Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole

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This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole makes the whole house smell amazing! There's nothing like waking up to the smell of breakfast already done in the morning. Potatoes, cheese, sausage, eggs, peppers and onions make the most incredible meal whether for busy mornings or a holiday brunch!

If you are looking for a ready to go breakfast this Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is perfect. It is layered in the slow cooker with hash brown potatoes, peppers, onions, breakfast sausage, cheese and held together by fluffy eggs. I love serving this breakfast casserole at Christmas time with my Gluten Free Cranberry Apple French Toast Bake. It is an excellent combination of sweet and savory.

This breakfast casserole is made right into the slow cooker. Because we are using the slow cooker, clean up is a breeze and such a timesaver. This recipe can also me made ahead and is very freezer friendly which is awesome for meal prep. It feeds a crowd which is great for holiday brunches and gatherings.

If you are looking for more time saving breakfast dishes, check out my Dairy Free Chicken Apple Sausage Breakfast Casserole, this Bacon and Sausage Frittata and this Southwestern Frittata.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE MAKING THIS SLOW COOKER BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

• Breakfast is ready to go. There is nothing quite nicer than having a meal already to go. This is perfect for meal prep or a morning brunch.

• Perfect anytime. I don't know about you but I love breakfast anytime. This meal is perfect to cook overnight for breakfast or throw everything in the crockpot to have for dinner.

• Amazing flavor. The fluffy eggs, flavorful sausage, tender potatoes, fragrant veggies and two types of cheeses tastes incredible in every bite.

• Protein rich. This casserole is loaded with eggs and sausage to be a higher protein rich breakfast to satisfy and keep you full.

INGREDIENTS + NOTES

• Eggs: You will need a dozen.

• Milk: Use 2%, 1%, whole milk or any dairy free variety if dairy free. You can also use heavy whipping cream for a richer casserole.

• Hashbrown potatoes: Shredded or diced work well for this recipe.

• Breakfast sausage: I'm using cooked pork breakfast sausage but you can use turkey sausage, bacon, diced ham or chorizo. The meat needs to be browned before adding to slow cooker.

• Veggies: Chopped red and green peppers, diced onions is used in the casserole. Feel free to use frozen too.

• Cheese: Cheddar and Pepper Jack is what I used. I prefer shredding my own but you can use pre-packaged for convenience.

• Salt + Pepper: To taste

Scroll down to the recipe card for measurements used.

HOW TO MAKE THIS BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Step 1: Spray slow cooker and mix the cheeses

Spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.

Mix the two shredded cheeses together in a bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the sausage, peppers and onions

Mix the cooked sausage, peppers and onions together in another bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Whisk eggs

Whisk eggs until mixed then add in the salt and pepper.

Step 4: Layer casserole

Start by layering ⅓ of the potatoes, then sausage mixture, and cheese. Repeat 2 more times. Pour in egg mixture over the potatoes, sausage and veggies.

Step 5: Cook in the slow cooker

Cover with lid then cook on low for 8 hours.

VARIATIONS/SUBSTITUTIONS

Here are a few suggestions for this breakfast casserole:

• Switch up the meat. You can use bacon, turkey sausage, chorizo and diced ham.

• Hashbrown potatoes. Use frozen tater tots (be sure to check the label for gluten free since several have additives) or you can dice your own favorite potatoes.

• Use different cheese. Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack or mozzarella can all be used.

• Add more veggies. Use frozen peppers and onions. You can also add in your favorites such as mushrooms, spinach, black olives, shallots or diced green chiles for spice.

• Change up the milk. Use any milk of choice- regular or dairy free varieties.

• Spice it up. Sage, thyme or oregano are all great spices for enhancing flavor. If you are wanting something with a bit of a kick, add in some cumin, chili pepper or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

• Topping options. There are so many ways to doctor this breakfast casserole up. A dollop of sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, hot sauce for spice or maple syrup for a little sweetness.

• Bake in the oven. If you don't have a slow cooker or want it super fast- baking it will be the quickest way. Layer casserole in a 9x13 dish for 30-35 minutes in a 375 degrees F oven. The casserole is done when the eggs are set in the center and edges are browned.

Emily's Tips

• Spray your slow cooker/crockpot beforehand. The egg mixture along with the hashbrowns will stick to the bottom of the crockpot.

• Cook sausage before placing in slow cooker. Your sausage or whatever meat you choose to use should be cooked to avoid excess grease.

• Beat eggs until fluffy. This helps incorporate more air which creates a more lighter and fluffier egg.

• Thaw potatoes. To avoid the casserole becoming soggy, thaw and pat dry the hashbrown potatoes.

• Layer ingredients. Start with the potatoes and continue layering from there with the sausage, veggies and cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are in the slow cooker.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

I always prepare this slow cooker breakfast casserole for Christmas morning and serve it with my Gluten Free Cranberry Apple French Toast Bake. It is the perfect blend of sweet and savory. I also make my Gluten Free Eggnog Bread which we end up snacking on the rest of the day.

You can also pair with a side of fruit. And don't forget the toppings like sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and hot sauce. You can even drizzle some maple syrup overtop for a hint of sweetness.

Wash it all down with this Egg Nog Protein Shake or this Easy Spicy Hot Cocoa if you are enjoying this casserole during the holiday season. During the rest of the year, enjoy with your favorite cup of coffee, glass of milk or even this Lean Green Protein Smoothie for added protein.

FAQ's

Can I cook this breakfast casserole on high in the slow cooker?

Yes! You will want to cook it for half the time which will be for 4 hours on high.

Can I bake this breakfast casserole?

Yes! Layer the ingredients like you would if using a slow cooker into a 9x13 baking dish then bake at 375 degrees F until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.

Can I add raw meat to the slow cooker?

It is best to use pre-cooked meat to ensure it will be fully cooked as well as to avoid any excess grease.

Can this slow cooker breakfast casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the night before and place in the refrigerator covered overnight. Take it out the next morning or later that day and let heat up. This makes a great breakfast for dinner option too.

STORAGE

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Be sure its fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation.

For long term storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap then place in a freezer safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

To reheat, place in oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

I hope you give this Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole a try! If you do give this recipe a try, please let me know!

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