This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is a warm and filling dish perfect for lazy mornings. Packed with eggs, cheese, and tasty toppings like sausage or veggies, it’s easy to love!
The best part? You just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work while you sip your coffee. I love waking up to the smell of breakfast already done! ☕️🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The star of the dish! Use large eggs for the best texture. If you’re short on eggs, consider using 6 eggs plus 1 cup of egg whites to lighten it up.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can use skim or even plant-based milk if you prefer a lighter version. Just keep in mind the flavor might change slightly.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage gives great flavor. Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or skip it for a vegetarian dish. You could also use diced ham or crumbled veggie sausage!
Cheese: Cheddar is the go-to, but feel free to switch it up with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just make sure it melts well.
Hash Browns: Frozen is convenient, but fresh diced potatoes can work too! Just make sure they are cooked beforehand. Sweet potatoes can also be a tasty substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Cook This Casserole in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking in a slow cooker makes this breakfast casserole simple and fuss-free. Here’s how to ensure it cooks perfectly:
- Grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking; that’s key for easy serving!
- Whisk the eggs and milk together thoroughly for a smooth texture.
- Mix in all your ingredients well before pouring into the slow cooker; this helps with even distribution of flavors.
- Keep it covered while cooking to trap steam and help everything set nicely.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center. It’s done when it comes out clean!
- Let it cool slightly before cutting; it helps it hold its shape better.
This simple method lets you wake up to a delicious breakfast with minimal morning effort!
Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup diced cooked bacon (or more as desired)
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups frozen hash browns or 3 cups diced potatoes, cooked and drained
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare and will require 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low in the slow cooker. So, you can set it up the night before, wake up, and enjoy a meal that’s ready and waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker insert with non-stick spray or a bit of butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on!
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack in the eggs and add the milk, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and frothy.
3. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Stir in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese (save a little for later!), diced bacon, bell pepper, and green onions along with the hash browns or cooked diced potatoes. Mix until everything is distributed evenly.
4. Pour into the Slow Cooker:
Gently pour the egg mixture into your greased slow cooker, making sure it’s spread out evenly.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Add Extra Cheese:
In the last 10 to 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. Close the lid and let it melt into a delicious gooey layer!
7. Serve it Up:
Once it’s cooked, carefully remove the casserole from the slow cooker. Garnish with more chopped green onions. Cut into squares and enjoy warm. This casserole is perfect with toast or fresh fruit on the side.
Enjoy a hearty, cheesy, protein-packed breakfast that’s simple to prep and perfect for busy mornings!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes in This Casserole?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like egg whites or a commercial egg replacer. Keep in mind that using just egg whites may result in a slightly different texture. About 1/4 cup of egg substitute generally equals one egg, so adjust accordingly!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, just omit the sausage and bacon. You can add more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for additional flavor and texture.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before. Mix all the ingredients and store them in the fridge, then pour the mixture into the slow cooker in the morning before cooking. Just be mindful of the cooking time when starting with a cold mixture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s great for meal prep, so feel free to make extra!
