This Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a festive delight! With eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats, it’s perfect for holiday mornings. Just set it and forget it!
This dish is so easy, you can sip hot cocoa while it cooks. I love how it fills the house with yummy smells. Plus, you get a warm meal ready when the family wakes up—what a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Hashbrowns: These create a great base for the casserole. If you can’t find frozen hashbrowns, you can use fresh potatoes or even shredded carrots for a twist. Just shred and cook them slightly before adding.
Breakfast Sausage: I love pork sausage for flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage works too for a leaner option. If you prefer plant-based meals, crumbled tofu or a meat substitute can be excellent choices.
Red Bell Pepper & Onion: Both add sweetness and crunch. You can substitute with other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini if you want to mix it up a bit!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for flavor. If you want something lighter or different, try Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese. Blend different cheeses for a unique taste!
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the eggs to set is crucial for this casserole. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Thaw Hashbrowns Well: Drain excess moisture to prevent a soggy base.
- Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs thoroughly; this helps incorporate air and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Cooking Time: Make sure to cook it long enough. If you find the center wobbly, give it more time on low heat.
- Lid On: Keep the lid on during cooking to trap steam and heat, which helps in cooking the eggs evenly.
With these tips, you’ll have a delightful and fluffy breakfast casserole that the whole family will love!
Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen hashbrowns, thawed and drained
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
Egg Mixture:
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley, plus more for garnish
Cheese:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for 6-7 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in your crockpot. Perfect for a busy Christmas morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This makes for easy clean-up later! Then, spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the crockpot. Make sure they’re well-distributed for a nice base.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Once the hashbrowns are in place, layer on the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, followed by the diced red bell pepper and diced onion. This colorful mix not only adds flavor but also makes your casserole look festive!
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix until everything is well combined and the eggs are fluffy. Be sure to incorporate a bit of air into the mix for a nice texture!
4. Combine with Cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture, mixing well to add cheesy goodness to every bite.
5. Pour and Sprinkle:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the crockpot, ensuring it gets into all the nooks and crannies. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top for a delicious cheesy crust.
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just let it work its magic, and your house will start smelling amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully lift out the casserole using a spatula or serve directly from the crockpot. Garnish with some extra parsley for a touch of freshness, then let it cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Enjoy your cozy holiday breakfast with family and friends!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, peel and shred them, then cook them in a skillet for a few minutes to soften before layering them in the crockpot.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just chop them small so they cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Casserole?
Certainly! You can substitute the sausage with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based sausage. This will give you a tasty vegetarian breakfast without losing flavor!
