Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

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This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is everything you want in a cozy morning meal - creamy, flavorful, and loaded with comfort. It features a savory base of fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and diced ham, with golden, crispy tater tots that bake to bubbly perfection. Whether you're serving it for breakfast, weekend brunch, or breakfast-for-dinner, this hearty casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The kids love it too!

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole features a savory base of fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and ham, with golden, crispy tater tots that bakes to perfection. | aheadofthyme.com

Whether you're feeding overnight guests, prepping a weekend brunch, or looking for a kid-friendly meal that's satisfying and simple, this tater tot casserole checks all the boxes. It's easy to assemble ahead of time and bakes up beautifully every time. Even better, you can use this recipe as a base and customize it with your favorite proteins, veggies, or cheeses to suit any taste. It's the kind of flexible, dependable dish that makes meal planning easier and keeps everyone at the table happy.

Why You'll Love this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Hearty and satisfying. Packed with eggs, ham, and two kinds of cheese, this casserole is a filling, stick-to-your-ribs kind of breakfast. The tater tots on top add that irresistible crispy finish for the perfect bite every time. It's a well-balanced mix of protein, carbs, and comfort that keeps you full and fueled.
Make-ahead friendly. You can prep everything the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning. That means less morning stress and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. It's a game-changer for holidays, weekend guests, or early school mornings when time is tight.
Customizable. Don't have ham? Try cooked sausage or crumbled bacon. Add in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. This recipe is flexible enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it perfect for a variety of occasions.
Kid-approved. With cheesy goodness and golden tater tots, even picky eaters will dig into this dish. It's fun, familiar, and easy to serve. Plus, the crispy topping and gooey inside make it a meal kids actually look forward to.
Perfect for a crowd. Whether it's a holiday breakfast or weekend brunch, this casserole feeds a group and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. It's a no-fuss option that looks impressive and keeps everyone happy.

Ingredient Notes

To make this delicious Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

tater tots - the crispy, golden potato bites in the casserole. No need to thaw them either. For a substitute, use frozen hash browns or shredded potatoes.
ham - adds savory flavor and protein. You can also use cooked bacon or sausage crumbles instead.
cheddar cheese - melts into the casserole for that classic cheesy flavor. You can substitute with any melty cheese. Try Colby Jack or pepper jack.
eggs - the base of the casserole that binds everything together. Use large eggs for best results.
mayonnaise - adds creaminess and helps create a rich, custardy texture. You can also use sour cream or Greek yogurt instead.
milk - helps thin the egg mixture. Whole milk works best, but any milk or non-dairy milk will do.
mozzarella cheese - adds melty stretch and balances the sharpness of cheddar. Substitute with Monterey Jack or provolone if desired.
chives - for a fresh, mild oniony finish. You can also use green onions or parsley instead.
salt and pepper

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, 9x13-inch baking dish, large mixing bowl, and whisk.

How to Make the Best Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Prep. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or spray with cooking oil spray.
Make egg mixture. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, mayonnaise, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Assemble bottom layer. Add tater tots, diced ham and cheddar cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
Add egg layer. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, mayonnaise, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour egg mixture evenly over tater tot mixture.
Top with cheese. Top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake. Bake in a 375F preheated oven until golden brown and the egg mixture is completely set, 40 to 45 minutes.
Serve. Sprinkle chives on top and serve.

Recipe Variations

Go meatless. Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
Spice it up. Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Use different cheeses. Try gouda, Swiss, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
Add more protein. Toss in cooked sausage or bacon alongside the ham for a meat-lovers' version.

How to Serve

This Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is delicious served warm, straight from the oven. Serve it on its own or paired with some other brunch favorites including:

For more recipes, see our 40+ Best Brunch Ideas.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Grease your baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier, especially with melty cheese involved.
Whisk eggs thoroughly. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the casserole.
Don't overbake. Bake just until the center is set and the top is golden as overbaking can dry it out.
Let it rest. Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing so it sets up and serves cleanly.
Double it for a crowd. Feeding a big group? This recipe is easy to scale up. Just use a larger dish and add a bit more baking time.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat

To reheat, place a slice of casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. For larger portions or crisper edges, reheat in a 350ºF oven or air fryer for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil if needed to prevent over-browning. Avoid overheating to preserve the creamy texture.

How to Freeze

Bake the casserole, let it cool completely, and then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat. You can also freeze individual portions for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply uncover and bake as directed. It's a great option for holidays, brunch parties, or busy mornings when you want to have breakfast ready to go with minimal effort.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

You can! Shredded or cubed fresh potatoes can be used, but they may need to be par-cooked first so they soften fully while baking. Tater tots give a crispier finish, but fresh potatoes offer a more homemade feel. Make sure to season them well.

Can I freeze individual servings?

Absolutely. Once the casserole is baked and cooled, slice it into portions, wrap them individually, and store them in freezer bags or containers. They reheat well in the microwave or toaster oven, making them perfect for meal prep or busy mornings.

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