Some nights call for a cozy, low-effort meal that still feels hearty enough to gather everyone around the table. This kind of crockpot supper is especially handy on busy weekdays, because it uses simple grocery-store staples and lets the slow cooker do the work while you take care of the rest of the day. It has all the comfort of a diner-style breakfast bake, but with the convenience of a hands-off family meal.
This casserole is especially good with fresh fruit, buttered toast, biscuits, or a simple green salad if you want to balance the richness. For a supper feel, I also like serving it with sliced tomatoes, a little hot sauce on the side, and maybe even applesauce for kids who like a sweet bite with savory meals.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns
12 large eggs
1 lb bulk pork breakfast sausage, browned and drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
Directions
1. Brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain well and set aside.
2. Lightly grease the slow cooker insert if desired, then spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom.
3. Sprinkle the browned sausage evenly over the hash browns, then add the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the eggs are set in the center and the edges are lightly golden.
6. Turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters: Keep the seasoning simple and use mild cheddar for a softer flavor that tends to go over well with kids. You can also serve each slice with ketchup or extra cheese at the table so everyone can dress up their own portion.
Prevent overcooking: Slow cookers can vary quite a bit, so check the casserole on the early end of the cooking time the first time you make it. The center should look set and no longer wet, but you do not want the eggs to cook so long that they become rubbery.
Make serving easier: A light coating of cooking spray in the insert helps with cleanup and makes it easier to lift out neat portions. Letting the casserole rest before slicing also helps it hold together much better.
Cheese swap: Colby jack or a cheddar-monterey jack blend works nicely if that is what you have on hand. It will still give you that melty, family-friendly finish.
Add-ins if you want more color: If your family likes a little extra tucked in, a small handful of diced bell pepper or sliced green onion can be added with the sausage. Just keep in mind that doing so takes the recipe beyond the five-ingredient version.