Wake up to the mouthwatering aroma of a hearty Breakfast Sausage Casserole, effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker! Imagine a dish that combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, all nestled on a bed of golden cubed bread. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy brunch with friends, this recipe is your ticket to a stress-free start. With just 20 minutes of prep and a slow cook time that allows you to relax, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this deliciously simple meal. Ready to transform your breakfast routine? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of breakfast sausage, 8 large eggs, 2 cups of shredded cheese, 4 cups of cubed bread, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs and whisk them until well combined. Add the 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the eggs. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- In a greased slow cooker, layer the 4 cups of cubed bread evenly across the bottom. This will serve as the base for your casserole.
- Once the sausage is cooked and drained, sprinkle it evenly over the cubed bread in the slow cooker.
- Next, pour the egg and milk mixture over the sausage and bread layers, ensuring that everything is well-coated.
- Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for approximately 6 hours, or until the eggs are fully set and the casserole is firm to the touch.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the lid and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help it firm up a bit more.
- To serve, cut the casserole into squares and enjoy it warm. This dish pairs well with fresh fruit or a side of crispy bacon.
Tips
- Sauté for Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the sausage while cooking. This will enhance the overall taste of your casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a delightful twist to your dish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just plug it in and let it cook while you enjoy your coffee.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Check for doneness at the 5-hour mark to ensure the eggs are fully set.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with fresh fruit or a side of crispy bacon for a complete breakfast experience. A drizzle of hot sauce can also add a nice kick for those who enjoy a little heat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 250mg
