Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast

Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast has rescued many of my early camping mornings and busy weekends when I wanted a hot meal on the table right after waking up. All it takes is layering a few basic ingredients into the slow cooker the night before and in the morning you have a hearty breakfast packed with flavor

I remember the first time I served this to my friends at a cabin trip. We woke up to the irresistible smell of melted cheese and crisp hash browns and there were no leftovers

Ingredients

• Frozen hash browns: These give the casserole a satisfying base and keep prep quick Make sure to pick a brand with little added oil for the best texture
• Precooked ham or bacon: Brings in smoky savory flavor Use thick cut bacon or good quality ham for best results If you want a lighter taste you can use turkey bacon
• Medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth Yellow or sweet onions are perfect here Check for firmness and no soft spots when picking yours
• Green bell pepper: Brightens up the flavors and adds a little crunch Only use if you like a more colorful casserole Always choose firm glossy peppers with no wrinkles
• Grated medium cheddar cheese: Melts lusciously and brings richness Grate your own for the best melt and avoid pre shredded cheese which often has anti caking agents
• Eggs: Hold everything together and turn the casserole into a proper breakfast Choose the freshest eggs you can find
• Whole milk: Gives the egg base creaminess and helps set the casserole Whole milk makes the dish nice and custardy but you can sub in half and half for extra richness
• Salt: Brings all the flavors alive Use kosher or sea salt for a cleaner taste
• Black pepper: Adds just the right kick Go with freshly ground for the biggest punch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker:

Spray or grease the inside of your slow cooker generously so nothing sticks after hours of cooking

Layer the Ingredients:

Spread one third of the frozen hash browns evenly over the bottom Add one third of the ham or bacon Sprinkle on one third of the chopped onion and bell pepper if you are using it Season lightly with salt and pepper

Add Cheese:

Scatter one third of the grated cheddar cheese over the layer this makes sure you get gooey cheese in every bite

Build the Next Layers:

Repeat the layering with hash browns meat onion peppers and cheese two more times so all the ingredients are stacked in even layers

Mix the Eggs and Milk:

Crack all the eggs into a large bowl Pour in the milk Whisk vigorously until smooth and pale yellow with no streaks of yolk or white

Pour Over the Layers:

Slowly pour the egg mixture all around the slow cooker so it soaks down into all the layers and coats everything evenly

Cook Overnight:

Cover with the lid Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours until the eggs are puffed and set through to the center

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the casserole is cooked let it rest uncovered for five minutes before scooping or slicing into pieces for serving

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Cheddar cheese is my favorite part because it gets deliciously crispy around the edges in the slow cooker My brother always asks for an extra layer of cheese just for that golden crust

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The casserole reheats well in the microwave in short bursts or in the oven covered with foil at a low temperature If you plan to freeze it cool the portions fully wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months Thaw in the fridge and reheat until piping hot

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the ham or bacon for cooked breakfast sausage or even leftover roast chicken For a vegetarian version just skip the meat and add in sautéed mushrooms or cooked spinach Use your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a new flavor profile For the milk feel free to use half and half or even a dairy free substitute but keep in mind this may change the texture slightly

Serving Suggestions

Serve this crock pot breakfast with a side of hot sauce or salsa for a bit of a kick Warm biscuits toast or even fresh fruit rounds out the meal if you are feeding a hungry crowd I love offering a few toppings like avocado slices or extra cheese so everyone can customize their plate

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Cultural Note

Mountain Man Crock Pot Breakfast is a classic among campers and busy families My first memory of it came from a cowboy cookbook and it has become a staple at family reunions It captures the hearty spirit of mornings spent outdoors when you need something satisfying with minimal effort

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use sausage instead of ham or bacon?

Yes, sausage makes a flavorful substitute for ham or bacon in this dish. Brown and crumble it before layering for best results.

→ How do I prevent the ingredients from sticking to the slow cooker?

Grease or spray the interior of your slow cooker generously before adding ingredients to ensure easy serving and cleanup.

→ Can I add vegetables for more flavor?

Absolutely! Green peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Is it possible to prepare this the night before?

Yes, assemble and cook overnight on low. The dish will be ready and hot for breakfast in the morning.

→ What cheese works best in this dish?

Medium cheddar melts beautifully and offers a full flavor, but you can try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss.

→ How can I tell when the eggs are cooked through?

The eggs should be set with no liquid remaining on top. Cooking time typically ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low.