11 Christmas Breakfast Slow Cooker Recipes for Stress-Free Mornings

As the holiday season nears, I can’t help but cherish those cozy mornings filled with joy and the aroma of delicious food. Picture waking up to a warm, ready-to-eat breakfast without the hassle. That’s the charm of slow cooker recipes. From creamy overnight oats to a savory sausage and egg casserole, these 11 recipes are your ticket to a laid-back Christmas morning. Curious to see what’s on the list?

Savory Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Start your Christmas morning off right with a warm and hearty Savory Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole. This dish is perfect for those who prefer a savory start to their holiday celebrations. The combination of flavorful sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese makes this casserole an instant favorite, filling your home with an irresistible aroma as it cooks.

Using a slow cooker guarantees that your morning is stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones. This breakfast casserole isn’t only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Simply prepare the ingredients the night before, then let the slow cooker work its magic while you unwrap gifts or relax with family.

It’s an ideal dish for a crowd, serving 4-6 people, and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re hosting a large Christmas breakfast or enjoying a cozy morning with a few friends, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 cups frozen hash browns
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. Mix the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Spread the frozen hash browns evenly at the bottom. Layer the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Add the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker, making sure it covers the sausage, hash browns, and cheese evenly.
5. Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook the casserole for 6-8 hours, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
6. Add Green Onions: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the casserole for added flavor and color.
7. Serve: Once the casserole is cooked through, use a large spoon to serve individual portions. Enjoy your savory breakfast casserole with family and friends.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture if you enjoy a bit of spice. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different taste.

To save time in the morning, all ingredients except the eggs can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply mix the eggs fresh in the morning and add to the slow cooker. This dish is very forgiving, so feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for additional texture and flavor.

Creamy Overnight Oats With Berries

Start your Christmas morning with a delightful and nutritious breakfast by preparing Creamy Overnight Oats With Berries. This dish isn’t only delicious but also incredibly convenient, as it allows you to enjoy a hassle-free breakfast on a busy holiday morning.

By using a slow cooker, you can prepare this recipe overnight, waking up to the comforting aroma of oats perfectly cooked to creamy perfection. The combination of oats and berries provides a balanced meal rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice to start your festive day.

The Creamy Overnight Oats With Berries is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer fresh or frozen berries, this recipe accommodates both, guaranteeing you have the freedom to choose your favorite fruits.

The slow cooker method guarantees a perfectly creamy texture, allowing the flavors of the berries to infuse into the oats overnight. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family breakfast or a small gathering of friends.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 4 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent the oats from sticking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Add Berries: Gently fold in the mixed berries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook overnight for 7-8 hours. The slow-cooking process allows the oats to absorb the liquid, resulting in a creamy texture.
5. Serve: In the morning, give the oats a good stir before serving. Spoon the creamy oats into bowls and top with additional berries and chopped nuts, if desired.

Extra Tips:

• If using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them before adding to the slow cooker. They’ll thaw and cook perfectly overnight.
• Adjust sweetness to your preference by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.
• For a richer texture, consider using full-fat Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is the perfect dish to fill your home with the warm, inviting scents of cinnamon and vanilla on Christmas morning. Imagine waking up to the aroma of cinnamon rolls and French toast combined into one delicious, mouth-watering breakfast.

This slow cooker recipe isn’t only comforting and indulgent, but it also allows you to enjoy your morning with family and friends without the hassle of being stuck in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the holiday festivities.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a cozy family breakfast. The combination of soft cinnamon rolls and rich custard is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, resulting in a dish that’s both tender and flavorful. Topped with a drizzle of sweet glaze, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake will quickly become a holiday tradition in your household. Gather your ingredients and get ready to treat your loved ones to a delightful Christmas breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step guarantees an easy cleanup and prevents the French toast from sticking to the sides.
2. Cut the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and place the pieces evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined. This mixture will soak into the cinnamon rolls, giving them a rich, custard-like texture.
4. Combine: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the slow cooker. Gently press down on the rolls to make sure they’re fully submerged in the custard.
5. Add Maple Syrup and Pecans: Drizzle the maple syrup over the top of the cinnamon rolls. If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans across the surface for added texture and flavor.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the custard is set and the edges are lightly browned.
7. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, drizzle the reserved icing that came with the cinnamon rolls over the top of the French toast bake. Serve warm, and enjoy the gooey, sweet flavors of this festive breakfast dish.

