Starting your day with a hearty breakfast is essential, and what better way than with a delicious Crockpot breakfast casserole? This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or brunch parties.
With layers of eggs, sausage, cheese, and hash browns, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Here’s how to make it:
Crockpot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen hash browns
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced tomatoes, spinach, or other vegetables
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cooking the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease. Dice the bell pepper and onion. If you’re adding any additional vegetables, prepare them as well.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
In a lightly greased Crockpot, layer half of the hash browns, followed by half of the cooked sausage, half of the diced bell pepper, half of the onion, and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the Crockpot.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the eggs are set and the casserole is cooked through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your Crockpot, so keep an eye on it.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, serve the breakfast casserole warm. It’s perfect as is, but you can also top it with salsa, hot sauce, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole:
- Prep the Night Before: Save time in the morning by preparing the ingredients and layering them in the Crockpot the night before. Simply store the Crockpot in the refrigerator overnight and start cooking in the morning.
- Customize Your Casserole: This recipe is highly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as mushrooms, spinach, or different types of cheese.
- Check for Doneness: Use a knife or toothpick to check the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the casserole is done.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the Eggs: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the eggs, which can make them rubbery.
- Not Draining the Sausage: Ensure you drain the sausage well to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Uneven Layering: Distribute the ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is balanced and flavorful.
Photo by: thegirlonbloor.com
Conclusion
The Crockpot breakfast casserole is a convenient and delicious way to start your day. With minimal prep work and the ability to customize it to your liking, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or need an easy breakfast option for busy mornings, this casserole will not disappoint. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients that make this recipe a standout favorite.
