Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and downright delightful to serve up any morning, let me introduce you to the absolute star: the Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe. This layered wonder combines tender ham, melty cheese, fluffy eggs, and those irresistibly crispy tater tots all baked into one comforting casserole. It’s the kind of dish that makes mornings feel special, whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend brunch. Plus, it’s so simple to pull together, which means you get big flavor with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your breakfast rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the savory ham adding a punch of protein, to the creamy cheese melting into every bite, and the tater tots contributing irresistible crunch and golden color.

• 2 cups diced ham: Use good-quality ham for the best flavor; it’s the savory foundation of this dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheese: Cheddar or a blend works beautifully for creamy, melty goodness.
• 8 large eggs: These bind everything together and provide that fluffy breakfast texture.
• 1 cup milk: Adding milk keeps the casserole wonderfully moist and tender.
• 1 bag frozen tater tots (32 oz): The star of the topping, these bake up crispy and golden.
• Salt & pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease your baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and has an easy time coming out once it’s all cooked and golden.

Step 2: Layer the Ham and Cheese

Evenly spread the diced ham across the bottom of your baking dish. Follow that up by sprinkling your shredded cheese over the ham, creating a savory, melty layer that’s going to infuse every bite with rich flavor.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Eggs and Milk

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. This mixture will pour over the ham and cheese, soaking into every crevice and helping bind everything together during baking.

Step 4: Pour Egg Mixture Over Ham and Cheese

Carefully pour your whisked egg mixture over the ham and cheese layers. Take care to distribute it evenly so that every bite is a perfect balance of those flavors.

Step 5: Top with the Tater Tots

Scatter the frozen tater tots across the top of the casserole. This layer will bake into a crispy, golden crown that adds texture and visual appeal to the dish.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for the tater tots to turn golden brown and crispy, and the egg mixture to be fully set but still moist and tender.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your casserole serving by sprinkling freshly chopped green onions or parsley over the top. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors and add a refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

Keep things simple with a side of fresh fruit like berries or melon. If you want to add some greens, a crisp mixed salad or sautéed spinach pairs beautifully without overpowering the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve the casserole straight from a cast-iron skillet at the table, or portion it into individual ramekins before baking for a personal touch. Adding mini breakfast sausages or avocado slices on the side can also create an attractive and delicious breakfast spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover the casserole with foil or store in an airtight container and refrigerate any leftovers. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for convenient next-day breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and enjoy a ready-made breakfast any morning you desire.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the tater tots regain their crispiness. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method keeps the texture best.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ham with other proteins?

Absolutely! The Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe is flexible. You can swap ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or even turkey for different flavor variations.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, just skip the ham and add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian-friendly version without losing the casserole’s hearty appeal.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

While tater tots give a unique crispy topping, you can certainly use thinly sliced or shredded potatoes. Just parboil or sauté them first to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy in the oven.

How far ahead can I assemble this casserole before baking?

You can put the casserole together the night before, cover and refrigerate it, then bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free brunch or breakfast.

What cheese works best in this casserole?

Cheddar is classic, but a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack makes for extra melty, flavorful results. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots Recipe is the kind of dish that brings warmth, comfort, and smiles around the breakfast table. Its simplicity combined with delicious layers of flavor make it an unbeatable choice for any morning. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how easily this casserole can become your new go-to breakfast or brunch favorite!

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