Extra Tips: To guarantee the best results, make sure to check the French toast bake around the 2.5-hour mark since slow cooker temperatures can vary. If you prefer a firmer texture, cook it slightly longer until the desired consistency is reached.

For an added touch, consider serving with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. If you want to prepare in advance, you can assemble the dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator, then start cooking in the morning.

Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food to start your Christmas morning. This slow cooker recipe combines all the classic breakfast favorites into one delicious dish, perfect for feeding a crowd of 4-6 people.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of melted cheese, savory sausage, and crispy hash browns, all cooked to perfection without the hassle of standing over a stove. This casserole isn’t only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy more time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the flexibility it offers. You can prepare it the night before and let your slow cooker work its magic overnight, or start it in the morning for a late brunch. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your family’s liking by adding or substituting ingredients.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or just want a hearty breakfast for your family, this Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen hash browns
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a spatula to break it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
2. Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Then, layer the frozen hash browns, cooked sausage, diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the layered ingredients.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until everything is well combined.
4. Combine Everything: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Use a spatula to gently press down so the ingredients are submerged and evenly spread.
5. Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
6. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding some chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the egg mixture.

Remember that slow cookers vary in temperature, so keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking. This dish is quite forgiving and can be kept warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to serve. Enjoy your stress-free Christmas morning with this delightful breakfast casserole!

Apple Pie Breakfast Quinoa

Apple Pie Breakfast Quinoa is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings the comforting flavors of apple pie to your breakfast table. This slow cooker recipe combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with the sweet and spiced notes of apples and cinnamon, providing a warm and satisfying start to your day. Ideal for a Christmas morning, this recipe allows you to prepare breakfast the night before, so you can wake up to the inviting aroma of apple pie wafting through your home.

Cooking this dish in a slow cooker not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together over several hours. Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, is complemented by tender apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness, making it a balanced meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Perfect for serving 4-6 people, this recipe guarantees everyone at your holiday breakfast table is well-nourished and ready for a day of festivities.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 ½ cups of quinoa, rinsed
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 4 cups of almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/4 cup of maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. This step is crucial to remove its natural coating, which can make it taste bitter.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a slow cooker, combine the rinsed quinoa, diced apples, almond milk, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. If desired, add walnuts and raisins or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
3. Stir and Set: Stir the mixture well to confirm all ingredients are evenly distributed. Place the lid on the slow cooker.
4. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to the low setting and cook for approximately 6-8 hours. This timing is perfect for an overnight cook, allowing you to wake up to a ready-made breakfast.
5. Stir and Serve: Once cooking is complete, give the mixture a good stir. The quinoa should be tender and the apples soft. Serve warm, optionally topped with additional walnuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Extra Tips:

When preparing Apple Pie Breakfast Quinoa, feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less maple syrup. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider using full-fat milk or adding a touch of cream prior to serving.

For added convenience, prepare all ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator, then simply combine them in the slow cooker in the morning. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal

Start your Christmas morning with a warm and comforting bowl of Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This indulgent breakfast combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with hearty oats, creating a deliciously creamy dish that will keep everyone satisfied.

Perfect for serving a crowd, this recipe allows you to enjoy the holiday festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, simmering the ingredients to perfection overnight or while you open presents with your loved ones.

Imagine waking up to the inviting aroma of chocolate and peanut butter wafting through your home. Whether you’re serving kids or adults, this oatmeal is a festive and nourishing way to start the day. It’s sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make year after year.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional toppings: sliced bananas, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent the oatmeal from sticking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the oats, milk, peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well to guarantee the peanut butter and cocoa powder are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Cook the Oatmeal: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the oats are tender and the mixture has thickened. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can stir the oatmeal occasionally during the cooking process.
4. Stir Before Serving: Once the oatmeal is cooked, give it a good stir to incorporate any ingredients that may have settled. If the oatmeal is too thick for your liking, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the oatmeal into bowls and add your choice of toppings, such as sliced bananas, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder or adding a handful of chocolate chips directly into the oatmeal before cooking.

