The Only Breakfast Casserole You’ll Ever Need: Bacon, Egg & Tots
This bacon, egg, and tater tot casserole is the ultimate comfort breakfast—loaded with crispy tater tots, fluffy eggs, savory bacon, and melty cheese. Whether you're feeding a weekend crowd, prepping for the week, or serving a special holiday brunch, this one-pan breakfast bake delivers every time. It’s freezer-friendly, totally customizable, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have!
Ingredients
- 1 28–32 oz bag frozen tater tots
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 strips cooked bacon chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Step 2: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer in the dish.
- Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Step 4: Sprinkle chopped bacon and 1½ cups of cheese over the tater tots.
- Step 5: Pour egg mixture evenly over everything. Top with remaining cheese.
- Step 6: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until eggs are set and top is golden.
Notes
Secret Tips for Bacon, Egg, and Tater Tot Casserole
- Use Crisp, Dry Bacon: Make sure your bacon is fully crisped and drained before mixing it in. This prevents the casserole from turning greasy and gives you that satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Slightly Undercook Eggs for a Creamy Texture: If scrambling the eggs first, cook them just until barely set. They’ll finish baking in the oven and stay creamy instead of rubbery.
- Add Cheese Between Layers: Instead of putting all the cheese on top, add a layer between the tater tots and egg mixture. It creates a gooey center and binds everything together better.
- Preheat the Baking Dish: Place the greased dish in the oven while it preheats. When you add the tater tots, it starts crisping the bottom layer immediately—no soggy base.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 10–15 minutes after baking. It helps the layers set and makes slicing much easier.
- Sprinkle Cornmeal or Panko for Extra Crunch: Before baking, dust the top with a bit of cornmeal or seasoned panko breadcrumbs. It adds a subtle crunch and elevates the texture.
- Reheat in the Oven, Not Microwave: Reheating slices in the oven (or toaster oven) keeps the tater tots crispy. Microwaving will make them soft and soggy.
- Make It a Freezer Star: Double the recipe and bake one to freeze. Wrap cooled slices in foil, then plastic wrap, and store for up to 2 months. Great for busy mornings or new mom gifts!