This fun Crack Breakfast Casserole features crispy tater tots, eggs, cheese, and a tasty mix of bacon and sausage. It’s the perfect dish to kick-start your morning!
I love how everything bakes together, making a delicious breakfast that everyone enjoys. Plus, who doesn’t love tater tots for breakfast? Sign me up! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of this dish! Frozen tater tots are easy and give a nice crispy texture. If you want a healthier option, you could use sweet potato tots or even hash browns for a different twist.
Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding everything together. For a lighter version, consider using egg whites or a dairy-free substitute like silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for extra flavor, but you can mix it up! Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of your favorites work well too.
Bacon and Sausage: Crispy bacon and savory sausage add great flavor. Want a vegetarian option? Try using crumbled tempeh or cooked mushrooms for that hearty taste without the meat.
Green Onions: These are perfect for garnish! If you don’t have them, fresh parsley or even chives can brighten up the dish nicely.
How Do You Ensure the Eggs Are Fully Cooked?
Getting the eggs just right is crucial for this casserole. Here’s how to ensure everything is cooked evenly:
- Start by whisking your egg mixture thoroughly. This helps break up the yolks and combines everything for consistent cooking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is good to go!
- Let it cool a bit before serving. This allows the casserole to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Trust me, patience pays off and you’ll have a fantastic breakfast that everyone will ask for again! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Crack Breakfast Casserole Tater Tot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crack Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes to cool before serving. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 5-10 minutes for a delicious, hearty breakfast fit for a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Take your frozen tater tots and arrange them in a single layer on the bottom of the greased baking dish. This creates a crispy base for the casserole.
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the 8 eggs and add the 1 cup of milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will help season the eggs perfectly!
4. Add the Meat:
Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon and half of the crumbled sausage over the tater tots. Make sure to spread them out evenly for every bite to have some meaty goodness.
5. Pour on the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the tater tots and meat. Spread it out gently with a spatula if needed, so it covers everything.
6. Top with Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, making it nice and cheesy!
7. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; it’s done when the egg is fully set and the cheese is all melted and bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up a bit more. Now, garnish it with the chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
9. Enjoy!
Slice it up and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty and cheesy Crack Breakfast Casserole with your family and friends! It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh homemade tater tots if you have them! Just make sure to par-cook them slightly before layering in the casserole, as frozen tots help maintain that crispy texture while baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk or an extra sprinkle of cheese for added creaminess!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just ensure you cover it well. Bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Other Meats Can I Use?
If you want to switch things up, try using cooked ham, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage. You could also leave out the meat altogether for a delicious meatless option!
