Wake up to the tantalizing aroma of a hearty breakfast casserole that practically cooks itself while you sleep! Our Crock Pot Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate morning game-changer, perfect for busy families or anyone who craves a delicious, hassle-free breakfast. With layers of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese all nestled atop a bed of buttery bread, this dish is not just a meal—it's a morning celebration! Dive into this easy recipe that yields 8 generous servings, and discover how you can enjoy a warm, satisfying breakfast without the morning rush. Your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and the sausage is fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Layer the ingredients in the crock pot in the following order: first spread the cubed bread as the bottom layer, then add the cooked sausage crumbles evenly across the bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sausage layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over all the layers, making sure to saturate the bread and cover all ingredients.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for 7-8 hours overnight or during the early morning hours.
- After cooking time is complete, check that the eggs are set and the casserole is heated through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
- Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped herbs or additional black pepper.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save even more time in the morning, you can prepare the sausage and mix the egg ingredients the night before. Simply layer everything in the crock pot in the morning and set it to cook while you catch some extra Z's!
- Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Feel free to experiment with different types of breakfast sausage—spicy, mild, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each will give the casserole a unique flavor profile.
- Customize Your Cheese: While shredded cheese is a must, you can mix it up by using a blend of your favorites, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a kick.
- Add Veggies: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the mixture. Sauté them with the sausage for added flavor!
- Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, you can cook the casserole on high for about 4 hours instead of low for 7-8 hours. Just make sure to check that the eggs are fully set.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a dash of hot sauce, can elevate your casserole to gourmet status!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 280mg
