Imagine waking up to the mouthwatering aroma of a hearty breakfast casserole that practically cooks itself while you sleep! This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Cheese is the ultimate morning game-changer that combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs into one incredible dish. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping for a weekend brunch, this hands-off recipe will transform your breakfast routine from boring to extraordinary in just a few simple steps.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups frozen hash browns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the sausage is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Layer the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker, creating the first base layer.
- Spread the cooked sausage crumbles evenly over the hash browns.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the sausage layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers, making sure it seeps down and covers all ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 hours, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is cooked through.
- Once cooking is complete, turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Cut into squares and serve hot.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality breakfast sausage and consider mixing different types of cheese like cheddar and monterey jack.
- Make sure to drain the sausage thoroughly to prevent excess grease in your casserole.
- If you're short on time in the morning, prep all ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Simply assemble in the slow cooker and start cooking when you wake up.
- To prevent sticking, generously grease your slow cooker or use a slow cooker liner.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute turkey sausage and use low-fat cheese.
- Let the casserole rest after cooking to help it set and make cutting easier.
- Customize your casserole by adding diced bell peppers, onions, or switching up the meat with bacon or ham.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 250mg
