Hearty Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole: A Perfect Anytime Meal
This Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a filling breakfast, yet light enough for dinner when you want something ready as soon as you walk through the door. With the option to add your favorite vegetables or spices, this recipe is a blank canvas for creating a dish that suits your taste. Whether served in the morning or evening, this casserole is sure to please.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound bulk sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound shredded potatoes
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Coat the inside of your slow cooker pot with cooking spray, brush with oil, or line it with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Sausage and Onions: In a medium skillet over high heat, cook the sausage until it’s no longer pink. Add the chopped onions and continue to cook until the onions are soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the sausage and onion mixture to a large bowl, then add the shredded potatoes. Mix well and spread the mixture evenly in the slow cooker pot. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and mayonnaise until smooth. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and potato mix in the slow cooker. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
5. Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for about 3 hours, or until the casserole is puffed and the cheese is slightly browned.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, allow the casserole to rest for 20 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Season with paprika, garlic powder, or black pepper for a flavor boost.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different twist.
Final Tips:
- Sautéing the sausage and onions before adding them to the slow cooker ensures a rich, deep flavor in the final dish.
- Using shredded potatoes creates a creamy texture, but you can substitute with diced potatoes for a heartier bite.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving allows it to set, making for clean slices and a more enjoyable eating experience.
Conclusion
This Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any time of day. The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with a deliciously cheesy and hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. Customize it with your favorite veggies and spices, and you’ll have a dish that’s as unique as it is tasty.