Okay, friends, let’s talk about breakfast. Or brunch, or even a “breakfast for dinner” kinda night! I have a recipe that is just pure comfort food, easy enough for the weekdays, but special enough to make it special. Serve to company. I swear, once you try this, you’ll be hooked.Crockpot Breakfast Casserole Recipe., you’ll be making it all the time. If you love a classic strata, but hate the standing-at-the-oven part, this is your new best friend. It’s like a strata, but with that slow-cooked, set-it-and-forget-I magic of crockpot.
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What is a crockpot breakfast casserole?
A What is a crockpotWhat is a bread pudding? Think of it as a hearty, flavorful mix of bread, eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats and veggies. All cooked slowly in a crockpot until it’s puffy and golden brown. What is hands-off cooking? What is the beauty of a crockpot? When you wake up to the smells of your house, do you really need a sleepover? It’s also incredibly versatile. What fillings do you use in this recipe? I’ve done a southwestern version with chorizo and peppers…oh man, so good!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
How do I start with this recipe?flavorThe combination of savory sausage, melty cheese, and soft bread creates a symphony of textures and flavors. What tastes are irresistible? I think slow cooking really allows the flavors to meld together in a way that you just can’t imagine. don’t get with baking.simplicityIs crockpot a huge draw? I always do this when I know I have a busy morning ahead. Third, this recipe is surprisingly good.cost-effectiveWhat are some ways to use up leftover bread, veggies, and even bits of cheese that you have lying around? What’s a little sausage?versatilityCan you customize this with different meats, cheeses and veggies to suit your preferences? What do you love about this movie?What is a good crockpot breakfast casseroleHow stress free is it? I’ve made other casseroles that require a lot of babysitting, but this one? Just set it and forget it (almost!). If you love a good breakfast casserole but want something even easier than my Spinach and Feta Casserole, try this recipe. Breakfast Bake (which is also amazing, by the way): I love breakfast bake! What is the recipe for you? What is the perfect way to feed a crowd at brunch? Is there a way to be glued to the oven?
How do you make a crockpot breakfast casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this What is a crockpotIs it easier than you think? How do I cook sausage, bread, and breadcrumbs? What veggies do you want to include in your diet? If you have a large crockpot, pour over the top of the eggs, milk, and cheese. Then, you’ll layer everything in your cranpot and pour the cheese over top. Is it safe to cook on low for several hours? The slow cooking process ensures that the bread soaks up all the delicious flavors and that it is crispy. What are some good ways to cook a casserole? What’s the best part about breakfast?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole: For a
* 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old bread, cubed. I usually use a French baguette or Italian loaf, but any sturdy bread will work. If your bread is super fresh, you can lightly toast it to dry it out a bit.
* 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled. I like to use a mild or spicy sausage, depending on my mood. Can you use Italian sausage or even bacon? Drain off any excess grease after cooking.
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. What cheeses can you use? Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheese would be good.
* 6 large eggs. Make sure your eggs are fresh! They are the binder for the whole casserole.
I usually use whole milk for a richer flavor, but you can use 2% or even almond milk if you prefer. I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
* 1 teaspoon salt. Adjust to taste, depending on how salty your sausage is.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best!
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds a little extra flavor.
What is better with onion powder?
Optional Add-In
* 1 cup chopped vegetables (onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach, etc.). Get creative! I often throw in whatever veggies I have on hand. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, etc.) Adds a pop of freshness and flavor. I love using fresh chives. I like to use fresh parsley.
If you like a little heat, these are great additions.
How do I follow
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
How do you grease a crockpot? I also sometimes use a crockpot liner for easy cleanup – total lifesaver!
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Place half of the cubed bread in the bottom of a crockpot. Top with half of the cooked sausage, cheese, and any optional veggies or herbs. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Set aside. If there are streaks of egg yolk left, remove them from the yolk.
Step 4: Pour Egg Mixture Over the Top
In a crockpot, pour the bread and sausage mixture over the egg mixture. Gently press down on the bread to ensure that it’s all submerged in the egg mixture. This is important for cooking!
Step 5: Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the casserole is set and golden brown. Is there a way around the What is the best time to cook in a crockpot? How do you know if a knife is inserted into the center of the knife and comes out clean?
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once the casserole is cooked, turn off the crockpot and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit more and make it easier to slice.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
How do I slice a casserole into squares and serve hot? Is it a good idea to top it with sour cream, fresh herbs, or hot sauce?
What should I serve it with?
This What is a good crockpot breakfast casseroleWhat are some of the best side dishes to serve with a salad?For Breakfast:Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, and a cup of hot coffee or tea. I love pairing it with a bright and citrusy fruit salad to balance out the richness of the lemon. Would a mimosa hurt?For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread with a side of crispy bacon, a green salad with a light vinaigrette, and a selection of pastries. You could also offer a variety of juices, sparkling water, and maybe even a Bellini bar!
As Dessert: Okay, hear me out… a small slice of this savory casserole can actually be a surprisingly delicious dessert, especially if you’ve added a little sweetness to it with some maple syrup or brown sugar. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly decadent treat. This is perfect when you’re craving something sweet at 10pm but don’t want to bake a whole cake.
For Cozy Snacks: Curl up on the couch with a warm slice of this casserole and a mug of hot chocolate or apple cider on a cold winter day. Trust me, it’s the ultimate comfort food!
My family loves this casserole served with a side of cheesy grits. It’s a Southern thing, I guess, but it’s so good! My grandmother always made grits with her breakfast casseroles, so it’s a tradition that I’ve carried on.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
Want to take your crockpot breakfast casserole recipe to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:
Bread Choice Matters: Use a sturdy bread that will hold its shape and texture during cooking. Avoid soft, flimsy breads that will turn to mush. A French baguette, Italian loaf, or even sourdough bread are all great options.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your casserole and avoid overcooking it. Overcooked casserole can be dry and rubbery. It’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked, as it will continue to set up as it cools.
Customize Your Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Add different meats, cheeses, veggies, and herbs to suit your preferences. Some of my favorite combinations include ham and Swiss cheese, spinach and feta cheese, and bacon and cheddar cheese with diced tomatoes.
Add a Crunchy Topping: For a little extra crunch, sprinkle the top of the casserole with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter before cooking. This will create a golden brown and crispy topping that’s simply irresistible.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the egg mixture. You could also use a spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Make It Ahead: This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, pop it in the crockpot and cook as directed. This is a total lifesaver for busy mornings! I always do this when I know I won’t have time to cook in the morning.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have milk, heavy cream will work beautifully (and make it extra decadent!). If you don’t have sausage, bacon is always a great alternative. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover crockpot breakfast casserole recipe (which is rare in my house!), here are some tips for storing and reheating it:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving the casserole at room temperature for more than two hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing it.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Cut it into individual portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave individual portions until heated through. Or, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. I like to add a little extra cheese on top when reheating in the oven for extra melty goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Crockpot Breakfast Casserole Recipe! It’s seriously one of the easiest and most delicious breakfast recipes I know. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a busy week, or just craving some comfort food, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. The slow cooking makes it so incredibly flavorful, and the customization options are endless. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other breakfast recipes, like my Overnight French Toast Casserole (another great make-ahead option!) and my Blueberry Pancakes (perfect for a lazy Sunday morning).
Happy cooking, everyone! I can’t wait to hear how your casseroles turn out. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what variations you tried. And if you loved this recipe, please give it a rating and share it with your friends!
Crockpot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Breakfast Sausage
- 6 large Eggs
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 0.5 cup Chopped Onion
- 1 cup Chopped Green Bell Pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Add the cooked sausage, cheese, onion, and green pepper to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until set.
