Slow Cooker Southwestern Breakfast Casserole

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Rise and shine to a symphony of flavors of the Slow Cooker Southwestern Breakfast Casserole recipe. We will guide you through the art of crafting this savory masterpiece. This breakfast delight effortlessly combines the warmth of a slow-cooked ensemble with the bold, zesty essence of Southwestern cuisine. 

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a breakfast enthusiast, our step-by-step guide promises a delightful morning experience. Unleash the aromatic magic of slow-cooked goodness, infusing your kitchen with the enticing allure of Southwestern spices. 

Your mornings will never be the same!

How long is cooked breakfast casserole good for?

A cooked breakfast casserole is typically good for about 3 to 4 days when stored in the refrigerator. To maintain its freshness and flavor, it’s crucial to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating. Beyond this timeframe, there’s a risk of the ingredients breaking down and the dish losing its optimal taste and texture. 

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, make sure to thoroughly heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety and preserve its delicious qualities.

You might enjoy these recipes:

• Can You Freeze Casserole? A Comprehensive Guide
• Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese Casserole

Why is my breakfast casserole soggy?

A soggy breakfast casserole can result from excess moisture in ingredients like vegetables or inadequate pre-cooking steps. Ensure ingredients like mushrooms, tomatoes, or zucchini are properly sautéed to eliminate excess water. Additionally, draining ingredients like spinach or cooked meats helps prevent sogginess. Using stale bread or too much liquid in the egg mixture can also contribute to a mushy texture. 

To remedy this, allow bread cubes to stale or dry slightly before use, and ensure the egg mixture is well-balanced. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the casserole with ingredients to allow for proper air circulation during baking.

Should you cover a breakfast casserole when baking?

It’s generally recommended to cover a breakfast casserole when baking, especially during the initial part of the baking process. Covering the casserole with aluminum foil helps trap steam and moisture, preventing the top from overcooking or becoming too dry. It also promotes even cooking of ingredients. 

However, for the last portion of baking, you might want to uncover the casserole to allow the top to brown and develop a desirable texture. This technique ensures a well-cooked and balanced breakfast casserole with a moist interior and a nicely browned top. Always follow the specific instructions in your recipe for the best results.

What are the ingredients to make Slow Cooker Southwestern Breakfast Casserole?

You can prepare this recipe in 10 minutes and another 10 minutes to brown the sausage. The cook time is 4 to 6 hours on low, but this time may vary depending on the model of the slow cooker used.

For 6 to 8 servings, here are the ingredients you’re going to need:

• Non-stick cooking spray (or melted butter or coconut oil): Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the casserole from the slow cooker.
• Mild bulk sausage (no casings): Adds savory flavor and a hearty texture to the casserole.
• Hash browns: Provide a base and contribute a comforting, starchy element.
• Ground cumin: Infuses the dish with warm, earthy flavors, characteristic of Southwestern cuisine.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile and adds depth to the overall taste.
• Red pepper: Adds sweetness and color, balancing the savory and spicy elements.
• Eggs: Bind the casserole together, creating a cohesive and satisfying texture.
• Water: Contributes moisture to the eggs, preventing them from becoming overly dry during the slow cooking process.
• Chipotle powder: Introduces smoky heat, imparting a distinctive Southwestern kick.
• Sea salt and black pepper: Season the casserole, enhancing the overall taste.
• Cheddar cheese: Offers richness and a sharp flavor.
• Monterey Jack (or other mild white) cheese: Adds creaminess and complements the cheddar with a milder taste.
• Chopped green onions, red pepper, fresh cilantro, and/or additional shredded cheese: Serve as toppings, providing freshness, color, and extra layers of flavor, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.

How to make Slow Cooker Southwestern Breakfast Casserole?

It’s time to put this recipe together now that you’ve gathered all of your ingredients.

1. First, spray a 6-quart or larger slow cooker crock with non-stick cooking spray, or you can grease it with melted butter or coconut oil.
   
2. Then, cook the sausage in a large skillet until it’s nicely browned for approximately 8 to 10 minutes. When it’s done, remove from the heat and carefully drain the excess grease from the skillet, then set it aside.
   
3. Spread the hash browns in an even layer across the bottom of the slow cooker crock. Next, add the browned sausage and sprinkle the ground cumin and garlic powder on top.
   
4. Add the chopped red pepper and season it with salt and black pepper according to your taste. 
   
5. After that, whisk the eggs and water together in a large bowl and pour it evenly across the top of the other ingredients before topping it with the shredded cheese.
   
6. Cover and cook it on low for 4 hours. Finally, serve it immediately, topped with green onion, red pepper, fresh cilantro, and/or additional shredded cheese, if you desire. Enjoy! 

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