Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe – Easy, Cheesy & Perfect for Brunch

If you’re a fan of breakfast casseroles, you know how amazing they can be for satisfying a crowd, especially during those busy mornings when you want something hearty and comforting. One such crowd-pleaser that has become a go-to for families, brunch gatherings, and even holiday mornings is the beloved Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines the crispiness of golden tater tots with a creamy, savory egg mixture, turkey bacon, scallions, and plenty of melty cheese. The result? A satisfying breakfast that’s both filling and full of flavor.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about making the perfect Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole—from the ingredients and step-by-step directions to tips, variations, and storage options. Along the way, we’ll share helpful advice on how to elevate this casserole and make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a make-ahead option, or something to impress at your next brunch, you’ve come to the right place.

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Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

What makes Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole so irresistible? Let’s break it down:

1. Simple Ingredients

The recipe calls for common ingredients that are easy to find and inexpensive. With a mix of tater tots, eggs, cheese, and turkey bacon, this casserole is a one-dish wonder that will satisfy everyone.

2. Versatility

You can customize the casserole by adding your favorite veggies, meats, or even changing the type of cheese. It’s flexible enough to suit different dietary preferences and can easily be made vegetarian or gluten-free.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

Since you can make this casserole ahead of time, it’s ideal for meal prepping. Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning, or prepare it in the evening for a quick breakfast the next day.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

With its combination of savory flavors and crispy tater tots, this casserole is a surefire way to please a crowd. It’s the perfect dish for brunch gatherings, holiday meals, or family breakfasts.

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Key Ingredients for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Before diving into the recipe itself, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make up this delicious Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole.

Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon is a leaner option compared to traditional pork bacon, but it still adds that savory, smoky flavor. Chopping it up and cooking it until crispy brings texture and flavor to the casserole. If you prefer regular bacon, you can easily swap it in.

Frozen Tater Tots

Frozen tater tots serve as the base of this casserole. Their golden, crispy texture provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy egg mixture.

Eggs

The eggs are the key to making this casserole fluffy and rich. They form the custard-like base, binding all the ingredients together. You’ll need 10 large eggs to create that perfect, smooth texture.

Whole Milk & Sour Cream

Whole milk adds creaminess, while sour cream contributes a slight tang that balances the richness of the cheese and eggs. Together, they ensure the casserole is creamy and moist.

Scallions

Both the white and green parts of the scallions are used to add a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Pimientos

These diced red peppers add a sweet, tangy bite that brightens up the casserole. The small jar of diced pimientos is enough to add subtle flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Cheese

A two-cheese blend of Colby Jack cheese is used here, adding both creaminess and a mild, slightly sharp flavor. You’ll use 1½ cups of cheese in the egg mixture and the remaining ½ cup on top for a gooey, melted finish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s go step-by-step to create your perfect Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole.

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Casserole Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven is heating up, spray a 13×9-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped turkey bacon for about 6–8 minutes, or until it becomes crispy. Once it’s done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Layer the Tater Tots

Arrange half of the frozen tater tots in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. This forms the base of your casserole, ensuring that the crispy tots provide texture and a sturdy foundation.

Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sour cream, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure to whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and fully combined. Then, stir in the scallion whites, diced pimientos, chopped parsley, and 1½ cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Finally, add the crispy turkey bacon and mix everything until well combined.

Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture Over the Tater Tots

Carefully pour the egg mixture over the tater tots in the casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so that the tater tots are fully coated with the egg mixture.

Step 6: Layer the Remaining Tater Tots

Arrange the remaining tater tots on top of the casserole in a single layer. Gently press them into the egg mixture to ensure they are slightly submerged. This step helps create that golden, crispy top layer once baked.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 8: Add the Final Touch of Cheese

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top. Return it to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with the chopped scallion greens and extra parsley for a fresh, colorful touch. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

• Use fresh ingredients: Always use fresh eggs, as they create a fluffier texture.
• Pre-cook the bacon: Crisp turkey bacon in advance so it doesn’t release excess grease during baking.
• Add more cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more to both the egg mixture and the top of the casserole for an extra cheesy bite.
• Customize with vegetables: Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the flavor and nutrition.
• For a spicy kick: Consider adding a handful of chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

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Flavor Variations and Customizations

While the classic version of Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is delicious on its own, here are some fun variations to try:

Vegetarian Version

Leave out the turkey bacon and add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. This version is perfect for vegetarians and still offers a satisfying, hearty dish.

Meat Lovers Version

Swap out the turkey bacon for sausage or chopped ham for an even heartier breakfast casserole. A combination of bacon, sausage, and ham could also work for those who enjoy a meaty breakfast.

Southwestern Version

Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to give the casserole a southwestern flair. You can also spice things up with chili powder and cumin.

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing the Casserole

After enjoying your delicious Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole, you may have some leftovers. Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: If you want to freeze the casserole, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Leftovers

To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual servings, the microwave works well too—heat for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.

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FAQs About Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed.

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Definitely! Feel free to use regular bacon if you prefer. Just be sure to cook it crispy and drain any excess fat before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Tater tots are typically gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure. You can also opt for gluten-free cheese and dairy substitutes if needed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add a bit of heat, stir in some jalapeños, hot sauce, or even sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the egg mixture.

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Final Thoughts: Why This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Is a Must-Try

Whether you’re prepping breakfast for the week or putting together a show-stopping brunch spread, this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a foolproof winner. It’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and has just the right amount of crispiness to keep everyone coming back for seconds.

You can serve it alongside fresh fruit, toast, or a light green salad for a complete meal. And with how customizable it is, you can tweak it every time to keep things exciting.

So, grab those tater tots from your freezer and get baking—you’re in for one delicious, comforting breakfast that might just become your new family favorite.

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