Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage and Hash Brown Casserole
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage and Hash Brown Casserole is the perfect comfort food, packed with savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey melted cheddar cheese. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this easy-to-make recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this dish is that it can be prepped in advance and cooked in your slow cooker, leaving you with more time to enjoy the day.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or half-and-half)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Sausage Mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are soft and the sausage is fully cooked. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
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Combine Hash Browns and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with the frozen shredded hash browns and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the sausage and hash brown mixture in the slow cooker.
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Cook in Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the eggs are set and the casserole is heated through.
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Add Final Cheese Layer: Once the casserole is done, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt before serving.
Variations:
- Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp cheddar blend for a more complex flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
- Meat-Free Version: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra veggies to make it vegetarian.
- Tater Tots Instead of Hash Browns: Switch the hash browns for frozen tater tots for a fun twist and a crispy texture.
- Crispy Top: For a crispy top, cook the casserole uncovered in the last 30 minutes of cooking on high.
Serving Tips:
- Perfect for Brunch: This casserole pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, a side salad, or some crispy bacon for a complete brunch spread.
- Add Condiments: Top with salsa, hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
20 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and cook it the next day. Just refrigerate it overnight and cook as instructed.
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Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen? Yes, fresh hash browns will work, but frozen hash browns hold up better in the slow cooker.
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Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
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Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook this casserole on high for 2-3 hours, but make sure to check that the eggs are fully set.
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Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
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Can I add other types of meat? Yes, you can add bacon, ham, or ground beef if you prefer a different meat.
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Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure the sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free.
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Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
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Can I make this casserole dairy-free? Yes, substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
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Can I cook this in the oven? Yes, you can bake this casserole at 350°F for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the eggs are set.
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How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set and there’s no liquid pooling in the center.
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Can I make this casserole spicier? Yes, add chili flakes, spicy sausage, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
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How do I prevent the top from overcooking? If you’re concerned about the top getting too crispy, you can cover the casserole halfway through cooking.
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Can I use half-and-half instead of milk? Yes, half-and-half will give the casserole a richer, creamier texture.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Can I add potatoes other than hash browns? You can use cooked diced potatoes instead of hash browns for a chunkier texture.
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Can I make this casserole without eggs? You could substitute the eggs with a tofu scramble mixture or another egg replacement, though the texture may vary.
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Is this casserole suitable for meal prep? Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just make individual portions and refrigerate for easy reheating.
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Can I use a smaller slow cooker? You can use a smaller slow cooker, but you may need to adjust the ingredient amounts and cooking time.
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Can I add a topping like breadcrumbs? Yes, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking can add a crispy texture.
20 Best Tips for Making This Casserole Perfect:
- Use frozen hash browns for the best texture; they absorb flavors well without getting too mushy.
- Cook the sausage first to avoid extra grease in your casserole.
- Don’t skip the cheese! It’s the key to making this dish extra creamy and flavorful.
- Whisk the eggs well for a smooth and creamy texture in the casserole.
- For extra flavor, use a seasoned sausage or add garlic and herbs to the sausage mixture.
- For more flavor depth, use a mixture of cheeses, like cheddar and pepper jack.
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, as it will affect the even cooking of the casserole.
- If using a smaller slow cooker, halve the recipe or cook in batches.
- Season with fresh herbs like parsley or chives after cooking for a fresh pop of flavor.
- Add spinach or other greens to sneak in extra nutrition.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking so the casserole sets and is easier to serve.
- Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.
- Avoid overcooking the casserole as it can become too dry.
- Add sour cream or yogurt to the casserole for added tanginess.
- If you like it crunchy, use tater tots instead of hash browns for a different texture.
- Top with avocado slices or salsa for a fresh touch.
- For a milder version, use sweet Italian sausage and omit the bell peppers.
- Serve with a side of hot sauce for those who like more heat.
- Freeze individual portions for easy breakfast or dinner on-the-go.
- Customize with your favorite veggies to add more color and flavor.
