There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a hearty breakfast wafting through the house, isn’t there? That’s why I absolutely adore making my mountain man crock pot breakfast. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for lazy weekends or when I have a house full of hungry friends and family. Just toss everything into the crock pot, and let it do its thing while you enjoy that extra cup of coffee! I remember the first time I made this dish; I was hosting a brunch, and everyone couldn’t believe I made such a filling meal with so little effort. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on the ease and deliciousness of this breakfast casserole. It’s like a warm hug in the morning, and who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up the most satisfying mountain man crock pot breakfast ever! Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking:
- 1 pound sausage (I like to use breakfast sausage for that extra flavor!)
- 1 pound bacon (because bacon makes everything better, right?)
- 1 onion, diced (this adds a lovely sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (I usually go for green, but any color works!)
- 12 eggs (the heart of this dish—so rich and filling)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up!)
- 1 cup milk (for that creamy texture)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (freshly ground, if you can—yum!)
- 1 package frozen hash browns (easy and convenient, plus they add great texture)
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious mountain man crock pot breakfast! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you in no time:
- First, grab a large skillet and cook the sausage and bacon over medium heat until they’re nice and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain the excess grease and set them aside to cool a bit.
- In that same skillet, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step really enhances the flavors!
- While those veggies are cooking, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until everything is well blended. Trust me, this is where the magic begins!
- Now, it’s time to combine! Add the cooked sausage, bacon, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheese, and hash browns to the egg mixture. Stir it all together until it’s nicely mixed.
- Lightly grease your crock pot (this makes for easier cleanup!) and pour the delicious mixture in, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the egg is set and everything looks golden and inviting.
- Once it’s done, serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite of this breakfast casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, this mountain man crock pot breakfast is a total game-changer! Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Easy to prepare: Just toss everything into the crock pot and let it work its magic while you sit back and relax!
- Perfect for feeding a crowd: Whether it’s a brunch with friends or a family gathering, this dish serves up to 8 hearty portions, so everyone leaves happy and full.
- Great for meal prepping: Make it ahead of time, and you’ve got breakfast sorted all week long. Just reheat, and you’re good to go!
- Delicious and hearty: With savory sausage, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, this breakfast casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s a warm hug on a plate!
Nutritional Information Section
So, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this mountain man crock pot breakfast! Here are some estimated values per serving (about 1 slice) that you might find interesting:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
Keep in mind that these are just estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. If you swap out any items or add extras, it’ll change things a bit. But hey, you’re in charge of your delicious breakfast adventure!
Tips for Success
To make your mountain man crock pot breakfast truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks! Trust me, these little hacks can elevate your dish from great to absolutely amazing:
- Ingredient substitutions: Don’t have bacon? No problem! You can swap it out for diced ham or even turkey bacon for a leaner option. Want a veggie twist? Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition!
- Cooking time adjustments: If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours is a lifesaver, but if you can let it go low and slow for 6-8 hours, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the texture will be even better!
- Cheese varieties: Experiment with different cheeses! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella gives a lovely stretchiness. Mix and match to find your perfect combo!
- Seasoning boost: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Throw in some garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for a little heat. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can brighten up the dish too!
- Check the texture: The egg mixture should be set but still moist. If it seems too dry, you might have cooked it a bit too long. Just keep an eye on it during the last hour of cooking!
- Let it rest: After cooking, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps everything firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mountain man crock pot breakfast that’s not only delicious but also tailored to your taste! Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!
Variations
If you’re anything like me, you love to mix things up in the kitchen! The beauty of the mountain man crock pot breakfast is its versatility. Here are some fun variations to help you personalize this dish and take the flavor to new heights:
- Herbs and spices: Fresh herbs can really elevate the taste! Try adding chopped fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness. For a bit of warmth, sprinkle in some smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper—trust me, it adds a delightful kick!
- Veggie overload: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some chopped spinach, diced zucchini, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes. They’ll add color and flavor while making your breakfast even heartier.
- Cheese changes: Feeling adventurous? Swap out the cheddar for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. You could even add a mix of cheeses for a melty, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible!
- Meat swaps: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try swapping the sausage and bacon for turkey sausage or chicken sausage. They’re just as satisfying but with a bit less grease.
- Hash brown alternatives: Instead of frozen hash browns, you can use diced sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor and a touch of sweetness. Just give them a little extra time to cook through!
- Breakfast burrito style: Want to make it a bit more fun? Add some taco seasoning and serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream for a breakfast burrito vibe!
These variations not only enhance the flavor of your mountain man crock pot breakfast but also allow you to get creative with ingredients you love. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers from your mountain man crock pot breakfast! You definitely don’t want to waste any of this goodness. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:
- Storage: Once the breakfast casserole has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. I like to use glass containers because they’re perfect for reheating, but plastic works too! Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep the moisture in.
- Duration: You can keep your leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the flavors might start to fade, and we want to avoid any sad breakfasts!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the casserole! Just cut it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2 months—perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick meal!
Now, when it comes to reheating, here’s what I recommend:
- In the microwave: To reheat a single portion, pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. You want it nice and warm throughout, so feel free to add a splash of milk if it seems a little dry!
- In the oven: For larger portions, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
- On the stovetop: If you prefer, you can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a tiny splash of milk or water, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy every delicious bite of your mountain man crock pot breakfast even after the first day. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Got some questions about the mountain man crock pot breakfast? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers:
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of sausage or bacon, you can easily swap them out for diced ham, turkey sausage, or even some crumbled chorizo for a little spice! Just keep in mind that different meats might alter the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How can I make it vegetarian?
Great question! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add in your favorite veggies instead. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or even some spinach can work wonders here. Just make sure to sauté them to enhance their flavors before mixing them into the egg mixture!
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating leftovers is super simple! For a quick fix, pop a portion in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. If you prefer the oven, cover it with foil and heat it at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of milk for extra moisture. Just keep stirring until it’s nice and hot!
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! This dish is very forgiving when it comes to veggies. Feel free to toss in any of your favorites—like spinach, diced tomatoes, or even some shredded carrots. Just remember to sauté them first to bring out their flavors!
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
The mountain man crock pot breakfast is done when the eggs are set in the middle and no longer jiggly. If you give it a gentle shake, it should feel firm but still moist. If it looks a bit dry, you might’ve cooked it a tad too long—keep an eye on it during the last hour!
Hopefully, these FAQs help clear things up! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Print
Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty breakfast dish cooked in a crock pot, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 1 pound bacon
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 package frozen hash browns
Instructions
- Cook the sausage and bacon in a skillet until browned. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and bell pepper in the same skillet until soft.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked sausage, bacon, sautéed vegetables, cheese, and hash browns to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until set.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables or spices as desired.
- This dish is great for meal prepping.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: mountain man crock pot breakfast, breakfast casserole, slow cooker breakfast