This Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a warm, cozy dish perfect for the holidays. Packed with eggs, cheese, and tasty veggies or sausage, it fills your home with a lovely aroma!
It’s so easy to make; just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic while you sip your coffee. Honestly, what’s better than breakfast cooking itself? 🎄☕
I love serving this casserole to family on Christmas morning. It’s filling and lets us enjoy quality time together—no one wants to miss out on that! Just a slice and a smile! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: The sausage adds a hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too. For a vegetarian version, use cooked mushrooms or a meat substitute.
Eggs: Large eggs are the base of this casserole. If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, you can try a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) as a substitute.
Milk: Regular milk keeps it creamy, but you can swap it with almond milk or oat milk for a non-dairy option.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can give it a nice twist.
Hash Browns: Frozen ones are super convenient! If you prefer, fresh grated potatoes can also work. Just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture.
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Texture with Eggs?
Getting the eggs just right is key to a tasty casserole. Follow these steps to make sure they don’t end up rubbery:
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly with milk to incorporate air. This helps fluff them up.
- Don’t skip letting the casserole rest post-cooking. It helps set the mixture, preventing a soggy bottom.
- Cook on low, as high heat can toughen the eggs—slow and steady is the way to go!
Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced onion
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Garnish (optional):
- Fresh thyme or chives
Time Needed:
This delightful casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Cooking in your crockpot will take either 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH, making it perfect for a slow Christmas morning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier afterward.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is well combined—this is what makes your casserole fluffy!
3. Combine the Casserole Ingredients:
Add in the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, thawed hash browns, diced red bell pepper, diced onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir carefully until all the ingredients are evenly mixed!
4. Pour into the Crockpot:
Pour the mixture into your prepared crockpot, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy finish!
5. Start Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the top is golden and bubbly. This is where the magic happens!
6. Let it Rest:
Once done, turn off the crockpot and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little more before you cut into it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the casserole into portions and serve warm. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy it alongside fresh bread or toast for a lovely Christmas breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Directly?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are completely thawed before using them in the casserole to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble all the ingredients the night before and store the mixture in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pour it into the crockpot and start cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Sausage?
If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works great! For a vegetarian version, try using sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Enjoy it for breakfast or even as a tasty snack!