Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast casserole is everything you could want in a morning meal: convenient, flavorful, and customizable. The combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, cheesy goodness, and the richness of eggs and milk creates a comforting dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. And because it’s made in a crockpot, there’s no need to hover over the stove—just layer the ingredients, set the timer, and enjoy a warm breakfast with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Frozen shredded hash browns (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Green onions (sliced)

• Milk (your choice of type)

• Eggs (large, in-shell)

• Salt

• Pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray or butter.

2. Layer the Hash Browns: Spread a layer of frozen shredded hash browns at the bottom of the crockpot.

3. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until fully browned, breaking it apart into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add the Sausage: Layer the cooked sausage over the hash browns in the crockpot.

5. Add the Cheeses: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the sausage layer.

6. Add the Eggs and Milk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the ingredients in the crockpot.

7. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.

8. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the casserole is fully set and the eggs are cooked through. The top should be golden and slightly crispy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low in the crockpot

This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or for having leftovers throughout the week. It’s easy to scale up or down depending on how many people you’re serving.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and use additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.

• Add Spices: Spice it up with a sprinkle of paprika, chili flakes, or cumin to add some heat and depth of flavor.

• Swap the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a little kick or feta for a Mediterranean twist.

• Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free cheese to make this casserole dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it into the crockpot in the morning and cook as usual.

Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?

Yes! You can freeze it either before or after cooking. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Frozen hash browns work best for this recipe since they hold up well in the slow cooker. Fresh hash browns may become too soggy.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of regular breakfast sausage?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken sausage is a great leaner option that works perfectly in this casserole.

How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?

The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set, and the top is golden and slightly crispy. You can insert a toothpick into the center to check if it comes out clean.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture before adding them to the crockpot.

Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?

Yes, you can use egg whites, but the texture may be slightly different. The casserole will be lighter and fluffier.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to serve a larger group. Just make sure your crockpot is big enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage and hash browns.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and convenient option for busy mornings. With minimal prep and the help of your slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Enjoy the comfort of a home-cooked breakfast with none of the hassle!