Share this to:

Introduction

Starting your day with a hearty and nutritious breakfast is essential, and this Healthy & Easy Overnight Crockpot Breakfast Casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients, this dish cooks while you sleep, ensuring a delicious and stress-free morning meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for a busy week, this crockpot casserole is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Effortless Cooking – Prepare it the night before and wake up to a warm, ready-to-eat meal.
• Nutritious & Balanced – Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable – Adjust ingredients based on dietary preferences or what’s in your fridge.

The Origin of Breakfast Casseroles

Breakfast casseroles have been a staple in American households for decades, especially popular in Southern cuisine. Traditionally baked in the oven, the slow cooker variation gained popularity as a convenient way to cook overnight, making mornings easier and stress-free.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen hash browns
• 1 dozen large eggs
• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Protein & Veggies:

• 1 pound turkey sausage or lean breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)

Cheese:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese substitute)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Chop vegetables and set them aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Layer half of the frozen hash browns at the bottom.
3. Add half of the cooked sausage, peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
5. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Mix & Pour the Egg Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.

Step 4: Cook Overnight

1. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until eggs are fully set.
2. Once done, switch to “keep warm” mode until ready to serve.

Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Tips:

• Use Frozen Hash Browns – They hold up better than fresh potatoes, preventing mushiness.
• Grease the Crockpot Well – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – This helps the casserole set and enhances the flavor.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overcooking – Cooking too long can dry out the eggs.
• Not Whisking the Eggs Properly – Ensuring even mixing prevents uneven texture.
• Skipping the Layering Process – Proper layering ensures balanced flavors in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit – A refreshing contrast to the savory dish.
• Topped with Salsa or Avocado – Adds extra flavor and nutrients.
• Paired with Whole-Grain Toast – A wholesome, filling meal.
• Side of Greek Yogurt – A great protein boost to complete the breakfast.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Eggs – High in protein, vitamins, and essential amino acids.
• Spinach & Bell Peppers – Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A & C.
• Turkey Sausage – A leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage.
• Cheddar Cheese – Provides calcium for strong bones.
• Hash Browns (Potatoes) – A good source of carbohydrates and fiber.

Summary Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns
• 12 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 lb cooked turkey sausage
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup mushrooms (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika

Instructions:

1. Cook sausage and chop vegetables.
2. Grease crockpot and layer half of the hash browns, sausage, veggies, and cheese. Repeat layers.
3. Whisk eggs, milk, and seasonings, then pour over the layers.
4. Cook on low for 7-8 hours. Serve warm.

Interesting Facts About Breakfast Casseroles

• The first known breakfast casseroles date back to the early 1900s in American home cooking.
• This dish is a favorite for holiday mornings, especially Christmas and Easter brunches.
• Crockpot breakfast casseroles became popular as slow cookers gained mainstream popularity in the 1970s.

Wake up to a Healthy & Easy Overnight Crockpot Breakfast Casserole that is packed with flavor and nourishment – the perfect way to start your day!

Share this to: