This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is a warm and cozy way to start your day. With eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats and veggies, it’s packed with flavor and super easy to make!
Throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your morning coffee. I love how it fills the house with an amazing smell—hello, breakfast happiness! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is crucial for flavor. You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or replace it with diced ham or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. I often mix different meats for extra flavor!
Eggs: Fresh large eggs work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can try using chickpea flour mixed with water (about 1/4 cup chickpea flour and 1/4 cup water for each egg).
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative if you’re lactose intolerant.
Mushrooms and Bell Peppers: These add great texture and taste. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, zucchini or spinach are good alternatives. You can use any color combination of bell peppers based on your preference.
Milk: You can use whole, almond, or oat milk based on your dietary preferences.
Bread Cubes: If you want to avoid carbs, just skip them or use a gluten-free bread option.
How Can I Make Sure My Breakfast Casserole Is Fluffy?
To achieve that fluffy texture you desire, especially when using eggs, there are a few key steps to follow:
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly with the milk and baking powder. This incorporates air and helps them rise.
- Cook the sausage beforehand to drain excess fat, which helps prevent sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker. This allows heat to evenly distribute and the eggs to fluff up.
Trust me, giving enough time for the mixture to bake properly in the slower cooker will pay off in texture and flavor!
Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (or ground sausage)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (red or any color)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup bread cubes (optional, to add some texture)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder (to help fluff the eggs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for 6 to 7 hours on low or 2.5 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for your busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your casserole doesn’t get greasy.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms and diced bell peppers until they are softened, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once done, remove them from heat.
3. Mix Eggs and Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, baking powder, salt, and pepper until everything is fully combined. This will be your egg base!
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Add the cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, bread cubes (if you’re using them), and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
5. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Lightly grease your slow cooker insert with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. It helps everything come out smoothly!
6. Cook:
Pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the eggs are set and cooked through. The wait will be worth it!
7. Add Bacon and Garnish:
Just before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the cooked crumbled bacon on top and add the chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve:
Cut the casserole into squares, serve warm, and enjoy! For a fun twist, you can also garnish each piece with a fresh egg yolk in the middle! Just crack an egg carefully on the surface halfway through cooking.
Enjoy your hearty, comforting slow cooker breakfast casserole as a delightful start to your day!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, diced ham, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can prep the casserole ingredients the night before! Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and set it to cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. You might want to add a splash of milk or a bit of cheese to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them small and sauté them first to ensure they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
