Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner! This easy-to-make casserole combines crispy tater tots, eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats and vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. It’s great for feeding a large group and can be prepared ahead of time!

Ingredients List

For the Casserole

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon (crumbled)
• 1 cup bell peppers (diced)
• 1/2 cup onion (diced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Timing

Preparing Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and 45-50 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 1 hour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley (if using).
2. Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the frozen tater tots in an even layer.
3. Add Fillings: Sprinkle the cooked sausage or bacon, diced bell peppers, and onions over the tater tots. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Finally, layer the remaining tater tots on top.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the tater tots are golden brown.

Step 4: Serve

1. Cool and Slice: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	16g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Mix different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Meat Options: Substitute the sausage or bacon with ham, turkey, or leave it out for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole pairs well with:

• Fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing side.
• A simple green salad for added crunch and nutrition.
• Hot sauce or salsa for those who like a bit of heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Dish: Make sure to spread the ingredients evenly to ensure even cooking.
2. Not Letting It Cool: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing to help it hold its shape.
3. Skipping the Greasing Step: Grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

In just about 1 hour, you can create Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole, a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its crispy tater tots, savory fillings, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What type of tater tots should I use?

You can use regular or seasoned tater tots, depending on your preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables or beans for protein.