Description
This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and easy-to-make dish perfect for a family brunch or a comforting weekend breakfast. Featuring layers of crispy tater tots, savory sausage or ham, and a rich custard of eggs, milk, and cream, all topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cream
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1.5 lbs tater tots (thawed; can substitute hashbrown patties or shredded/diced hashbrowns)
- 1/2 lb sausage or ham, cooked and chopped
- 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and ½ tsp kosher salt, and sauté until the onions turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and transfer the onions to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Custard: In the same bowl with the sautéed onions, whisk together 1 cup milk, 1 cup cream, 6 large eggs, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Add the remaining ½ tsp kosher salt and stir until fully combined. Optionally, fold in the cooked and chopped sausage or ham.
- Prepare Casserole Base: Spread the thawed tater tots evenly in an 8-cup baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the tater tots, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly when the dish is gently shaken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Garnish with freshly minced parsley or chives before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute tater tots with hashbrown patties or shredded/diced hashbrowns if desired.
- Use cooked sausage, ham, or skip meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Ensure the casserole is fully set before removing from the oven to avoid a runny center.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps it firm up for easier slicing.
- Feel free to add additional herbs or spices like black pepper or paprika for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
