Hearty Slow Cooker Breakfast

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 6 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
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Looking for a breakfast that practically makes itself while you sleep? This hearty slow cooker breakfast is your answer. It's perfect for lazy weekends or busy weekday mornings when you want something warm and satisfying without the morning rush.

Ingredients for Hearty Slow Cooker Breakfast

Russet potatoes provide a hearty base and soak up flavors beautifully. Cheddar cheese adds a creamy, sharp richness that melts perfectly. The eggs bind everything together and give the dish a fluffy texture. Milk lightens the egg mixture, ensuring it sets smoothly. Bacon brings a savory, smoky flavor that complements the potatoes and cheese. Salt, pepper, and paprika season the dish, adding depth and a touch of warmth. Finally, green onions add a fresh, slightly pungent finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes, ensuring they cook uniformly.
  • Pre-cook the bacon until it's just crisp to avoid sogginess.
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. For a brunch spread, consider serving with a fresh green salad or some warm, crusty bread on the side. A bit of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream can also be nice for those who want a little extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
What if I don’t have russet potatoes?
Yukon gold or even sweet potatoes can be used for a twist, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I prepare this the night before?
Yes, you can assemble everything and store the slow cooker insert in the fridge. Just add 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.

Hearty Slow Cooker Breakfast Recipe Walkthrough

Start by coating the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray. This will prevent any sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just try to cover the base evenly.

Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Now, repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and cheese, creating a delicious layered effect that will meld together as it cooks.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. This mixture will soak into the potatoes and cheese, cooking into a custard-like delight. Pour it evenly over the layers in the slow cooker, ensuring that every section gets some of the liquid.

Top everything with the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. These will add a pop of color and flavor, making the dish as visually appealing as it is tasty. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the potatoes are tender.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Set it and forget it: Perfectly cooked while you sleep or go about your day.
  • Comforting and filling: Combines eggs, cheese, potatoes, and bacon in one dish.
  • Minimal prep work: Simple ingredients, quick to assemble.
  • Great for feeding a crowd: Ideal for family gatherings or brunches.

Ingredients

1 lb of russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 large eggs
1 cup milk
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Coat the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick spray.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle half the cheese over the potatoes.
4. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese.
5. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
7. Top with crumbled bacon and green onions.
8. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until eggs are set and potatoes are tender.

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