base of your casserole and give it a great texture. If you can’t find tater tots, try using hash browns or even diced hashbrowns for a different twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds flavor and texture. While I love using regular bacon, turkey bacon works well too if you want a lighter option. Just cook it until crisp for the best results!
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for this dish as they provide volume. If you’re looking for a lower cholesterol option, you can use egg whites or an egg substitute instead. You’ll need about 2/3 cup of egg substitute for every 4 eggs.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my go-to for that classic flavor. If you prefer a stronger taste, try using sharp cheddar. For a different cheese experience, Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice kick!
How Do I Ensure the Eggs are Set Just Right?
Getting the eggs just right can be tricky. Here’s how to make sure they are cooked perfectly:
- Mix your eggs and milk well until fully combined. This aerates them, contributing to a fluffier texture.
- Check on the casserole toward the end of baking. The edges should pull away from the dish slightly and the center should no longer jiggle.
- If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil and continue baking until set.
Letting it sit a few minutes after baking helps it firm up even more. This ensures every scoop holds together nicely!
Bacon Egg And Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at roughly 55-60 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to make sure the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the delicious base of our casserole.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet, let it drain on some paper towels, and then crumble it into small pieces for easy mixing.
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley flakes (if using). Make sure everything is well combined.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots first. Then, evenly scatter the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole. This will soak through and bring everything together.
7. Add the Remaining Cheese:
Top off your casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese to create a tasty melted layer on top.
8. Bake it to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You want the eggs to be set and the cheese to be melted and bubbly—yum!
9. Cool and Serve:
When it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This gives it time to firm up a bit for easier serving.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions over the top before serving for a nice touch of color and flavor.
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy, bacon-loaded breakfast casserole with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Tater Tots?
Yes! If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can dice them into small cubes and parboil them until slightly tender. Spread them in the baking dish before adding the other layers, but keep an eye on the baking time as fresh potatoes may take a bit longer to cook.
What Can I Use Instead of Milk?
If you’re looking for a milk substitute, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can work well. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety to keep the flavor balance of the dish intact.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor. You could also use vegetarian bacon alternatives if you want that smoky taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
