Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole – Wake up to the delightful aroma and flavors of our Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole! This dish is a fusion of crispy tater tots, savory bacon, and the creamy zest of ranch seasoning. A perfect blend of American breakfast favorites with the key ingredients being tater tots, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
The first time I made this casserole was on a chilly winter morning. I remember wanting something hearty, warm, and fulfilling for breakfast. To my surprise, not only did I enjoy every bite, but my husband called it “breakfast perfection,” and my little one couldn’t stop asking for seconds! It was that day I realized; this isn’t just a dish, it’s a morning experience.
What makes this Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole truly special?
Dive into a casserole that’s the epitome of flavor fusion, combining crispy tater tots with savory bacon and the zest of ranch seasoning. Whether you’re planning a relaxed breakfast or a bustling brunch gathering, its versatility shines through. And for those busy mornings or planned events? Prep it the night before, refrigerate it, and simply bake it fresh when you’re ready. Convenience, taste, and versatility—all rolled into one.
What You Need To Make This Cracked-Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Bacon: For a meaty bite we suggest using thick-cut bacon. If you’re looking for a healthier option you can try turkey bacon. Keep in mind that it might slightly change the overall flavor.
Tater Tots: To ensure the texture when baked make sure to keep the tater tots frozen until you start assembling them.
Ranch Dressing Mix: The ranch dressing mix not only adds a tangy kick. Also brings a zest that beautifully contrasts with the other ingredients. It’s definitely worth including!
Cheddar Cheese: For a flavor profile in the casserole use sharp or mature cheddar cheese. It will add richness to every bite.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs and milk are essential for creating a binding base, for our casserole. If possible go for fresh, free-range eggs. For a texture consider using half and half instead of regular milk.
Steps To Make Cracked-Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole:
Step 1: To start preheat your oven to a temperature of 350ºF. Lightly spray a baking dish measuring 9×13 inches with cooking spray. This step ensures that nothing sticks and that everything bakes evenly.
Step 2: Take a skillet. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and delicious. Once cooked chop the bacon into mouthwatering pieces.
Step 3: Now it’s time to mix everything together! In a bowl combine the crispy tater tots with the bacon bits and add in the sharp cheddar cheese. Mix them all together well. Then transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Next comes the creamy magic! Whisk together the eggs, zesty Ranch mix, and milk until they are well combined. Gently pour this mixture over the tater tot medley making sure it spreads into all the nooks and crannies.
Step 5: If you’re not planning to bake it cover it up and let it chill in the refrigerator. If you’re ready to bake place it in the oven and let it cook for approximately 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs have set. You can’t resist following that enticing aroma to your kitchen.
Tip:
To elevate the taste and add a crispy element you might want to think about sprinkling crushed croutons or buttery breadcrumbs, on top of the casserole before it goes in the oven. This not only enhances the texture of the dish. Also creates a golden crispy crust that beautifully complements the creamy and velvety layers underneath.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Sure! You can definitely use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon if you’d like. It’s an option, for those looking for a healthier alternative and it will still give your casserole a delicious flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
To store any leftovers simply place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator. They should be good for, up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them just reheat them either in the oven or the microwave.
Can I add any vegetables to this casserole?
If you want to add some vegetables to your casserole go ahead! Bell peppers, onions, or even spinach would be choices. Not only will they provide a nutritional boost but they’ll also add a vibrant splash of color to your dish.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Cracked Out Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bacon
- 1 30-32ounces bag frozen tater tots
- 1 1-ounce package Ranch Salad Dressing & Seasoning Mix
- 2 c shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 eggs
- 2 c milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease a baking dish measuring 9x13 inches.
- In a skillet cook the bacon until crispy then finely chop it.
- In a bowl combine the tater tots, bacon and cheese. Transfer this mixture to the greased dish.
- Whisk together the eggs, Ranch mix and milk in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the tater tot combination.
- If you need to wait before baking cover the dish. Refrigerate it. Otherwise, bake it for 50 to 60 minutes until it becomes set.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
