Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a decadent and hearty dish that takes the classic comfort of tater tots to a new level. This recipe combines crispy tater tots, savory breakfast meats, eggs, and a generous amount of cheese, all baked together until golden and bubbly. Infused with the flavors of ranch seasoning for an extra kick, this casserole is the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Whether it’s a special occasion or a lavish weekend breakfast, this casserole is sure to satisfy all your comfort food cravings.
Why You’ll Love Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
- Indulgent Flavor: The combination of crispy tater tots, creamy cheese, and savory meats creates an irresistible dish.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple to assemble with minimal prep work, making it ideal for busy mornings or when you have guests.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite meats, cheeses, or veggies.
- Perfect for Groups: Serves a crowd and is always a hit at potlucks, brunches, or family gatherings.
Ingredients Notes
- Tater Tots: The base of the casserole, providing a crispy texture and hearty potato flavor.
- Eggs: Binds the casserole together and adds richness.
- Milk: Helps to create a custard-like base for the eggs and seasonings to soak into the other ingredients.
- Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for gooeyness and flavor. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese as well.
- Breakfast Meats: Cooked and crumbled bacon and breakfast sausage offer a savory depth to the dish. Ham or diced cooked chicken can also be used.
- Ranch Seasoning: Adds a unique and tangy flavor that sets this casserole apart from traditional breakfast bakes.
- Optional Add-Ins: Incorporate vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Recipe Steps
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven and lightly greasing a baking dish.
- Layer Tater Tots: Arrange a layer of frozen tater tots at the bottom of the dish.
- Combine Eggs and Seasonings: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and ranch seasoning until well combined. Stir in the cooked meats and half of the cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the tater tots. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Add any optional vegetables if using.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The oven is preferred to keep the tater tots crispy.
How to Make a Delicious Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- Frozen tater tots: 1 (32 oz) bag
- Eggs: 8 large
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cooked bacon: 1 pound, crumbled (can also use cooked breakfast sausage or diced ham)
- Ranch dressing mix: 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, cut into small cubes
- Green onions: 1/2 cup, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Tater Tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ranch dressing mix, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the Meats and Cheeses:
- Stir in the crumbled bacon (or cooked sausage/ham) and shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Pour this mixture evenly over the tater tots in the baking dish. Dot the top with cubes of cream cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
