There’s something magical about a hearty breakfast casserole that brings the whole family to the table with eager appetites. This Bacon, Egg, and Tater Tot Casserole combines three beloved breakfast favorites into one deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for weekend brunches or holiday mornings.
With crispy tater tots creating a satisfying base, savory bacon adding smoky flavor, and fluffy eggs binding everything together, this casserole hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of crowd-pleasing comfort food that disappears quickly and leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This
- Make-ahead friendly – assemble the night before and bake in the morning
- Customizable with your favorite cheese or additional vegetables
- Perfect balance of crispy texture and creamy egg interior
- Kid-approved breakfast that adults equally enjoy
- Hearty enough to keep everyone satisfied until lunch
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and carefully grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy serving and prevent sticking.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a crispy, golden base for your casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard (if using) until smooth and well combined with no streaks of egg white remaining.
- Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon evenly over the tater tots. Then spread both types of shredded cheese over the bacon layer for a rich flavor profile.
- Slowly and carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over everything in the dish, moving slowly to ensure it gets between the tater tots and other ingredients.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the eggs are completely set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps it set and makes cutting and serving easier.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1/2 cup of diced jalapeños.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
- For a meat lover’s version, add 1/2 cup of diced ham or cooked breakfast sausage.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated, just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
- For extra crispy tater tots, pre-bake them for 10 minutes before adding the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad and some toasted sourdough bread. For a more elaborate brunch spread, serve alongside a light green salad and mimosas for the adults.
Don’t forget to offer hot sauce, salsa, or sour cream on the side for guests to customize their portions to taste. A dollop of guacamole also makes a delicious topping!
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- The casserole is done when the center reaches 160°F and doesn’t jiggle when gently shaken.
- For best results, allow frozen tater tots to thaw for 15 minutes before assembling the casserole.
FAQs
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, thaw completely before baking. If freezing after baking, thaw and reheat covered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
While tater tots give this casserole its signature texture, you can substitute 4 cups of shredded hash browns. The texture will be different but still delicious.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set (not runny) and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.
[recipe_card]
