There’s something magical about waking up to the comforting aroma of a hearty breakfast already cooking in the kitchen. That’s exactly what you get with this Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast — an easy, satisfying dish that practically makes itself while you sleep. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a holiday morning, or just want something special without the fuss, this slow cooker breakfast casserole is here to make your mornings better.
Why You’ll Love This Mountain Man Breakfast Casserole
This dish is a total breakfast hero. It’s packed with layers of fluffy eggs, crispy hash browns, melted cheese, and savory sausage — all cooked together in one pot. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. Swap ingredients, adjust the spice, or sneak in extra veggies — the options are wide open. And best of all? You barely have to lift a finger in the morning. Just set it up the night before and wake up to a warm, ready-to-serve meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
- Breakfast sausage (or plant-based sausage), cooked and crumbled
- Diced onions
- Optional bell peppers for extra color and flavor
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
You’ll also want to have some green onions or fresh parsley on hand for garnish — they add a fresh touch that balances the richness beautifully.
How to Make Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast
You’ll love how easy this is! With just a little prep and a few layers, your slow cooker takes care of the rest.
1. Cook the Sausage and Veggies
Start by browning your sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, toss in the diced onions and bell peppers (if using). Let them cook for a few more minutes until softened and fragrant. Drain any excess grease, and you’re ready to build your layers.
2. Layer the Ingredients
Grease the inside of your crock pot with a little butter or nonstick spray — this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Spread half of the frozen hash browns on the bottom. Next, add half of your cooked sausage mixture, followed by a generous handful of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers one more time: hash browns, sausage, and more cheese.
3. Whisk the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture gets poured evenly over your layers. The eggs will soak into the hash browns and cheese, creating a rich and satisfying casserole.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crock pot on LOW and cook for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, HIGH for 3 to 4 hours works too. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the edges are slightly golden. The cheese will be gooey, bubbly, and irresistible.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once done, turn off the crock pot and let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to serve. Top with sliced green onions, a dollop of salsa, or your favorite hot sauce — then dig in!
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients When Possible: If you have the time, fresh diced potatoes can be used instead of frozen hash browns. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture first to avoid sogginess.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your casserole after the 6-hour mark if cooking on low. Overcooked eggs can become rubbery.
- Try a Cheese Blend: Mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack adds a creamy texture and a nice balance of sharp and mellow flavor.
- Grease Your Crock Pot Well: This prevents sticking and ensures a clean, easy scoop every time.
- Make It Ahead: Prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crock pot in the morning and let it cook while you get ready.
Variations You’ll Love
This breakfast casserole is super flexible! Here are some easy ways to switch things up:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead. A sprinkle of feta adds a nice salty bite.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy breakfast sausage or stir some chopped jalapeños into the egg mixture.
- Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, a pinch of taco seasoning, and top with avocado slices or pico de gallo.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the hash browns with cauliflower rice. It still gives a similar texture but with fewer carbs.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack for heat, Swiss for a nuttier flavor, or even gouda for a smoky twist.
Storage Instructions
One of the best parts about this recipe is how well it stores. Perfect for meal prep!
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
- Freezer: Portion the casserole into individual servings and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is filling on its own, but you can dress it up or stretch it out with a few sides:
- Serve with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced morning meal.
- Add a side of toast or English muffins for extra carbs.
- Top with sour cream, avocado, or chopped herbs for added freshness.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to round out your breakfast spread.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! Just shred or dice them and be sure to squeeze out excess water before layering.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes! You can assemble all the ingredients in your crock pot and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just set it to cook.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes — as long as your hash browns and sausage are certified gluten-free, you’re good to go.
Can I double the recipe?
Sure! Just use a larger slow cooker and increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, or warm larger portions in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I use egg whites or an egg substitute?
Definitely. Replace the eggs with egg whites or a carton of egg substitute if you prefer a lighter version.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! This is a great way to use up what you have. Try chopped kale, broccoli, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The casserole is ready when the eggs are set, the cheese is melted, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Final Thoughts
This Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast is everything you want in a breakfast recipe — easy, filling, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a weekend brunch, feeding overnight guests, or simply want a low-effort morning meal, this dish delivers every time. It’s comforting, customizable, and totally delicious.
Try it once, and you’ll understand why this slow cooker breakfast is a keeper. Happy cooking!
Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast
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 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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 over the hash browns, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining hash browns, sausage mixture, and cheese.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
- 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.
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with additional cheese, green onions, or fresh parsley before serving.
