This Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a fun and filling dish! It layers crispy tater tots, eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats for a hearty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the casserole! Frozen tater tots provide a crispy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using sweet potato tots or making your own from scratch.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using bulk sausage for easy cooking. If you’re vegetarian or want a leaner version, turkey sausage or crumbled tempeh works well too.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs create the best texture. For a dairy-free version, you could use aquafaba or silken tofu, though the flavor will change a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: I stick with sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack is a great substitution for a bit of heat.
Onion: Diced onions add flavor but can be omitted if you prefer fewer ingredients. Green peppers or mushrooms are also great alternatives!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Cooks Evenly in a Crockpot?
Cooking in a crockpot is all about layering and heat distribution. Here’s how to get it right:
- Always spray the crockpot with non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking.
- Layer ingredients as stated. Use a sturdy base like tater tots, then protein, add vegetables, and finish with cheese.
- Make sure to whisk your egg mixture well. This ensures that it spreads evenly through the casserole as it cooks.
- Monitor the cooking time closely. Each crockpot cooks differently, so if you are unsure, start checking the casserole around an hour early.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a perfectly cooked casserole ready to enjoy!
Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (bulk or removed from casings)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 20 minutes of prep time, and it will cook in your crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for those busy mornings when you want a hearty breakfast with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Spread half of the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the Crockpot. This forms a crispy base for your casserole.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess grease.
4. Add the Layers:
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly on top of the tater tots. If you’re using diced onions, now’s the time to add them on top of the sausage.
5. Cheese Layer:
Now, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage and onions, creating a cheesy goodness layer.
6. More Tater Tots:
Add the remaining frozen tater tots over the cheese layer. This helps keep everything moist and adds a nice texture.
7. Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is nicely combined. Then, pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the Crockpot.
8. Cooking Time:
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set and cooked through.
9. Final Touch:
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let it melt to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
10. Serve:
Once cooked, garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your warm and comforting breakfast casserole!
This Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish, perfect for family gatherings or an easy weekday breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Onions?
Absolutely! You can use frozen mixed vegetables or any other frozen veggies you like. Just toss them in with the layers for extra nutrition and flavor. No need to thaw them first; they will cook up nicely in the crockpot!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the breakfast sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can prep all the layers the night before and assemble everything in the crockpot. Just cover and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, simply plug in the crockpot and start cooking. A great time-saver!
