Okay, picture this: What is the it’s Sunday morning, you’re still half asleep, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in bed. What is it like to slave over a hot stove? Where is this post?Crockpot Breakfast CasseroleWhat is the breakfast version of a warm hug? Is it easier to make pancakes from scratch? Breakfast that’s ready when you are. Is it easier to cook in a Slow Cooker than my grandmother’s strata? The heavy lifting!

What is a crockpot breakfast casserole?

A Crockpot Breakfast CasseroleWhat are your favorite breakfast foods? Eggs, cheese, sausage (or bacon)? ), bread – all layered together in a Slow Cooker and cooked to perfection. Think of it as a savory bread pudding, but specifically designed for breakfast. What’s a dump-and-go recipe? What is the recommended amount of individual servings for the week? What is the beauty of simplicity? The slow cooker makes it incredibly moist. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients. What is it like to wake up to the smell of a freshly made breakfast?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What do you love about this book?Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is how incredibly forgiving it is. You can’t really mess it up, even if you’re not a seasoned cook. Here’s why you absolutely need this recipe in your life:

Flavor explosion!What is the combination of savory sausage and bacon? ), fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and slightly crusty bread is just…heavenly. What is the slow cooking process?
EffortlessWhat is a dump-and-go recipe? Seriously, you just layer everything in the crockpot, set it, and forget it. What is a good breakfast for saturdays?
Budget friendlyWhat can I use leftover bread for? What are some veggies that need to be used up? How do I use up all the odds and ends in my fridge without breaking the bank?
Versatile.This recipe is infinitely customizable. Can you substitute bacon for sausage, add different cheeses, sneak in veggies? Is this gluten-free? What are some simple swaps?

What’s better than a bowl of cereal? What are your favorite brunch dishes? If you like a good quiche or strata, you’re going to be obsessed with this!

How do you make a crockpot breakfast casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this Crockpot Breakfast CasseroleIs honestly a breeze? How do I make a Slow Cooker egg mixture? What is the best way to cook everything overnight? What is a slow cooker casserole? What is a good make-ahead breakfast? Is it easier than you think? I always do this the night before a holiday so that my family can enjoy breakfast together without worrying about it.

Ingredients

For the Main Base:

What are the best eggs to buy? Farm fresh are always my favorite, if you can get your hands on them.
I’ve used everything from skim to whole milk in this recipe, and it always turns out great. I tested it with almond milk once, and it actually made it even creamier!
1 teaspoon salt: This is crucial for bringing out the flavors.
12 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: This adds subtle tang that really elevates the flavor.
1 loaf (about 1 pound) bread, cubed: I usually use a day-old French bread or sourdough, but any bread will work. Even Texas toast works.

For the Filling:

1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled. Can you use any sausage you like – Italian, maple, spicy… the choice is yours! Bacon is another great option.
1 cup shredded cheese: 1 tablespoon melted cheese I usually use cheddar, but you can use any cheese you like – mozzarella, Monterey Jack, pepper jack… I like using a blend of cheddar and gruyere for rich flavor.
12 cup chopped onion: Adds a nice savory note.
12 cup chopped bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and flavor.

What are the Step-

Step 1: Prep Your Crockpot

How do I grease my Slow Cooker with cooking spray? How do you remove a casserole from the oven? I always do this, even though my slow cooker is non-stick, just to be on the safe side. What are some ways to use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup?

Step 2: Layer the Bread

How do you cook bread in a slow cooker? What are the other ingredients to create a nice base for cooking? Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even. The bread will soak up the egg mixture and soften with it.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage, cheese, onion, and bell pepper over the bread. I like to distribute the ingredients evenly so that every bite is packed with flavor. If you’re using bacon, make sure it’s nice and crispy before you add it.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Repeat layers with remaining bread, sausage, cheese, onion, and bell pepper. How do you make sure that the casserole is evenly filled and that every layer is bursting with flavor?

Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined. Why is Dijon mustard a secret weapon? What is the richness of the other ingredients?

Step 6: Pour over Layers

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and sausage layers. Gently press down on the bread with a spoon to make sure it’s fully submerged in the egg mixture. This will ensure that the bread soaks up all the delicious flavor and the casserole is nice and easy to make.

Step 7: Cook it Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. What is the cooking time of a slow cooker? The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden brown. I usually check it after 6 hours on low to make sure it’s not overcooking. When I cook this recipe on low overnight I wake up to the smell of breakfast! It’s amazing.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from falling apart. I usually let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into it.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Crockpot Breakfast Casserole warm, and enjoy! I like to top it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa, if I’m feeling fancy. It’s also great with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad.

What to Serve It With

This Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is a star all on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite things to serve with it:

For Breakfast: A simple cup of coffee or a mimosa. If you’re feeling ambitious, try a homemade latte.
For Brunch: Fresh fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, or a side of crispy bacon. Elegant plating can elevate the experience.
As Dessert: This might sound weird, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top is surprisingly delicious. Or, try a drizzle of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
For Cozy Snacks: Serve it with a warm blanket and a good book! It’s the ultimate comfort food.

My family always asks for orange juice on the side. It’s the perfect complement to the savory flavors of the casserole.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

After making this Crockpot Breakfast Casserole countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here are my top tips for perfecting this recipe:

Bread Prep: Use day-old bread for the best texture. Fresh bread will get too soggy. I like to cube the bread the night before and let it sit out to dry slightly.
Cheese Choice: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while Gruyere adds a nutty, sophisticated flavor. I once tried it with smoked Gouda, and it was amazing!
Sausage Variety: Use your favorite type of sausage. Italian sausage adds a spicy kick, while maple sausage adds a touch of sweetness. You can even use vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version.
Mix-Ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Add some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
Overnight Magic: For the most flavorful casserole, let it sit in the slow cooker overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the cooking time. Overcooked eggs can become rubbery. The casserole is done when the eggs are set but still slightly moist.
Glaze Variations: I’ve tried several cheese variations, and they all come out fantastic! This is where you can customize depending on if you want a spicy dish or not.

Trust me on this one: a little Dijon mustard in the egg mixture makes all the difference. It adds a subtle tang that really elevates the flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is great for meal prepping or for making ahead and serving later. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s still tasty on the 4th day, but make sure it isn’t past this!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Reheat leftover casserole in the microwave or oven. To reheat in the microwave, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. To reheat in the oven, preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

I usually make a big batch on Sunday and then reheat individual slices throughout the week for a quick and easy breakfast. It’s a lifesaver on busy mornings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free bread and make sure your sausage is gluten-free. I’ve used gluten-free bread before and it works great. It might be a little more crumbly, but it will still taste delicious.

Do I need to cook the sausage before adding it to the casserole?

Yes, you need to cook the sausage before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure that it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. I usually cook it in a skillet on the stovetop, but you can also cook it in the microwave.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Some of my favorites include chopped spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Then, cook it in the slow cooker as directed in the recipe.

My casserole is too dry. What did I do wrong?

You might have overcooked it. Slow cookers can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time. The casserole is done when the eggs are set but still slightly moist. You can also try adding a little extra milk to the egg mixture next time.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Breakfast Casserole has become a staple in my house, and I hope it becomes one in yours too! It’s the perfect way to start your day with a delicious and satisfying meal, without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick and easy breakfast for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. If you love this recipe, you should definitely try my Overnight French Toast Casserole – it’s another family favorite! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what variations you try!