Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast

Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast is a layered casserole that lets you wake to an all-in-one meal brimming with crispy hash browns, smoky ham or bacon, caramelized onion, and rich cheddar cheese. The best part is that everything cooks overnight in your slow cooker, meaning your morning is easier and your kitchen smells fantastic. Whether you are feeding a hungry crowd or just want something comforting that takes the work out of breakfast, this make-ahead classic has you covered.

When I first made this for a big holiday morning, everyone went back for seconds and asked for the recipe. Now it is our go-to for sleepovers and family reunions, and there are never any leftovers.

Ingredients

• Frozen hash browns: Choose a crispy style for best texture and double check there is no excess ice
• Precooked ham or bacon: Use thick cut for more flavor and a hearty bite
• Onion: Fresh chopped onion brings out savory depth and sweetness as it cooks fully
• Green pepper: Adds color and a gentle crunch if you like a bit of vegetable brightness
• Grated medium cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly and gives the casserole a rich creamy layer Opt for block cheese you grate yourself for better melt
• Eggs: Act as the binder that holds everything together plus add protein
• Whole milk: Adds moisture and gives the eggs a delicate custard finish
• Salt and pepper: Essential for amplifying all the other ingredients Go light if your ham or bacon is salty

Step-by-Step Instructions

Grease the Slow Cooker:

Spray or coat the inside of your four quart slow cooker well to keep sticking at bay and allow easy serving

Make the First Layer:

Spread about one third of your frozen hash browns evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker You do not need to thaw them

Build With Meat and Veggies:

Scatter on one third each of the chopped ham or bacon the onion and the optional green pepper Sprinkle salt and pepper sparingly

Add Cheese:

Top with one third of your grated cheddar cheese so every layer gets melty goodness

Repeat the Layers:

Add two more rounds of hash browns meat vegetables and cheese continuing to season lightly between each

Mix the Eggs and Milk:

Crack a dozen eggs into a bowl Add the milk and whisk until very smooth for a creamy finish

Pour In the Egg Mixture:

Slowly and evenly pour the egg and milk mixture right over everything in the slow cooker letting it seep down into all the layers

Cover and Cook:

Put the lid on Set to low Cook for six to eight hours until the eggs are fully set and the casserole is puffed and golden at the edges

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I am always amazed at how rich and creamy the eggs turn out after hours of slow gentle cooking My kids especially love picking out their favorite part whether that is the crispy edges or the gooey cheesy middle

Storage Tips

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage slice and freeze individual pieces then reheat in the microwave or oven for a fast hot breakfast

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping ham out for browned breakfast sausage or chopped turkey bacon For a vegetarian twist load up with mushrooms and spinach If you are out of milk use half and half or non dairy milk since the texture will stay rich

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Serving Suggestions

Spoon into bowls and top with a little sour cream fresh herbs or a spoonful of salsa Serve with hot buttered toast and a mug of coffee to round out the meal For gatherings make it part of a brunch spread with fruit and baked goods

Cultural Context

Layered breakfast casseroles like this one show up in home kitchens all across the country especially in the Midwest and Mountain West Cooking overnight in a slow cooker keeps things hands off and feels a bit like a modern take on campfire breakfasts

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute sausage for ham or bacon?

Yes, cooked sausage works well as a substitute, offering a different but delicious flavor.

→ How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?

Ensure the hash browns are thawed and drained, and avoid excess liquid to maintain a firm texture.

→ Can vegetables be added to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced green peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be layered for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ What size slow cooker is best?

A 4-quart slow cooker is ideal for even cooking and layering all the ingredients.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

→ Can this dish be made vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables or use a meatless alternative for a vegetarian version.