If you’re serving this dish to guests with dietary restrictions, be sure to use gluten-free oats and a non-dairy milk alternative. You can also adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.

This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with different toppings and mix-ins to suit your family’s tastes.

Ham and Cheese Breakfast Strata

The Ham and Cheese Breakfast Strata is a delightful way to begin any Christmas morning. Imagine waking up to the savory aroma of ham, cheese, and eggs, all layered beautifully in a strata and cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This dish isn’t only delicious but also convenient, as it allows you to prepare it the night before and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your morning festivities.

Whether you’re serving a family of four or a slightly larger group of six, this recipe will provide a satisfying breakfast that sets the tone for a joyful day.

The beauty of the Ham and Cheese Breakfast Strata is in its simplicity and adaptability. You can customize the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or to use up leftover holiday ham and bread. The slow cooker method guarantees a perfectly cooked dish with minimal effort, freeing up your time to spend with loved ones.

Plus, the combination of flavors in this strata – hearty ham, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs – offers a comforting and hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 8 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or sourdough)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Toss them together to mix evenly. Transfer this mixture to the greased slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Make sure the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated.
4. Combine Everything: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread mixture in the slow cooker. Press down gently with a spatula to verify all the bread is soaked in the egg mixture.
5. Cook the Strata: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the eggs are set and the strata is cooked through. The top should be puffed and golden.
6. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the strata sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help it set further and make it easier to slice.

Extra Tips:

For best results, use day-old bread as it will absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. If you don’t have leftover ham, deli ham cut into small pieces can work as a substitute.

You can also experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. If you’re preparing this dish for a larger group, simply double the ingredients and extend the cooking time by about an hour.

Remember to check the strata occasionally to verify it doesn’t overcook.

Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats

Start your Christmas morning with the comforting warmth of Pumpkin Spice Steel Cut Oats made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This delightful dish combines the heartiness of steel cut oats with the seasonal flavors of pumpkin and warming spices.

With the magic of a slow cooker, you can set it up the night before and wake up to a delicious breakfast ready to serve. The creamy texture of the oats, combined with the rich pumpkin puree and a blend of spices, makes for a wholesome breakfast that captures the essence of the holiday season.

Perfect for feeding a family of 4-6, this recipe is both nutritious and filling. The steel cut oats provide a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the smoothness of pumpkin, while the spices add a festive touch that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply want a cozy morning treat, this recipe is a surefire way to start the day with warmth and cheer.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 1 cup steel cut oats
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, dried cranberries, additional maple syrup, or a sprinkle of brown sugar

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the steel cut oats, water, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Stir well to guarantee all ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Set the Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low. Cook for 6-8 hours. The longer cooking time will make the oats softer and creamier.
4. Check Consistency: In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they’re too thick for your liking, you can add a bit more milk to reach the desired consistency.
5. Serve: Spoon the pumpkin spice oats into bowls and add your choice of toppings like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
6. Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Extra Tips:

To prevent the oats from sticking too much to the sides of the slow cooker, consider using a slow cooker liner. If you prefer your oats sweeter, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup or add a sprinkle of brown sugar when serving.

For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the oats in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with spices to suit your taste. Enjoy the aroma that fills your home and the comforting taste of this holiday favorite.

Blueberry Pancake Casserole

Start your Christmas morning with a delicious and comforting Blueberry Pancake Casserole made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe combines the classic flavors of pancakes with the juicy sweetness of blueberries, creating a delightful breakfast dish that the whole family will love.

The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you enjoy the holiday morning with your loved ones, making it a stress-free option for a special breakfast.

This Blueberry Pancake Casserole is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family gathering. The combination of fluffy pancakes, tangy blueberries, and a hint of vanilla creates a delectable breakfast treat that’s sure to be a hit.

With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish allows you to enjoy the festive spirit without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of pancake mix
• 1 1/2 cups of milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup of maple syrup
• Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by greasing the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the batter is smooth.
3. Layer the Casserole: Pour half of the pancake batter into the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. Sprinkle half of the blueberries evenly over the batter.
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Pour the remaining pancake batter over the blueberries, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining blueberries and drizzle the maple syrup over the top.
5. Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pancake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Slice into portions and serve warm with additional maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Extra Tips:

When using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them before adding them to the batter; they’ll defrost and cook perfectly during the slow cooking process.

