CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

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Introduction

CrockPot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for busy mornings or feeding a crowd. This hearty and comforting recipe combines layers of eggs, cheese, breakfast meats, vegetables, and hash browns, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The result is a fluffy, flavorful casserole that’s ready to serve straight from the CrockPot.

I remember the first time I made this for a holiday gathering—it was so easy, and the kitchen smelled incredible as it cooked. The combination of savory breakfast meats, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese creates a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone loves. Plus, the convenience of making it ahead of time means you can enjoy your morning without any stress.

What’s so great about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the seasonings, or even add extra ingredients like spicy sausage or fresh herbs. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, celebrating the holidays, or just looking for an easy breakfast solution, this CrockPot Breakfast Casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home. It’s the perfect way to start the day on a delicious note!

Perfect for:

  • Holiday mornings
  • Weekend brunches
  • Meal prepping
  • Feeding a crowd
  • Lazy mornings

Why You’ll Love This CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

Here’s why CrockPot Breakfast Casserole will be a staple in your kitchen:

  • Hands-Off Cooking: The CrockPot does all the work, freeing up your time for other tasks.
  • Customizable: Mix and match ingredients to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand.
  • Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: This casserole makes enough to serve a group, making it ideal for gatherings.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the night before and wake up to a hot, ready-to-eat breakfast.
  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, veggies, and carbs, it’s a complete meal in one dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 6-8 hours (overnight or during the day)
  • Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
  • Servings: 8-10
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your CrockPot Breakfast Casserole:

  • 1 (26-ounce) bag frozen hash browns
  • 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (or substitute bacon or ham)
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
  • 12 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or non-dairy alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Cooking spray or butter for greasing

Ingredient Highlights

  • Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns form the base of the casserole, adding texture and heartiness.
  • Breakfast Sausage: Adds savory, meaty flavor; can be swapped for bacon, ham, or plant-based sausage.
  • Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions provide flavor, color, and a boost of nutrients.
  • Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully, but you can use Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a combination.
  • Eggs: The eggs bind everything together and create a fluffy, custard-like texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make CrockPot Breakfast Casserole:

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Grease the CrockPot: Lightly coat the inside of your CrockPot with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Layer the Hash Browns: Spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom of the CrockPot.
  3. Add the Meat: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage (or bacon/ham) over the hash browns.
  4. Layer the Vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers and onions evenly over the meat.
  5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the vegetables.

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

  1. Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
  2. Pour Over the Layers: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers in the CrockPot, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Cook the Casserole:

  1. Set the CrockPot: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden.
  2. Check for Doneness: Use a knife or toothpick to check that the center is cooked through.

Serve:

  1. Slice and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly, then slice and serve directly from the CrockPot.

How to Serve CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

CrockPot Breakfast Casserole is versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • With Hot Sauce: Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • With Fresh Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped green onions, parsley, or cilantro for a fresh finish.
  • As Part of a Brunch Spread: Pair with fresh fruit, muffins, or pastries for a complete meal.
  • With Avocado: Serve with sliced avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess.
  • As Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully for an easy breakfast the next day.

Additional Tips for CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

Here are some tips to make your CrockPot Breakfast Casserole perfect every time:

  • Use a Liner: For easy cleanup, use a slow cooker liner.
  • Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook, as the eggs can become rubbery. Check for doneness around the 6-hour mark.
  • Prepare Ahead: Assemble the ingredients the night before and start the CrockPot in the morning for a freshly cooked breakfast.
  • Customize the Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more variety.
  • Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
  • Cheese Lovers: Mix in different types of cheese for extra richness.

Recipe Variations for CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

Here are 10 variations you can try for CrockPot Breakfast Casserole:

  1. Vegetarian Breakfast Casserole: Skip the meat and add more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes.
  2. Southwestern Style: Add black beans, salsa, and jalapeños, and top with avocado and cilantro.
  3. Italian-Inspired: Use Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
  4. Ham and Swiss: Swap the sausage for diced ham and use Swiss cheese.
  5. Greek Style: Add feta cheese, spinach, and Kalamata olives.
  6. Low-Carb Breakfast Casserole: Replace the hash browns with cauliflower rice.
  7. Tex-Mex Style: Add chorizo, pepper jack cheese, and a side of pico de gallo.
  8. Herb and Cheese: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives, and use goat cheese.
  9. Breakfast Burrito Style: Wrap portions in tortillas with extra salsa and sour cream.
  10. Seafood Twist: Add smoked salmon, capers, and a dollop of cream cheese.

Freezing and Storage for CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

  • Freezing: Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Special Equipment for CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

  • CrockPot/Slow Cooker – The key piece of equipment for cooking the casserole slowly and evenly over hours.
  • Large mixing bowl – For combining eggs, cheese, and any additional ingredients before adding them to the CrockPot.
  • Whisk – To beat the eggs and mix them evenly with other ingredients like milk or cream.
  • Cutting board – For chopping vegetables, meats, or any other ingredients.
  • Chef’s knife – For finely chopping onions, peppers, and other vegetables or proteins.
  • Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate portions for liquids, spices, and other ingredients.
  • Ladles or serving spoon – To serve the casserole from the CrockPot, ensuring even portions.
  • CrockPot liner (optional) – Helps with easy cleanup by preventing food from sticking to the CrockPot’s insert.
  • Aluminum foil – Can be used to cover the CrockPot to help trap heat and moisture, if needed.
  • Thermometer – To check the internal temperature of the casserole to make sure it’s fully cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions for CrockPot Breakfast Casserole

  1. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
    Yes, cooking on high will reduce the time to about 3-4 hours.
  2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
    Yes, but shred them and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
  3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Skip the meat and add more vegetables or plant-based alternatives.
  4. How do I prevent the edges from overcooking?
    Stir the edges occasionally, or line the CrockPot with parchment paper.
  5. Can I use egg substitutes?
    Yes, egg substitutes or a combination of eggs and egg whites will work fine.

Conclusion

CrockPot Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate go-to dish for busy mornings, leisurely weekend brunches, or festive holiday gatherings. This hearty casserole blends savory breakfast staples like eggs, cheese, sausage, and potatoes into one delicious, easy-to-make meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its convenience—simply assemble the ingredients in the CrockPot, set it to cook, and enjoy a warm, comforting breakfast without the hassle.

Perfect for customizing to your tastes or sticking to the classic combo, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you add veggies, bacon, or your favorite seasonings, it’s a dish everyone will love. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd with minimal effort!

I’d love to see how your CrockPot Breakfast Casserole turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Happy cooking!