This Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a warm and cozy way to start your holiday morning. Packed with eggs, cheese, and tasty sausage, it smells just like Christmas magic!
You just toss everything in your Crockpot and let it do all the work. It’s perfect for when you’re busy wrapping gifts or keeping an eye on the little ones. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: I like using regular pork breakfast sausage for its rich flavor. You can swap it for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner taste, or even skip it for a vegetarian version using veggies instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick, but you can use mild cheddar or even a cheese blend. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat or Swiss for a milder flavor.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are super convenient! If you have fresh potatoes, peel and shred them; just remember to squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.
Onion & Bell Pepper: These are optional, but I think they add great flavor. If you’re not a fan, leave them out, or you can use chopped green onions for a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Eggs to Set Perfectly?
Getting the eggs set just right is crucial for a great casserole. The key is to follow the cooking times closely. Cook it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Keep the lid on during cooking to let it steam!
- Start checking for doneness about 30 minutes before the recommended cooking time. The eggs should be firm but not rubbery.
- If the center looks jiggly but the edges feel set, it’s almost ready. Just let it cook a bit longer!
Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish – optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks for either 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in your crockpot. A perfect set-and-forget breakfast for Christmas morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Begin by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray or a little butter. This ensures that your casserole comes out easily after cooking!
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and pour in the milk. Use a whisk to combine them thoroughly. Don’t forget to add some salt and pepper for extra flavor!
3. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Add the thawed hash brown potatoes, crumbled breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, and diced green bell pepper (if using) into the bowl. Gently stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Pour into the Crockpot:
Carefully pour the entire mixture into the greased crockpot, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
5. Set to Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. Choose LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Enjoy the delicious smells as it cooks!
6. Add Toppings Before Serving:
About 15 minutes before the casserole is ready, sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the top. Cover again and let it warm through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once fully cooked, carefully scoop out portions onto plates. If you’d like, you can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a festive touch. Serve warm and savor the joy of Christmas morning!
This casserole is a fun, hearty way to feed a crowd during the holidays, leaving you free to enjoy quality time with family and friends!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Yes, you can substitute whole eggs with egg whites if you prefer a lighter option! Generally, 2 egg whites equal 1 whole egg, so you can use about 12 egg whites for this recipe. Just be mindful that the texture may be slightly different.
What Type of Sausage Should I Use?
I recommend using breakfast sausage for the best flavor! You can opt for pork sausage for richness, or use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner alternative. If you want a spicier kick, look for a spicy sausage!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more veggies to boost flavor and texture. Consider using ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to keep it hearty and delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to keep it moist!
