Oh my gosh, you guys, you have to try this Slow Cooker Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole! It’s one of those warm and comforting dishes that’s become a weekend staple in my house. I love how easy it is to throw together in the morning while still wearing my pajamas (seriously, who doesn’t love that?). Plus, it feeds my hubby and me, with plenty left over for our kitty’s little helper moments—she always seems to pop up right around meal prep!
The blend of creamy cheese, savory kielbasa, and crispy hashbrowns creates this irresistible combo that just screams breakfast goodness. It’s hearty and satisfying without a lot of fuss. You can enjoy it any time of the day, but there’s something special about digging into a warm bowl of it on a lazy Sunday morning. If you enjoy this, I highly recommend checking out my Loaded Breakfast Burritos. They’re another family favorite that’s perfect for meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
- Hearty and filling with a protein-packed kielbasa and cheesy goodness
- Perfectly crispy hashbrowns combined with creamy melted cheese
- Easy to prepare in just a few simple steps—set it and forget it!
- Great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the week
- Customizable: toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach
- Rich in flavor with a delightful blend of seasonings
This casserole is not only delicious but also a fantastic make-ahead option—prepare it the night before and pop it in the slow cooker for a stress-free morning!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
This breakfast casserole is a delightful way to kick off your day—it’s cheesy, hearty, and super easy to whip up! Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for lazy weekends or gatherings with friends and family!
What You’ll Need:
- Kielbasa – 1 pound, diced. I love using Hillshire Farm smoked kielbasa for its rich flavor, but any good quality brand will do.
- Frozen hashbrowns – 1 (30-ounce) bag (or about 6 cups). These save time and are perfect for adding that crispy texture.
- Onion – 1 medium, diced, for a touch of sweetness and depth.
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded. I prefer sharp cheddar for that extra kick!
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded, for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Eggs – 6 large, the base of this dish that holds everything together.
- Milk – 1 cup, to keep things creamy. Use whole milk for the best results.
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, adding a garlicky aroma.
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon, for flavor depth without the chopping!
- Salt – 1 teaspoon, to enhance all those lovely flavors.
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, for a little spice.
- Paprika – 1/4 teaspoon, adding a subtle warmth and color.
- Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon (optional), for garnish and fresh color when serving.
The Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the diced kielbasa, frozen hashbrowns, and diced onion. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika until everything is fully combined and frothy.
- Add the egg mixture to the hashbrown mixture. Stir well until all the ingredients are coated nicely.
- Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour the hashbrown and kielbasa mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the mixture with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, covering all the hashbrowns.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- When done, serve warm! Garnish with dried parsley if desired for a pop of color. Enjoy this cheesy delight!
Feel free to personalize this dish! Throw in some bell peppers or spinach for a nutritious boost. You can even prep it the night before and pop it in the slow cooker in the morning for an effortless breakfast. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Fresh Kielbasa Instead of Diced Kielbasa?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh kielbasa, make sure to slice it and cook it slightly before adding to the casserole. This will ensure that it’s fully cooked by the time the casserole is done. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you find it needs more time to reach the desired doneness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to keep it from drying out.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes, you can mix and match cheeses based on your preference! Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains roughly the same for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe with Eggs Substitutes?
Definitely! If you need an egg substitute, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or a store-bought egg replacer. You’ll want to adjust the cooking time slightly, as the mixture may set differently when using substitutes.
