This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats. It’s super easy to throw together and cooks while you sleep!
The best part? You wake up to a cozy home and a tasty meal waiting for you! I love serving it with some fresh fruit—with no dishes to wash, it’s breakfast bliss! 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Ground sausage gives great flavor! If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tofu or a meat substitute.
Eggs: I always use large eggs for this dish. If you’re looking for a vegan version, silken tofu blended with some nutritional yeast can serve as a good alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its sharpness. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or skip it altogether—it’s still tasty without!
Hash Browns: Frozen, shredded hash browns make it easy! If you have fresh potatoes, you could dice and cook them before mixing in. Sweet potatoes would also add a flavorful twist.
Bell Peppers: Use any color you like! I enjoy red or orange for their sweetness. Zucchini or spinach are great substitutes if you’re looking for something different.
How Do I Ensure My Egg Casserole Sets Well?
A common struggle with egg casseroles is getting the right texture. To help it set nicely, follow these tips:
- Whisk eggs and milk together until fully blended; this helps incorporate air.
- Adding milk keeps it creamy—too little can make it dry, while too much might make it too runny.
- Cook it low and slow! This ensures the eggs are set throughout without browning too much.
Keep an eye on the cooking time—every slow cooker is different! If it looks firm and puffy, it’s ready to enjoy!
Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (ground)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and/or orange)
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (plus extra for topping)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and can cook in your slow cooker for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. It’s perfect for setting up before bedtime or in the morning for an easy brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until it’s browned and completely cooked through. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and pour in the milk. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and fluffy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
To the bowl, add the cooked sausage, thawed hash browns, diced bell peppers, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. If you like, toss in the chopped bacon too. Mix it all together until everything is evenly combined.
4. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Lightly spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray to make cleanup easier later on. Pour the entire egg mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
5. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the casserole looks puffed and firm.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully remove the casserole from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with the chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs if you like. Add extra bacon on top for a tasty finish!
7. Slice and Enjoy!
Slice the casserole into portions and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal with your loved ones—perfect for starting the day off right!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu or tempeh instead.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! Mix all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just pour the mixture into the slow cooker and set it to cook!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven. It’s just as delicious the next day!
What Sides Pair Well with This Casserole?
This breakfast casserole is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a green salad, or even toast if you like a little crunch on the side!
