This Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a warm and cozy dish, perfect for holiday gatherings. With fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and tasty cheese, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to throw everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while I sip my coffee. Holidays are for relaxing, right? ☕🎄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for a fluffy texture. For a healthier option, you can use egg whites or egg substitutes, but the flavor and texture will change slightly.
Milk: Whole milk makes it rich but you can easily switch to skim milk or non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk if desired.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage, but turkey or chicken sausage work well too for a lighter version. Veggie sausage is a great substitution if you’re looking for a meat-free option!
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch. You can use turkey bacon or leave it out for a healthier or vegetarian dish. Smoked bacon adds extra flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to for a bold flavor. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Hash Browns: I prefer using frozen hash browns for convenience. If you have fresh potatoes, you can shred them, but make sure to rinse and dry them before layering. Sweet potatoes are also a tasty alternative!
How Do I Ensure the Casserole Cooks Evenly?
Layering is key to a well-cooked casserole. Start with the hash browns at the bottom to soak up moisture, followed by the cooked sausage and bacon so they don’t get too soggy. Then, pour the egg mixture on top, ensuring it seeps through the layers.
- Make sure the crockpot is prepped with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Don’t skip thawing the hash browns, as this ensures even cooking and a good texture.
- Cover and cook on low for a full 6-8 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Once done, let it cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces. Enjoy your warm, comforting breakfast!
Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes to prep and then you can set your crockpot to cook for 6-8 hours. Perfect for overnight preparation, so you can wake up to a warm and hearty breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure that your casserole comes out easily once it’s cooked.
2. Whisk Together the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is well combined. This mixture will be the base of your casserole.
3. Layer the Hash Browns:
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly at the bottom of the crockpot. This will act as the foundation of your delicious breakfast casserole.
4. Add the Breakfast Sausage:
Next, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage evenly over the layer of hash browns. This adds a hearty flavor to the casserole.
5. Include the Bacon and Bell Pepper:
Now, add the chopped bacon and diced red bell pepper on top of the sausage. These ingredients will bring more texture and color to the dish!
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Evenly pour the egg mixture over all the layers in the crockpot. Make sure it covers everything well so that every bite is packed with flavor.
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it cooks!
8. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The casserole is done when the egg is fully set and cooked through. It’s like waking up to a warm hug!
9. Finish with Fresh Parsley:
Once the casserole is cooked, gently sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
10. Slice and Serve:
Carefully slice the casserole and serve warm. Enjoy this cozy Christmas breakfast casserole with family and friends!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the layers the night before, refrigerate them separately, and assemble in the crockpot in the morning. Just adjust the cooking time to account for the chilled ingredients, potentially extending it by an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage?
If you want to switch it up, turkey sausage or chicken sausage are great lower-fat alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled tofu or your favorite plant-based sausage.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individually in the microwave, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.