Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines classic breakfast ingredients in one easy-to-make, slow-cooked meal. Packed with layers of hash browns, eggs, cheese, and savory meats, this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a lazy weekend morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set It and Forget It: The crock pot does all the work, leaving you free to relax.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Loaded with protein, carbs, and cheese for a filling meal.
- Great for Crowds: Perfect for feeding a group or serving at potlucks and gatherings.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- No-Fuss Prep: Simple layering technique makes it easy to assemble.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
- Eggs
- Milk
- Breakfast sausage, bacon, or ham (cooked and crumbled)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional toppings: green onions, salsa, or hot sauce
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cook and crumble the sausage or bacon. Shred cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Grease the Crock Pot: Lightly grease the crock pot with cooking spray or butter.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread a layer of hash browns on the bottom.
- Add a layer of cooked sausage or bacon.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese.
- Mix the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with optional toppings like green onions, salsa, or hot sauce before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spicy: Use spicy sausage or add diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Options: Try pepper jack, Swiss, or mozzarella for different flavors.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace hash browns with cauliflower rice.
- Southwest Twist: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Store individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, shred or dice fresh potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before using.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the crock pot the night before and start cooking in the morning.
How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?
Cook on low heat and avoid overcooking. The casserole is ready when the eggs are set but still moist.
Can I use plant-based sausage?
Yes, plant-based sausage works perfectly as a substitute for meat.
Can I add vegetables to the layers?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are excellent additions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided the hash browns and sausage are certified gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger crock pot and extend the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks through.
Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?
Yes, substitute whole eggs with egg whites or an egg substitute for a lighter version.
How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is ready when the eggs are set, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
What toppings pair well with this dish?
Try salsa, sour cream, avocado, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Conclusion
Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast is the ultimate no-fuss meal for a satisfying start to your day. Perfectly layered with hash browns, eggs, cheese, and savory meats, this hearty dish is ideal for family breakfasts, holiday mornings, or meal prepping. With its versatility and ease, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again!
PrintMountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast
Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast is a hearty and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Layers of hash browns, eggs, sausage, and cheese come together in your slow cooker to create a delicious breakfast or brunch option that requires minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Slow Cooker
- Method: Crock Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 bag (32 oz or 900 g) frozen hash browns
- 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced onion
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced bell peppers (optional)
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned. Add the diced onions and bell peppers (if using) and sauté until softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
- Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker. Spread half of the hash browns on the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked sausage mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the eggs are fully set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Serve:
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional cheese, green onions, or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For added spice, use hot breakfast sausage or add diced jalapeños to the layers.
- Substitute sausage with cooked bacon or a plant-based meat alternative for variety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.