Have you ever wondered how you can prepare a delicious breakfast that not only delights your taste buds but also saves you precious morning time? Enter the Crockpot Breakfast Casserole—an ideal solution for busy families and meal preppers that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. This savory dish marries the convenience of a slow cooker with the comforting tastes of a hearty breakfast, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both taste and simplicity.
Ingredients Needed
To create this scrumptious Crockpot Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients. Each one contributes unique flavors and textures to the dish:
- 28 ounces O’Brien hash browns: These frozen potatoes come with a medley of onions and peppers, adding instant flavor and texture.
- 1 medium green bell pepper (diced, 1 cup): Adds a crisp texture and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 medium red bell pepper (diced, 1 cup): Offers vibrant color and extra sweetness, complementing the green pepper.
- ½ cup sweet yellow onion (diced): Provides aromatic depth and a savory taste.
- 1 pound mild breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled, 2 cups): The heart of the dish, adding richness and protein.
- 1 pound smoked bacon (cooked and crumbled, 1¼ cups): Enhances flavor with its smokiness, giving the casserole a delightful twist.
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded): Melts to create a gooey, cheesy layer that ties the dish together.
- 12 large eggs: The base of the casserole, providing structure and protein.
- ¾ cup half and half: Adds creaminess and moisture to the eggs.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Boosts the savory flavor profile without additional chopping.
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Boosts the dish’s overall flavors.
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the richness.
Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions—like using turkey sausage for a leaner option or almond milk in place of half and half for a dairy-free version!
Timing
This Crockpot Breakfast Casserole requires approximately 10 minutes of preparation and 8 hours of cooking time on low heat. This totals 8 hours and 10 minutes, making it a practical choice for overnight cooking. That’s roughly 20% less time than a traditional oven-baked breakfast casserole!
How to Make Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Generously spray a 6 to 7-quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This initial step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Hash Browns
Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared crockpot. This layer serves as the foundation of your casserole.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Sprinkle the diced green and red bell peppers and diced onion over the hash browns, distributing them evenly to ensure balanced flavor throughout the dish.
Step 4: Include the Meats
Sprinkle the cooked sausage and cooked bacon on top of the vegetables. The meat should cover the veggies, setting up an excellent contrast in textures.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Generously sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer, creating a cheesy barrier that will melt beautifully during cooking.
Step 6: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 12 eggs, half and half, onion powder, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper until fully combined. This step is crucial for ensuring a uniform egg mixture.
Step 7: Pour and Cook
Pour the egg mixture over the cheese layer. Finally, cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as the heat is essential for a fluffy casserole.
Nutritional Information
This delightful Crockpot Breakfast Casserole serves approximately eight people. Each serving contains:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 27 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
- Total Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
These values will vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Healthier Alternatives for Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
For those looking to make the Crockpot Breakfast Casserole a bit healthier, consider these swaps:
- Use egg whites or a low-cholesterol egg substitute to cut calories.
- Substitute turkey bacon and turkey sausage for a leaner meat profile.
- Incorporate spinach or kale for added vitamins and minerals without excessive calories.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your breakfast experience with these serving ideas:
- Serve with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
- Pair with fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Crockpot Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly:
- Avoid using thawed hash browns; frozen works best for texture.
- Don’t over-stuff the crockpot; this recipe is designed for a 6 to 7-quart size.
- Resist the temptation to peek during the first few hours of cooking to maintain even heat.
Storing Tips for Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
To preserve the deliciousness of your casserole:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
- You can also freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is not only a time-saver but a complete breakfast that everyone can enjoy. With its rich layers of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for gatherings and meal prep alike. We invite you to try this recipe, embrace the flavor explosion, and don’t hesitate to share your feedback or explore similar delicious posts on our blog!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the layers in your crockpot and refrigerate overnight. Just make sure to cook it straight from the refrigerator in the morning.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a strong flavor, you can easily substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully cooked and set. It should not be runny in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I add additional vegetables?
Certainly! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini to enhance the nutrient content and flavor of your casserole.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Crockpot Breakfast Casserole!
Print
Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Total Time: 490 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A savory and convenient breakfast casserole made in a crockpot, perfect for busy mornings and meal prep.
Ingredients
- 28 ounces O’Brien hash browns
- 1 medium green bell pepper (diced, 1 cup)
- 1 medium red bell pepper (diced, 1 cup)
- ½ cup sweet yellow onion (diced)
- 1 pound mild breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled, 2 cups)
- 1 pound smoked bacon (cooked and crumbled, 1¼ cups)
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 12 large eggs
- ¾ cup half and half
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Generously spray a 6 to 7-quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared crockpot.
- Sprinkle the diced green and red bell peppers and diced onion over the hash browns.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and cooked bacon on top of the vegetables.
- Generously sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, onion powder, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper until fully combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese layer, cover the crockpot, and cook on low for 8 hours.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions like turkey sausage or almond milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 600mg
Keywords: breakfast casserole, slow cooker, crockpot recipe, easy breakfast, meal prep