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you prefer a sweeter casserole, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or add a tablespoon of sugar to the pancake batter.

Remember to check the casserole occasionally towards the end of the cooking time, as slow cookers may vary slightly in heat distribution.

Southwestern Breakfast Burrito Filling

Start your Christmas morning with a hearty and flavorful Southwestern Breakfast Burrito Filling straight from your slow cooker. This dish is perfect for a festive breakfast, combining the robust flavors of spices, eggs, and sausage with the convenience of a slow cooker. The slow-cooked method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious filling that can be wrapped in tortillas for an easy breakfast burrito.

It’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending all morning in the kitchen, so you can enjoy the holiday festivities with your loved ones.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can prepare the ingredients the night before and let the slow cooker do the work while you sleep. By morning, you’ll have a delicious burrito filling ready to be served. The combination of eggs, sausage, beans, and spices provides a satisfying and protein-rich meal to kickstart your Christmas day.

Plus, the slow cooker keeps it warm, making it perfect for a leisurely morning where everyone can help themselves when they’re ready.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or both)
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-12 flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it into small crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease and transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add Vegetables and Beans: Add the diced onions, bell peppers, black beans, and green chilies to the slow cooker with the sausage. Stir to combine.
3. Mix Eggs and Spices: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the eggs are set and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to verify even cooking.
5. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the egg mixture. Cover and let it melt.
6. Serve: Spoon the mixture into warm flour tortillas and serve with your choice of toppings like salsa, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.

Extra Tips:

For best results, serve the burrito filling immediately after the cheese has melted, while it’s still hot. If preparing the ingredients the night before, store the egg mixture separately and add it to the slow cooker in the morning to prevent overcooking.

Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or incorporating fresh jalapeños for extra heat. To keep the tortillas warm and pliable, wrap them in foil and place them in a warm oven or use a tortilla warmer. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this slow-cooked Southwestern Breakfast Burrito Filling!

Gingerbread Spiced Granola

Embrace the festive spirit this holiday season with a delightful batch of Gingerbread Spiced Granola, prepared effortlessly in your slow cooker. This aromatic and crunchy granola is infused with the traditional spices of gingerbread, making it an ideal breakfast or snack that resonates with the warmth of Christmas.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it fills your home with the comforting scent of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg as it cooks. Perfect for a family breakfast or a cozy brunch gathering, this granola recipe serves 4-6 people and can be customized with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.

Whether you pair it with yogurt, milk, or enjoy it straight from the jar, this slow cooker granola is sure to be a hit. Not only is it a treat for your taste buds, but it also makes for a lovely homemade gift when packaged in a festive jar.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup raw almonds, chopped
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the almonds and pecans if they aren’t already prepared. Measure out the oats, coconut flakes, and other ingredients to guarantee you have everything ready.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, almonds, pecans, and coconut flakes. Stir well to guarantee the nuts and oats are evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, molasses, vanilla extract, and the spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Verify everything is thoroughly mixed.
4. Mix Everything Together: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Add the salt, then stir everything together until the oats and nuts are fully coated with the spiced syrup.
5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the granola mixture into your slow cooker. Spread it out evenly across the bottom.
6. Cook the Granola: Set your slow cooker to the low setting and cook for 2-3 hours. Leave the lid slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape, stirring the granola every 30 minutes to guarantee it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
7. Add Dried Cranberries: Once the granola is cooked and slightly crispy, turn off the slow cooker and stir in the dried cranberries. Let the granola cool completely in the slow cooker before transferring it to an airtight container.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee your granola turns out perfectly crunchy, make sure to stir it periodically during cooking to prevent any burning or uneven cooking.

If you prefer your granola on the clumpier side, try pressing it down with a spatula before leaving it to cool. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste preferences, and consider adding chocolate chips after the granola has cooled for an extra treat.

This granola stores well for up to two weeks in an airtight container, making it a convenient make-ahead option for the busy holiday season.