Overnight Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to start the day without the morning hustle. I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy holiday season when I needed a hearty breakfast for family gatherings. The combination of savory breakfast sausage, melty colby jack cheese, and fluffy eggs creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for special occasions or leisurely weekend brunches. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work while you sleep, allowing you to wake up to a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Overnight Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is not just another breakfast recipe; it’s the epitome of convenience and flavor. It’s wonderfully budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and kid-approved! Perfect for feeding a crowd, it shines during holiday mornings but is equally satisfying for weekday breakfasts.

“It was the perfect start to our Christmas Day! Everyone devoured it!” – A happy home cook.

How This Recipe Comes Together

This breakfast casserole is simple to prepare and flows effortlessly. You’ll start by browning the sausage, followed by layering the ingredients in your slow cooker. Sprinkle garlic salt for flavor, then pour the egg and milk mixture over it all. Let the slow cooker do its magic for eight hours, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious breakfast that’s perfectly set by the time you wake up.

Gather These Items

To whip up this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 roll Breakfast Sausage
• 1 30 oz bag Frozen shredded potatoes
• 1 32 oz Shredded colby jack cheese
• 8-12 eggs, beaten
• 2-4 Cups milk
• 1 tbsp garlic salt

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can use turkey sausage as a leaner option or substitute the colby jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for different flavors.

Directions to Follow

1. Brown the sausage. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until fully browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Layer the potatoes. Place half of the frozen shredded potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.

3. Add cheese. Spread a layer of shredded colby jack cheese over the potatoes.

4. Add sausage. Layer half of the cooked sausage on top of the cheese and potatoes.

5. Repeat layers. Add the remaining shredded potatoes, sausage, and cheese in the same order as before.

6. Season it. Sprinkle garlic salt evenly over the layered mixture.

7. Prepare the egg mixture. In a bowl, beat together the eggs and milk.

8. Pour the eggs. Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.

9. Cook. Set the slow cooker on low and let it cook for 8 hours.

10. Serve. Slice and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To elevate your breakfast experience, consider garnishing your casserole with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or chives. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. If you’re looking to pair it with drinks, a hot cup of coffee or a mimosa would round out your brunch perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm up individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through. Make sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For a perfectly layered casserole, allow the sausage to cool slightly before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help maintain the structure of the layers. Additionally, using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged can enhance the flavor and meltability.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this casserole to fit your taste preferences! Try adding sautéed bell peppers or spinach for a veggie boost. You can also swap out the colby jack cheese for pepper jack if you enjoy a bit of heat. For a tasty twist, mix in some cooked bacon or ham for an extra savory bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare it a day ahead?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the fridge, and set it in the slow cooker in the morning.

What other types of cheese can I use?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack would work wonderfully as substitutes.

How do I ensure it doesn’t dry out?

Make sure your egg mixture has enough milk; 2-4 cups ensure a creamy consistency. Covering the slow cooker will also help retain moisture.

Now that you have all the details, you’ll be ready to impress your family and friends with this Overnight Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole. Enjoy the cheers and compliments that come your way!

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