This Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a hearty delight! With crispy tater tots, eggs, cheese, and your choice of yummy toppings, it’s a great way to start the day.
Make it on a busy morning and let your slow cooker do the work. I love how it fills the house with delicious smells while I enjoy my coffee! ☕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of your casserole! Using frozen tater tots provides that crispy texture. If you want a healthier option, try cauliflower tots, available in stores.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey sausage works great too. You could even skip the meat for a vegetarian version and add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds a fun twist. If you’re dairy-free, there are plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well too.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you don’t have any, Greek yogurt can be a fantastic substitute. It’s a bit tangy and packed with protein!
How Do You Ensure the Eggs Are Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the eggs just right can be tricky, especially in a crockpot. Here’s how to do it!
- Whisk the eggs and milk together thoroughly. This helps create a smooth texture.
- Be sure to cover the crockpot tightly during cooking. This keeps moisture in and helps the casserole cook evenly.
- Check for doneness: the eggs should be set (not wobbly) and cooked throughout when the timer goes off. If they need a bit longer, let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes.
Also, adding the cheese near the end helps to avoid overcooking, giving you that melty goodness with perfectly cooked eggs!
Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So perfect for an overnight breakfast idea!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleaning up easier later!
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Next, spread half of the frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of the crockpot. This forms a crispy base for your casserole.
3. Add the Sausage:
Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage over the layer of tater tots. This will add a savory flavor and protein to your dish.
4. Cheese it Up:
Now, generously sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage. Who doesn’t love more cheese?
5. More Tater Tots:
Add the remaining tater tots in an even layer on top. This adds more texture and completeness to the casserole.
6. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well combined. This will create a creamy, flavorful egg mixture.
7. Combine the Layers:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tater tots in the crockpot. Make sure to cover all the tots and sausage with the egg mixture.
8. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check it towards the end; you want the eggs to be fully set and the tater tots cooked through.
9. Add More Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again to let the cheese melt beautifully.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, serve the casserole warm, topping it with crumbled cooked bacon and sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy breakfast!
This recipe yields a cheesy, savory casserole, perfect for leisurely mornings or feeding a crowd! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tater tots, but keep in mind that they might not have the same crispy texture as frozen ones. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as fresh ones might require less time to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the breakfast sausage and instead add a variety of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also use a meat substitute for extra protein.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve This With?
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even biscuits for a complete breakfast spread. Enjoy!
