Crockpot Breakfast Casserole – Easy, Hearty, and Perfect for Mornings

Start your day off right with a Crockpot breakfast casserole that combines all the classic breakfast flavors you love—eggs, sausage, cheese, and crispy hash browns—into one easy-to-make dish. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a busy holiday, this recipe is perfect for those who want a comforting and hearty breakfast without any hassle. Simply prep it the night before, and let the Crockpot do all the work while you sleep. The result is a delicious and filling breakfast casserole that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Why Choose a Crockpot Breakfast Casserole?

A Crockpot breakfast casserole is not only convenient but also packed with flavor and texture. It combines the creamy richness of eggs, savory sausage, melty cheese, and the satisfying crunch of hash browns, all slow-cooked to perfection. The best part? You don’t need to wake up early to make breakfast—just prepare it the night before and let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s an ideal choice for busy mornings, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

To make this Crockpot breakfast casserole, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Hash Brown Potatoes: Provide a hearty, crispy base for the casserole, adding texture and flavor.
Sausage: Use bulk breakfast sausage for a savory, flavorful filling.
Eggs: Whisked with milk to create a creamy, fluffy texture that holds everything together.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, melty flavor to the casserole.
Pepper Jack Cheese: Provides a subtle heat and creamy texture, perfect for balance.
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers offer a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
Onions: Dice onions to add sweetness and flavor to the casserole.
Milk: Used to whisk the eggs and create a smooth, creamy filling.
Kosher Salt: Season to taste, and balance the flavors of the sausage and cheese.
Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of seasoning to enhance all the flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to customize your Crockpot breakfast casserole, here are a few easy swaps:

  • Turkey Sausage: If you want a lighter version, swap regular sausage for turkey sausage for a leaner option.
  • Frozen Tater Tots: Instead of hash browns, you can use frozen tater tots for a fun twist on the classic casserole.
  • Monterey Jack Cheese: If you’re not a fan of pepper jack, you can use Monterey Jack for a milder, creamy flavor.
  • Diced Green Chiles: For an extra kick, stir in a can of diced green chiles.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Crockpot breakfast casserole:

  1. Prepare the Crockpot: Begin by spraying the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking to the sides.
  2. Layer the Potatoes: Place one-third of the hash brown potatoes in the bottom of the Crockpot. Spread them evenly to cover the base.
  3. Add the Sausage and Veggies: Spoon one-third of the cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, and onions over the potatoes.
  4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle one cup of mixed cheddar and pepper jack cheese over the sausage mixture.
  5. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times, creating a total of three layers of potatoes, sausage, veggies, and cheese.
  6. Pour the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole layers.
  7. Cook the Casserole: Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours.
  8. Serve: Once the casserole is done, serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks for the Best Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

To make sure your Crockpot breakfast casserole turns out perfect every time, here are a few helpful tips:

  • Grease the Crockpot Well: Be sure to spray the Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking, especially around the edges where the cheese and potatoes can get crispy.
  • Drain Excess Fat: After browning the sausage, drain off any excess fat to avoid greasy casserole layers.
  • Prep Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and then cook it in the Crockpot the next morning. This will save you time and make the process even easier.
  • Check for Doneness: Since all slow cookers vary, you may want to check the casserole about 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time to ensure it’s fully set.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Crockpot breakfast casserole is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides or toppings to suit your tastes:

  • Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon for a well-rounded breakfast.
  • Toppings: Add sour cream, hot sauce, or salsa for extra flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the hash browns for gluten-free tater tots or potatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This casserole also freezes beautifully—just cut it into individual servings and store in freezer bags for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast on the go!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Crockpot breakfast casserole is a perfect way to start your day with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast or simply want an easy, hearty meal to fuel your morning, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The convenience of preparing it the night before and letting the slow cooker do the work makes it a game-changer for busy mornings. With layers of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs, every bite is a comforting treat. Don’t forget to personalize the casserole to suit your tastes, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings.

Make this Crockpot breakfast casserole your go-to breakfast dish, and enjoy the simplicity of a hot, satisfying meal with zero stress!

FAQ

1. Can I make the Crockpot breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Simply assemble the ingredients in the Crockpot, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, just cook it on low for 8 hours, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast waiting for you.

2. Can I freeze the Crockpot breakfast casserole?

Absolutely! If you have leftovers, or if you want to make it ahead of time, this casserole freezes well. Simply cut it into individual portions, wrap it tightly, and store it in freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast.

3. Can I use a different type of sausage in the recipe?

Yes, you can swap out the bulk breakfast sausage for turkey sausage or even vegetarian sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. For a different flavor twist, you could also try chorizo for a spicier kick.

More Relevant Recipes

  • Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole: This flavorful casserole features tender chicken, enchilada sauce, and layers of cheese, making it a perfect slow-cooked dish for a hearty breakfast or dinner. The use of the Crockpot makes it a great option for easy preparation and bold flavor.
  • Pumpkin French Toast: This comforting fall-inspired breakfast combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with fluffy French toast. Perfect for cozy mornings, it pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or a seasonal drink for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • Bangin’ Breakfast Potatoes: These crispy, seasoned breakfast potatoes are a perfect side dish to any breakfast casserole. With the right balance of herbs and spices, they bring an extra crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with egg-based dishes like our Crockpot breakfast casserole.
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Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

Crockpot Breakfast Casserole


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  • Author: Elina
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring layers of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, eggs, and melted cheese. Perfect for a stress-free breakfast, it can be prepared the night before and cooked while you sleep, making it ideal for busy mornings or family gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 12 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 pounds hash brown potatoes
  • 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage, cooked
  • ½ cup onions, diced
  • ½ cup bell peppers, diced (red and green)
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 ½ cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Spray the inside of the Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Mix the two shredded cheeses together and set aside.
  3. Mix the cooked sausage, diced onions, and peppers in a separate bowl and set aside.
  4. Beat the eggs until well blended, then whisk in the milk, salt, and pepper.
  5. Layer ⅓ of the hash brown potatoes in the bottom of the Crockpot.
  6. Spoon ⅓ of the sausage mixture over the potatoes.
  7. Top with 1 cup of mixed cheese.
  8. Repeat the layers two more times to form three layers in total, finishing with the cheese mixture on top.
  9. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the Crockpot.
  10. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the casserole is set and cooked through.
  11. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Grease the Crockpot well to prevent sticking, especially around the edges where cheese and potatoes can crisp up.
  • Drain any excess fat from the sausage to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • For a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage or use a mix of different vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Slow cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 1048mg
  • Fat: 37g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 31g
  • Cholesterol: 330mg

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