This Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate cozy morning treat! With crispy tater tots, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, it’s a morning delight.
Who wouldn’t love a dish you just toss in the crockpot and forget? I love serving it with a side of fruit—it makes brunch feel fancy, even if it’s just a tater tot day! 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the dish, providing that deliciously crispy texture. If you can’t find tater tots, hash browns or even cubed bread can work in a pinch!
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its flavor, but turkey sausage or a veggie sausage are tasty alternatives for those looking to cut fat or go meatless.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a rich flavor. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different twist. Feel free to mix different cheeses to customize the flavor!
Eggs: The eggs bind everything together. For a lighter version, consider using egg whites or a plant-based egg substitute if you’re keeping things vegan.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Cooks Evenly in the Crockpot?
Cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot, so here are some tips to get it just right:
- Layering is key! Make sure to spread each layer evenly so that the heat distributes well.
- Check your crockpot’s settings. If it seems to cook slowly, you might need to adjust your time.
- Use a food thermometer. The dish should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure the eggs are set.
- Don’t lift the lid too often while cooking; it lets out heat and can increase cooking time.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’ll be all set for a delicious breakfast casserole!
Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you can set your crockpot to cook it. It will need 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it until breakfast time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your 6-quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will help everything come out easily later on!
2. Layer the Tater Tots:
Take half of the frozen tater tots and spread them evenly across the bottom of the crockpot. This creates a nice base for your casserole.
3. Add the Sausage:
Next, layer the crumbled, cooked breakfast sausage evenly over the tater tots. This adds a savory flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
4. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. Cheese makes everything better, right?
5. Finish with Tater Tots:
Top it all off with the remaining tater tots. Spread them out evenly to ensure a great texture throughout.
6. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture will bind all your ingredients together.
7. Pour Over the Layers:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layers in the crockpot. Make sure to cover everything so it cooks evenly!
8. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’ll be ready when the eggs are fully set and the tater tots are cooked through.
9. Add More Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let the cheese melt deliciously.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Lastly, garnish your casserole with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve with some fruit or your favorite breakfast sides, and enjoy your hearty, cheesy Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots in This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, this recipe is designed for frozen tater tots, so there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just spread them straight from the freezer into the crockpot for the best texture!
Can I Substitute the Breakfast Sausage?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can use turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage. You can also omit the meat altogether and add more veggies for a vegetarian version!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Definitely! You can layer all the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just pull it out in the morning, set it to cook, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Enjoy your tasty breakfast all over again!
