This Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a warm and cozy dish, perfect for holiday mornings. You’ll love the tasty combo of eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread all slow-cooked together.
It’s super easy to make! I just put everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic while I enjoy my coffee. Perfect for lazy festive mornings when you want delicious food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can choose either pork or turkey sausage based on your preference. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using a plant-based sausage substitute or omit it altogether and add more veggies.
Cheese: I love using a good sharp cheddar for flavor; however, mixing in mozzarella adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, swap in reduced-fat cheese or try a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are super convenient, but fresh or homemade ones can give a different texture. For a healthier twist, you could use diced sweet potatoes or zucchini instead.
Veggies: Feel free to get creative with the bell pepper! Other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli can work well in this dish. Just make sure to keep the quantity similar.
How Do I Ensure the Eggs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the eggs just right is crucial in this dish. Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk together well—this helps them mix smoothly with the other ingredients. Here are some steps:
- Be mindful of the cooking time; if you notice the edges starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife in the center; it should come out clean if the eggs are set.
- If cooking on high, check after 3 hours to avoid overcooking.
Slow cooking is forgiving, but keeping an eye on it can help ensure your casserole comes out fluffy and fully cooked all the way through!
Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing crockpot)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a great dish to set up in the morning and have ready for a delicious brunch without any stress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
First, grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or butter. This step is important to make it easy to serve later!
2. Mix the Eggs:
In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs and add the 1/4 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the cooked sausage, 2 cups of shredded cheese (remember to save a little for the top!), the thawed hash browns, and the diced red bell pepper. If you’re adding onion, toss that in too. Mix everything thoroughly!
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour the mixture into your greased crockpot. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese on top of the mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust!
6. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Check occasionally to ensure it’s not overcooking or burning at the edges. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set in the middle.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the casserole from the crockpot and slice it into portions. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or more diced bell pepper for a festive look! Serve warm, and if you like, add a drizzle of syrup or some hot sauce on the side.
Gather your family and enjoy this hearty casserole packed with flavors! Perfect for that cozy Christmas morning atmosphere, it’ll surely become a favorite in your holiday traditions.
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before, store it in the fridge, and then pour it into the crockpot in the morning. Just be sure to increase the cooking time slightly if the mixture is cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Sausage?
If you’re looking for a meatless option, you can replace the sausage with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, or use a plant-based sausage alternative to keep the same flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it gently on the stove until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze it, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.