This Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole is a fun and hearty dish! It features crispy tater tots mixed with fluffy eggs, cheese, and your choice of veggies or meats. Easy to bake and perfect for a crowd!
Start your day with a smile as you dig into this delicious breakfast. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and honestly, who can resist a dish with tater tots? I sure can’t! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of the show! You can use any brand of frozen tater tots. If you want a healthier twist, try using sweet potato tater tots or even hash browns instead.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork breakfast sausage for its flavor. You can substitute turkey sausage or crumbled plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for this casserole because it melts beautifully. Mix it up with Monterey Jack for more zest, or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Eggs: Large eggs are standard in this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using egg whites or a vegan egg substitute to reduce cholesterol.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the right bake time is crucial for a delicious casserole. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven! Starting with a hot oven helps everything cook evenly.
- Make sure you cook the sausage thoroughly before baking. Drain excess grease to avoid sogginess.
- Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 10 minutes. If the cheese is getting too brown, cover it with foil.
- Use a toothpick or knife to check if the egg is set in the center. It should come out clean, indicating it’s cooked through.
Don’t forget the optional sunny egg on top for that extra touch! Adjust cooking time based on how runny you like your yolk. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (or ground beef/turkey)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This hearty breakfast casserole takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy family breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from the start!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned. After it’s cooked, add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté until the onion is translucent and the peppers are tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain off any excess grease so your casserole doesn’t turn out soggy.
3. Assemble the Base:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the bottom. This layer adds great flavor and protein to the casserole!
4. Layer the Tater Tots:
Now, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the sausage. This forms a crispy, golden top that everyone will love!
5. Whisk Up the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. This is your creamy, flavorful base that brings everything together.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots, making sure all the tots are covered.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This will melt beautifully as it bakes!
8. Bake It:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tater tots are golden brown.
9. Optional Egg Topping:
If you like, crack an egg on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. It will give a lovely presentation and an extra layer of deliciousness!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor before slicing and serving. Enjoy your hearty breakfast!
This Tater Tot Egg Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines crispy, cheesy, and savory elements! Perfect for feeding a crowd while keeping everyone happy and satisfied.
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots Directly?
Absolutely! There’s no need to thaw the tater tots before using them in this recipe. Just place them straight from the freezer onto the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer a lighter option or are looking for a vegetarian choice. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.
