Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! I can’t tell you how many lazy Sunday mornings have been transformed into something special with this Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Seriously, I mean, who could say no to crispy tater tots, savory bacon, and gooey cheese all baked together into one glorious dish?
This casserole isn’t just a feast for your taste buds; it’s also a time saver! Just throw the ingredients together and let the oven do the work. Plus, it’s perfect for brunch gatherings, lazy weekends, or even cozy breakfast-for-dinner nights. I remember the first time I made this, I was trying to impress a few friends after a long night out, and it was a total hit. Ever since then, it’s been a staple in my breakfast repertoire! Let’s get started.
What’s in Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?
Frozen Tater Tots: The star of the show! I usually go for a 32 oz bag because honestly, who can ever have too many tater tots? They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—pure breakfast gold.
Bacon: One pound of cooked and chopped bacon adds that salty, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. I mean, bacon makes everything better, right? I often cook mine until crispy to get those perfect bites.
Cheddar Cheese: Who doesn’t love a cup of shredded cheddar cheese? It melts perfectly over the casserole, creating a beautiful cheesy topping. I prefer sharp cheddar for extra flavor, but you could use mild if that’s more your style.
Ranch Dressing: This is where the “cracked out” goodness comes from! Just half a cup gives the casserole a tangy, creamy texture and really elevates the flavor profile. Hidden Valley is my go-to for ranch dressing here.
Eggs: Six large eggs provide structure and richness, tying all these lovely ingredients together.
Milk: A half cup of milk keeps the eggs fluffy and light. I use whole milk, but feel free to substitute with whatever milk you have on hand.
Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch of salt and a few cracks of pepper enhance all the flavors. Seasoning is key, so taste as you go!
Green Onions (optional): For a pop of color and a hint of freshness, I like to slice up a few green onions to sprinkle on top before serving. It’s totally optional but definitely adds a lovely touch.
Is Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Good for You?
If you’re looking for something wholesome, then this casserole might not be your healthiest option—it’s definitely a treat! But let’s highlight the positives:
Bacon: While it’s higher in fat, bacon also provides protein. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re trying to watch your intake.
Eggs: They’re packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. This casserole has a good dose of eggy goodness to keep you full and satisfied.
Tater Tots: These give the dish some carbs, perfect for a hearty start to your day. If you want to make it a tad healthier, you might substitute with sweet potato tater tots or even hash browns!
In moderation, this casserole can fit into a balanced diet, especially if you’re planning to share it with family or friends. Just remember, a little indulgence now and then never hurt anyone!
Ingredients
– 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
– 1 lb bacon, cooked and chopped
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
*Serves: About 8 hearty portions*
How to Make Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ranch dressing, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then spread an even layer of frozen tater tots over the bottom.
4. Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the layer of tater tots.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots and bacon.
6. Top it all off with the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs have set and the cheese looks bubbly and golden.
8. Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’d like, garnish with sliced green onions for an extra fresh kick.
9. Slice into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole!
Brunch Bliss: Tips and Variations
Oh, there are so many ways to customize this casserole! You can swap out the bacon for sausage or ham. If you’re looking to up your veggie game, try adding some sautéed bell peppers or spinach into the mix. And if you want to make it even cheesier, feel free to mix different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
If you want leftovers (if there’s even any!), cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. It’s great reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast during the week.
So, there you have it! I really can’t recommend this Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole enough. It’s comfort food at its best, and I just know you’re going to love it. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
