Wake up to the irresistible aroma of a Slow Cooker Southwest Breakfast Casserole that will transform your mornings into a fiesta! This hearty and flavorful dish combines the bold tastes of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of slow cooking, making it the perfect solution for busy families or weekend brunches. With layers of savory sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy cheese, this casserole not only feeds a crowd but also tantalizes the taste buds. Ready to discover how to whip up this scrumptious breakfast delight? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the breakfast sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease from the cooked sausage and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker in the following order: first spread the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom, then add drained black beans and diced bell peppers.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is heated through.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center - it should come out clean with no liquid egg.
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Slice into portions and serve hot. Optional: garnish with fresh cilantro, salsa, or sour cream.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time in the morning, you can prep the ingredients the night before. Brown the sausage, chop the veggies, and whisk the egg mixture. Store everything separately in the fridge, and layer it in the slow cooker in the morning.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to personalize your casserole! Add in your favorite veggies like spinach or zucchini, or swap the breakfast sausage for chorizo for an extra kick.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors. Pepper jack cheese will add a spicy twist, while a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack offers a creamy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker. Always check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean with no liquid egg.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish with fresh toppings! Serve with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cilantro, or a side of salsa to enhance the southwestern flair.
- Perfect Portions: This casserole is great for meal prep! Slice it into portions and store leftovers in the fridge for a quick breakfast option throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 190mg
