Breakfast casserole in the crock pot! Cooks while you sleep!
An Overnight Breakfast Delight: Crock Pot Breakfast Casserole
Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of a warm, hearty breakfast that’s already been cooked while you were snug in bed. This breakfast casserole, made effortlessly in a crock pot, is the perfect solution for busy mornings or when you have guests. It’s simple, customizable, and absolutely delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Prepare it the night before and let your crock pot do the work as you sleep.
- Customizable: Use your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand to make it your own.
- Perfect for Guests: Impress your overnight guests with a hot breakfast without the morning rush.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or blender
- Wooden spoon
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 bag (26 oz.) frozen hash browns
- 12 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon ground mustard
- 1 (16 oz.) roll of sausage (maple, sage, or regular)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (16 oz.) bag shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spray the crock pot with non-stick spray and spread the hash browns evenly at the bottom.
- In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together well.
- Add the milk and ground mustard to the eggs, seasoning with plenty of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over high heat, then drain and set aside.
- Layer the cooked sausage over the hash browns in the crock pot.
- Spread the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the crock pot. Use a wooden spoon to even everything out.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Tips for Success
- Blend for Fluffiness: Try blending the egg mixture to incorporate air, resulting in a fluffier texture.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your crock pot, check the casserole at 6 hours to prevent overcooking.
Additional Tips & Variations
- Swap the sausage for Canadian bacon, cooked bacon, or even ham for a different flavor.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to increase nutritional value and taste.
- Top with hot sauce or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While specific nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients used, this casserole is packed with protein from eggs and sausage, and offers a hearty serving of carbohydrates from the hash browns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before adding them to the crock pot.
Q: How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: You can omit the sausage and add more vegetables or use a plant-based sausage alternative.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like waking up to a delicious, warm breakfast that’s ready to serve. This crock pot breakfast casserole is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile and satisfying. Give it a try and let us know how you made it your own! Share your experiences and any creative variations you came up with in the comments below. Happy cooking!
