1. Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole the night before. Just cover and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it in the morning. You may need to add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Tater tots offer convenience and crisp texture, but if you prefer fresh potatoes, you can shred or cube them and sauté them first. Just make sure they're partially cooked before adding to the casserole to avoid raw, undercooked bites.

3. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is ready when the center is firm and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean. The cheese should be bubbly and golden, and the edges may lightly brown. It usually takes about 40–45 minutes at 375°F.

4. What can I substitute for ham?

Ham can be replaced with cooked bacon, sausage, or a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or spinach. For a spicy kick, use chorizo or add some jalapeños along with your protein of choice.

Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots

Name: Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Frozen tater tots – 1 (32 oz) bag; Eggs – 8 large; Milk – 1 cup; Diced ham – 1 ½ cups; Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups; Chopped onion – ½ cup; Chopped bell pepper – ½ cup; Salt – 1 tsp; Black pepper – ½ tsp; Garlic powder – ½ tsp; Optional: paprika – ¼ tsp

Description

This easy ham and cheese breakfast casserole with tater tots is a beginner-friendly dish perfect for brunches, holidays, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Frozen tater tots – 1 (32 oz) bag
Eggs – 8 large
Milk – 1 cup
Diced ham – 1 ½ cups
Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups
Chopped onion – ½ cup
Chopped bell pepper – ½ cup
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Garlic powder – ½ tsp
Optional: paprika – ¼ tsp

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of the dish.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
Sprinkle ham, onion, and bell pepper evenly over the tater tots.
Pour the egg mixture over the casserole, making sure it covers all the ingredients. Shake the dish slightly to help the eggs settle.
Top with shredded cheese, spreading evenly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes until the eggs are set, the cheese is golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Notes

Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Pre-sauté vegetables to reduce excess moisture and enhance flavor.
Can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning.
Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave; also freezer-friendly after baking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 210mg