The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year—a time for joy, family, and, of course, food. When you think about Christmas breakfast, the first thing that comes to mind might be pancakes, waffles, or cinnamon rolls. But have you considered a dish that’s bursting with flavor, is easy to prepare, and can feed a crowd with minimal fuss? Enter the Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole, the perfect dish for your holiday brunch or morning get-together.
Why We Love This Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this breakfast casserole. First and foremost is the sheer ease of preparation. With mixed ingredients layered beautifully in the crockpot, you can toss everything in the night before or in the early morning and let it cook slowly. The result? A deliciously satisfying breakfast that’s warm and ready to serve when you are.
Another reason to adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients—there’s no limit to what you can add or swap based on your family’s tastes or dietary preferences. It’s also perfect for holiday gatherings, where it can extend beyond breakfast to brunch or even as a hearty side dish for lunch or dinner.
Finally, there’s the comfort factor. The combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese creates a dish that envelops you in warm, inviting flavors—a perfect way to kick off any holiday celebration.
Ingredients for Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe
To create a magical Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 pounds hash brown potatoes
- 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (cooked)
- ½ cup onions (diced)
- ½ cup bell peppers (red & green, diced)
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded from a block)
- 1 ½ cups pepper jack cheese (shredded from a block)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (if using regular table salt, use half as much)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
This straightforward list contains everything you need to whip up this delightful breakfast casserole. Whether you’re preparing it for a large family gathering or a small holiday brunch, these ingredients are sure to deliver a hearty meal that leaves everyone satisfied.
How to Make Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Making this Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a simple process that can be broken down into a few easy steps. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare Your Crockpot: Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with no-stick cooking spray. This will ensure easy cleanup later on and prevent any sticking.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. This blend adds a wonderful creaminess to the casserole and a little kick from the pepper jack. Set this mixture aside for layering later.
- Sauté the Vegetables: If you prefer, you can sauté the diced onions and bell peppers for a few minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. However, you can also add them raw to the casserole for added texture and flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In another bowl, mix your cooked sausage, sautéed onions, and bell peppers. This combination will add depth and flavor to the casserole.
- Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, crack all 12 eggs and beat them until well blended. Then, whisk in the milk, kosher salt, and black pepper. This liquid mixture will tie everything together.
- Layer the Ingredients: Start the layering in your crockpot. Place one-third of the hash brown potatoes in the bottom of the pot. Follow this with one-third of the sausage and vegetable mixture, and then top with one cup of the cheese blend. Repeat this process two more times, creating a total of three layers. Make sure to finish with the cheese mixture on top.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour your egg mixture over the entire casserole, ensuring that it seeps down through each layer to bind the dish together.
- Cook: Cover your crockpot and set it to low. Allow the casserole to cook for about eight hours. This slow cooking will let the flavors meld beautifully while yielding fluffy eggs and tender potatoes.
When you finally uncover the crockpot, you’ll be met with layers of deliciousness that are just begging to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Once your Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole is ready, it’s time to dig in! Serving it is incredibly simple. Use a large spoon or spatula to cut into the casserole, revealing those beautiful layers of eggs, potatoes, sausage, and melty cheese.
You can serve it as is, or with a variety of accompaniments to enhance your breakfast experience. Consider a side of fruit salad for a refreshing balance to the rich casserole. You could also offer some warm biscuits or sweet rolls for a touch of sweet indulgence.
Don’t forget the coffee or hot cocoa! A warm beverage can elevate your Christmas breakfast, allowing everyone to sip and savor during the holiday festivities.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
To ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Prep the Night Before: If you want to save time on Christmas morning, you can prepare all your ingredients the night before. Simply layer everything in the crockpot, cover it, and put it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just move it to the base and turn it on.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and real cheese (shredded from a block). They offer better flavor and textures compared to pre-shredded cheese or frozen veggies.
- Get Creative with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite herbs and spices. You could add chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, or even spices like paprika for an extra kick.
- Avoid Overcrowding: While your crockpot can accommodate a lot, avoid stuffing it too full. You want to ensure even cooking throughout all the layers.
- Check for Doneness: Depending on your crockpot’s settings and the size of your casserole, cooking times can vary. Use a knife to test the center; it should come out clean when ready.
How to Store Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), proper storage will keep your casserole tasting great. First, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer any unused portions to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of milk or a little cheese on top before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Variations of Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
The beauty of the Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try based on your preferences:
- Veggie-Packed Casserole: For a healthier twist, substitute some of the sausage for an array of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use egg whites for a lighter version.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, try adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to your sausage and veggie mixture. This will bring a delightful zing to the casserole.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with various types of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or feta. Each will impart a different flavor profile that can really change the dynamic of your dish.
- Crusty Breakfast Casserole: For a fun twist, include some pre-made croissants or bagels cut into chunks as part of your layering. They will soak up the egg mixture and add a delightful texture.
With these variations, you can tailor the casserole to match your family’s tastes or dietary needs.
FAQs about Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Can I make Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and let it cook in the morning. This makes it perfect for Christmas brunch while you enjoy spending time with your loved ones.
How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?
The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully set, and the center is firm. Use a knife or toothpick to test; if it comes out clean, your casserole is done!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers. Ensure they are thoroughly cooled, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Crockpot Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 large eggs Large eggs work best for fluffiness.
- 1 cup milk Combine with eggs for richness.
- 2 pounds hash brown potatoes Fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen.
- 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (cooked) Ground sausage, cooked before adding.
- 0.5 cup onions (diced) Can be sautéed for added flavor.
- 0.5 cup bell peppers (diced) Use a mix of red and green.
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded) Shred from a block for better texture.
- 1.5 cups pepper jack cheese (shredded) Optional for a spicy kick.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt If using regular table salt, use half as much.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with no-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, set aside.
- Optionally, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers for a few minutes until softened.
- Mix the cooked sausage, onions, and bell peppers in another bowl.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and whisk in the milk, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Layering
- Layer one-third of the hash brown potatoes, followed by one-third of the sausage-veggie mixture, and one cup of the cheese blend.
- Repeat the process two more times, finishing with the cheese blend on top.
Cooking
- Pour the egg mixture over the casserole to soak through the layers.
- Cover and cook on low for about eight hours.
Serving
- Cut into the casserole and serve with side accompaniments like fruit salad or biscuits.
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