This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for weekend brunch, holiday gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Full of crispy tater tots and two kinds of cheese, it’s a simple yet delicious recipe everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make, with minimal prep time, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best breakfast ingredients into one comforting dish. The tater tots provide a crispy, golden base, while the cheese creates a savory flavor that complements the richness of the eggs and sour cream. It’s a quick recipe to throw together, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or when hosting family and friends. The casserole is easy to customize, and you can even make it ahead of time to save yourself some work on busy mornings. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a delight, and the dish is large enough to feed a group, so it’s perfect for gatherings or meal prepping.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
1 30-32 ounce bag frozen tater tots
-
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
-
8 large eggs
-
1/2 cup milk
-
1 cup sour cream
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon pepper
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
-
1-2 teaspoons hot sauce, optional
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
-
Place the frozen tater tots, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese into the prepared baking dish. Toss everything together to combine.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce (if using).
-
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tot mixture in the baking dish.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set.
-
Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
-
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
-
Prep time: 5 minutes
-
Cook time: 45 minutes
-
Total time: 50 minutes
-
Servings: 12
Variations
-
Vegetarian version: Replace the cheese with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach for a vegetarian-friendly breakfast casserole.
-
Spicy version: Add more hot sauce or jalapeños to give the dish an extra kick.
-
Different meats: You can swap in cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover turkey for a unique twist.
-
Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack for some heat or Swiss for a milder flavor.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
-
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, or place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tater tots, but frozen tater tots hold up better during baking and ensure that the casserole gets a crispy texture.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
3. Can I freeze Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.
4. What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It will provide a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
5. Can I make this casserole without cheese?
While cheese adds great flavor and creaminess, you can make the casserole without it if you prefer. Consider adding extra sour cream or a creamy substitute to keep the dish moist.
6. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté the veggies first to prevent them from releasing too much moisture.
7. How can I make the casserole spicier?
To add more spice, you can increase the amount of hot sauce or add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
8. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tater tots, this casserole can be a gluten-free option.
9. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when it is golden brown on top, and a knife or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crisp, and the cheese should be melted.
10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitutes. There are many options available that will still allow you to enjoy a creamy, flavorful casserole.
Conclusion
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all your favorite breakfast flavors in one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for a weekend brunch or meal prepping for the week, this casserole will surely become a family favorite. With its crispy tater tots, savory cheese, and creamy richness, it’s a satisfying meal that’s as convenient as it is delicious. Enjoy!
