Are you searching for a breakfast dish that will satisfy a hungry crowd or make your weekend mornings a breeze? Look no further than the irresistible Tater Tot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the classic breakfast ingredients of ham, cheese, and eggs with the crunchy goodness of tater tots, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of oil
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 16 ounces of country ham, diced
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- 8 ounces (1 cup) of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 32 ounces of frozen tater tots
How to Make Tater Tot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole:
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook the Ham and Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté diced bell peppers and green onions until tender. Add diced ham and cook until lightly pink. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded cheese and the cooked ham and vegetable mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Pour the egg mixture over the tater tots, then sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Bake: Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations:
- Add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile of the casserole.
- Customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 235mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time and freeze it?
- Can I use egg substitutes or egg whites instead of whole eggs?
- How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
- Can I reheat leftovers?
In Conclusion:
The Tater Tot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want to enjoy a hearty breakfast on a lazy morning, this casserole is sure to impress. With its easy preparation, make-ahead options, and endless variations, it’s bound to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. So why wait? Try it today and elevate your breakfast game!