Scrambled Eggs Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or set an air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or lightly oil it if using the oven. If using an air fryer, ensure the basket is clean and lightly oiled.

Cook tater tots

Spread 4 cups frozen tater tots in a single layer on the prepared sheet or in the air fryer basket. Toss with 1 tablespoon neutral oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Bake for 20–25 minutes at 425°F, turning once halfway, until deeply golden and crisp. If air frying, cook 15–18 minutes shaking the basket every 5 minutes until crispy. Remove from oven/air fryer and keep warm.

Bacon

If using bacon, lay 6 slices in a cold skillet, then set over medium heat. Cook, turning occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Sausage

If using ground breakfast sausage, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Crumble the 8 oz sausage into the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink and nicely browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside on a plate.

Pork belly

If using pork belly pieces, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 8 oz pork belly pieces (no additional oil should be necessary) and cook until browned and rendered and edges are crisp, about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a paper towel–lined plate.

Make egg mixture

Crack 6 large eggs into a medium bowl. Add 3 tablespoons milk or half-and-half, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk vigorously until fully blended and slightly frothy. Stir in optional 2 tablespoons chopped chives/green onions if using.

Cook eggs

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted and foam subsides but before it browns, pour in the egg mixture. Let eggs sit undisturbed for about 10–15 seconds until edges just set. Using a flexible spatula, gently push cooked edges toward the center while tilting the pan to let uncooked egg flow to the edges. Continue folding gently in 10–15 second intervals until eggs are softly set and slightly creamy — about 2–3 minutes total. Remove from heat just before fully firm; carryover heat will finish them. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Assemble

Place the cooked tater tots on a large serving plate or divide among 4 individual plates. Scatter the chopped bacon, cooked sausage, or pork belly evenly over the tots.

Add eggs and cheese

Top the tots and meat with the warm scrambled eggs. Immediately sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the eggs so it melts slightly. If desired, drizzle 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce over each portion.

Garnish and serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro and the remaining optional chopped chives/green onions. Serve hot and provide extra hot sauce or black pepper at the table.