Oh, friends, there’s just something so wonderfully comforting about a hearty breakfast that practically makes itself! This incredible slow cooker breakfast casserole brings me right back to those lazy weekend mornings, the house filling with the aroma of something delicious, and everyone gathering around the table, ready for a taste of home. It’s that perfect blend of savory sausage, tender hash browns, and cheesy goodness, all baked to bubbly perfection, proving that even the most satisfying dishes can be delightfully simple to prepare.
I remember countless mornings, huddled in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her effortlessly whip up dishes that nourished both body and soul. She taught me that the best meals aren’t about complicated techniques, but about simple, quality ingredients and a sprinkle of love. This recipe embodies that spirit, reminding me of those precious moments and the joy of sharing homemade food.
This breakfast casserole isn’t just easy on your morning schedule, it’s also a fantastic way to feed a crowd or enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. My top tip? Don’t skimp on the cheese – it’s the secret to that irresistible golden crust!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting this delightful breakfast is all about combining simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into something truly magical. We’re talking about rich ground breakfast sausage, fluffy hash browns, a medley of fresh veggies, and a creamy egg base with plenty of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to bring this hearty slow cooker breakfast casserole to life. For the full list of ingredients and precise measurements, you’ll find everything you need in the recipe card below!
How to Make slow cooker breakfast casserole
Whipping up this magnificent slow cooker breakfast casserole is a breeze! You’ll begin by preparing your savory ingredients, then whisking together a rich, creamy egg mixture. Once everything is layered into your slow cooker, simply let it work its magic, transforming simple ingredients into a golden, bubbly breakfast sensation that’s perfect for sharing.
Hearty Slow Cooker Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and squeezed dry hash browns, cooked sausage, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper. Mix well.
- Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or butter. Spread half of the hash brown mixture evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle with 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese (Cheddar and/or Monterey Jack). Top with the remaining hash brown mixture.
- In the same large mixing bowl (no need to wash), whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown and sausage layers in the slow cooker. Gently press down on the mixture with a spoon to ensure the egg mixture fully saturates all ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours, or on LOW for 7 to 8 hours. The casserole is done when the eggs are set in the center and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- About 15-20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1.5 cups of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Re-cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- Once cheese is melted and bubbly, turn off the slow cooker. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before scooping out and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped chives, if desired.
Notes
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Cooked bacon or ham can also replace or be added to the sausage.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Consistency: For a slightly crisper top, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking if your slow cooker allows for a bit of evaporation, but it won’t get truly crispy like an oven-baked casserole.
Pro Tips for Making This slow cooker breakfast casserole
Creating the perfect slow cooker breakfast casserole is truly a labor of love, and over the years, I’ve gathered a few cherished tips that I just have to share. These little secrets will ensure your breakfast casserole comes out perfectly every time, a truly magical treat.
My Secret Trick: I always brown my breakfast sausage and sauté the onions and bell peppers before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step deeply enhances their flavor, giving the casserole a richer, more complex taste that’s absolutely divine and prevents a watery slow cooker breakfast casserole.
For that perfectly set yet still tender texture, I always recommend greasing your slow cooker insert generously. This prevents sticking and ensures your hearty slow cooker breakfast casserole lifts out beautifully for serving. Nobody wants to lose those delicious crispy edges!
Don’t be tempted to peek too often! Each time you lift the lid, the cooking temperature drops, extending your cooking time. Trust the process, and let your slow cooker do its wonderful work. This patience is key to a perfectly cooked slow cooker breakfast casserole.
Finally, resist the urge to overfill your slow cooker. Leaving a little room at the top ensures even cooking and prevents any messy overflows, guaranteeing your slow cooker breakfast casserole is baked to perfection without a hitch.
Fun Variations for slow cooker breakfast casserole
One of the things I adore most about baking is the freedom to get creative and make a recipe truly your own! This slow cooker breakfast casserole is wonderfully adaptable, just like those cherished family recipes that evolve with each generation. Here are a few ways you can add your own special touch:
Spice It Up
For those who love a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage as it browns, or swap out the green bell pepper for a finely diced jalapeño. My friend, Martha, always adds a dash of her favorite hot sauce to her individual serving for an extra kick!
Veggie Boost
Don’t be shy about incorporating more vegetables! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even diced sweet potatoes would be lovely additions. Just make sure to cook them down a bit beforehand to avoid excess moisture in your slow cooker breakfast casserole.
Cheesy Delights
While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classics, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Pepper Jack would add a nice zing, or a smoky gouda could bring a whole new depth of flavor to your breakfast casserole. I often use whatever delicious cheeses I have on hand!
Meat Swaps
If you’re not a fan of sausage, or just want to try something different, cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles work beautifully in this hearty slow cooker breakfast casserole.
What to Serve With slow cooker breakfast casserole
This hearty slow cooker breakfast casserole is a showstopper all on its own, but a few simple accompaniments can truly elevate the experience, making it feel like a delightful brunch spread straight from my grandmother’s kitchen table. Here are some of my favorite ways to complete this comforting meal:
I love serving individual slices of this slow cooker breakfast casserole with a side of fresh fruit salad, bursting with seasonal berries and melon. The brightness of the fruit is a wonderful contrast to the richness of the casserole. A warm slice of this slow cooker breakfast casserole also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, lightly dressed, for a more brunch-like feel. My mom always had a big pot of coffee brewing alongside, and I think a strong cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice is an absolute must! For a touch of indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh salsa adds a delightful tang to each savory bite.
How to Store slow cooker breakfast casserole
Once you’ve savored every delicious bite of this slow cooker breakfast casserole, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to enjoy them later. My goal is always to keep that wonderful flavor and texture intact, just like when it first came out of the slow cooker!
To store your leftover slow cooker breakfast casserole, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer individual portions or the entire remaining casserole to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you’re planning to enjoy it later in the week, this slow cooker breakfast casserole also freezes wonderfully! Portion it out, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. My personal tip? A quick sprinkle of fresh chives after reheating brings back that lovely fresh flavor!
Nutritional Benefits
While this slow cooker breakfast casserole is an absolute treat, it also offers some lovely nutritional benefits. Packed with protein from the eggs, milk, and sausage, it’s a wonderfully satisfying start to your day that keeps you full and energized. The vegetables add a touch of fiber and essential vitamins, making this a hearty slow cooker breakfast casserole a delicious and nourishing option that combines indulgence with wholesome ingredients.
FAQs
Can I assemble this the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients, layer them in your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply place the insert into the slow cooker and begin cooking for an effortless slow cooker breakfast casserole.
How do I prevent it from being watery?
To avoid a watery slow cooker breakfast casserole, ensure you brown the sausage and sauté any vegetables thoroughly beforehand to remove excess moisture. Also, avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking.
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh, dice them into small pieces and consider par-cooking them slightly before adding them to the slow cooker breakfast casserole to ensure they become tender.
How long does this slow cooker breakfast casserole last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, your delicious slow cooker breakfast casserole will remain fresh and delightful in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, perfect for easy meal prep.
Conclusion
And there you have it, friends – a truly heartwarming and effortlessly delicious slow cooker breakfast casserole that brings that special touch of homemade goodness to your table. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, a little patience, and the magic of your slow cooker can create something truly memorable. I hope this recipe inspires you to embrace the joy of creating joyful, home-baked desserts and comforting meals that create lasting memories. So go ahead, give this slow cooker breakfast casserole a try, and let its comforting flavors fill your home with warmth and happiness!