If you are craving a warm and comforting morning meal that practically makes itself, the Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This dish brings together hearty smoked sausage, creamy mushroom soup, tender hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese into one glorious, effortless casserole. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping a crowd-pleaser for brunch, this recipe delivers unbeatable flavor with minimal hands-on time, making your mornings stress-free and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a key role in building the rich, creamy texture and the savory depth of the dish, while also adding color and irresistible aroma to your kitchen.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds a luscious, creamy base that holds everything together beautifully.
- Milk: Keeps the casserole moist and silky without weighing it down.
- Frozen hash browns (defrosted): Brings a tender, slightly crispy texture that’s perfect for breakfast.
- Smoked sausage (diced): Offers a smoky, savory punch that makes every bite flavorful and hearty.
- Small yellow onion (diced): Provides a gentle sweetness and crunch to balance the richness.
- Grated cheddar cheese: Melts throughout and on top, creating that irresistible cheesy crust.
- Thyme: Adds a subtle herbal lift to the overall flavor.
- Parsley: Gives a fresh, green brightness to finish the casserole.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
Start by gently heating the condensed cream of mushroom soup together with the milk in a saucepan. Simmering this mixture for a few minutes helps to combine the flavors smoothly and creates a rich, creamy base that will soak into the hash browns and sausage, making every bite moist and comforting.
Step 2: Layer the Main Ingredients
Next, in your slow cooker, carefully layer the defrosted hash browns, diced smoked sausage, and chopped yellow onion. Sprinkle about one cup of the grated cheddar cheese over this mix to begin building that luscious cheesy texture that will melt into the casserole as it cooks.
Step 3: Combine with Mushroom Mixture
Pour the warm cream of mushroom and milk mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to make sure everything is well coated. This step is key for distributing that creamy flavor throughout the dish, ensuring it all cooks into a delightful, cohesive casserole.
Step 4: Add Final Toppings and Cook
Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese on top along with fresh thyme and parsley. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for about three hours, or until the potatoes are tender. You’ll know it’s done when the top is bubbly, golden, and perfectly cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy the comfort and joy this Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe brings to your table.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of freshly ground black pepper. A few thinly sliced green onions over the top add a pop of color and a mild onion crunch that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a star on its own but pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like a simple mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette or some sliced ripe tomatoes. Fresh fruit salad is also a refreshing contrast to the savory, cheesy casserole, balancing the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch idea, serve the Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe in individual portions warmed in ramekins. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa for added flair. This makes it perfect for entertaining guests or family mornings when everyone can customize their plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers from this breakfast delight, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making the next day’s breakfast just as satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this casserole by wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or by storing them in freezer-safe containers. It stays fresh for up to two months in the freezer, which makes it an excellent make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings down the line.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. When using the oven, cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to preserve the tender texture and cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage instead of smoked sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives a nice flavor and texture, you can substitute with breakfast sausage links, chorizo, or even turkey sausage depending on your preference. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just turn on the slow cooker and follow the cooking time as usual. This makes breakfast preparation incredibly convenient.
Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make delicious additions that add nutrition and color. Just keep in mind that some veggies release water as they cook, so you might want to adjust cooking time or drain excess moisture if needed.
Do I need to grease the slow cooker before assembling?
It’s a good idea to lightly grease the slow cooker insert to prevent sticking and make serving easier. You can use a small amount of butter or nonstick spray for this step.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, fresh potatoes that are peeled and grated work well. However, you may need to adjust cooking times slightly and ensure the potato pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is such a cozy, no-fuss way to start your day on a delicious note. Its layers of creamy, cheesy, and smoky goodness will quickly become a cherished staple in your breakfast rotation. So go ahead, give it a try this weekend and watch your family or guests smile with every mouthwatering bite!
Print
Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Crockpot Sausage Breakfast Casserole combines tender hash browns, savory smoked sausage, and creamy mushroom soup into a delicious, easy-to-make overnight or weekend breakfast. Perfectly seasoned with thyme and parsley, and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this slow cooker recipe simplifies morning prep while delivering comfort and flavor that serves six people.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 (10.5 ounces) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 32 ounces hash browns (1 frozen bag, defrosted)
- 14 ounces smoked sausage, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Simmer gently over low to medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until well blended and warmed through. This will be the creamy base for the casserole.
- Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the defrosted hash browns in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced smoked sausage and diced yellow onion evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle 1 cup of the grated cheddar cheese on top of these layers for a melty, flavorful middle layer.
- Add Cream Mixture: Pour the warmed mushroom soup and milk mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine and ensure ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps the flavors meld during cooking.
- Top with Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the top along with the thyme and parsley. Cover the slow cooker with its lid to keep moisture and heat in during cooking.
- Cook Until Tender: Set the slow cooker to high and cook for about 3 hours, or until the potatoes are soft and the casserole is heated through. This slow cooking creates a creamy, tender texture. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting breakfast casserole.
Notes
- For best results, defrost hash browns before layering to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Adding bell peppers or mushrooms can add additional flavor and vegetable content.
- To make this casserole vegetarian, replace sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and ensure soup base is vegetarian.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
