Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole

This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch recipe. Packed with eggs, cheese, hash browns, and sausage (or ham), it’s a hearty, flavorful dish that cooks hands-free while you sleep or get ready for the day. Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or busy mornings, this comforting casserole brings everyone to the table.

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Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 orange bell pepper, diced
• 1 small white onion, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies

Egg Mixture

• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Main Layers

• 30 oz package frozen shredded hash browns
• 1 lb breakfast sausage or diced ham (a great way to use up leftover holiday ham)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Garnishes

• Diced green onions
• Chives
• Hot sauce

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Instructions

1. Cook the Vegetables
   Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
   Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the diced green chilies just before removing the pan from heat.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Casserole
   Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
   • Create the first layer using half of the frozen hash browns, half of the cooked sausage or ham, half of the sautéed vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
4. Add the Egg Mixture
   Pour the whisked eggs evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
5. Cook the Casserole
   • Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or on LOW for 7–9 hours, until the eggs are fully set and cooked through.
6. Serve and Garnish
   Once cooked, garnish with diced green onions, chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. Slice and serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless and convenient: The slow cooker does all the work — perfect for busy mornings or overnight cooking.
• Feeds a crowd: Great for brunch gatherings, holidays, or meal prep for the week.
• Customizable: Works with sausage, ham, bacon, or even vegetarian substitutes.
• Comforting and hearty: Classic breakfast ingredients come together in one delicious, cheesy bite.

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Tips

• Use pre-cooked sausage: Saves time and ensures your casserole isn’t greasy.
• Grease your slow cooker well: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Don’t skip the Dijon mustard: It enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the eggs.
• For crispier edges: Crack the lid slightly open during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Make it ahead: Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate, then cook in the morning.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat options: Try crumbled bacon, turkey sausage, or vegetarian sausage.
• Cheese swaps: Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss instead of cheddar.
• Vegetable add-ins: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Dairy-free option: Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk and use dairy-free cheese.
• Spicy version: Mix in jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or spicy sausage.

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FAQs

Can I cook this overnight?
Yes! Set your slow cooker to LOW and cook for 7–8 hours overnight. You’ll wake up to a warm, ready-to-serve breakfast.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely. Shred or dice your potatoes and pat them dry before layering to remove excess moisture.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool completely, then portion and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

What size slow cooker should I use?
A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with fresh fruit, toast, or a side salad for a balanced breakfast.
• Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a spoonful of salsa for extra flavor.
• Perfect for holiday brunches, weekend gatherings, or meal prep breakfasts.
• Pair with freshly brewed coffee or orange juice for a complete morning spread.