Looking for the 10 best brunch recipes that'll make your crock pot a star? You gotta try Overnight French Toast Casserole for that dreamy start to your day! How about a Spinach and Cheese Egg Bake? It's like a savory hug! Sweet Potato Hash adds a sweet kick, while Banana Bread Pudding is a must for dessert lovers. Don't miss out on the Sausage and Peppers Frittata or Breakfast Burrito Filling for something hearty. Cheesy Grits with Sausage will have you drooling, and Blueberry Cobbler is the perfect sweet ending. Stick around to discover even more tasty ideas that'll impress everyone!
Main Points
- Overnight French Toast Casserole offers a sweet and satisfying brunch option, perfect with maple syrup and served warm.
- Banana Bread Pudding combines delicious flavors of bread and bananas, served best with caramel drizzle or vanilla ice cream.
- Spinach and Cheese Egg Bake is a nutritious dish that's customizable with various cheeses and veggies, ideal for a hearty breakfast.
- Sweet Potato Hash provides a savory twist using sweet potatoes and spices, versatile enough to add meat for extra richness.
- Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a healthy, comforting choice that cooks overnight, offering a delightful start to the day with minimal effort.
Overnight French Toast Casserole
Brunch gatherings are the perfect opportunity to serve a delicious dish that requires minimal effort yet offers maximum flavor. One such dish is the Overnight French Toast Casserole, which can easily be prepared in your trusty slow cooker. This dish isn't only a crowd-pleaser but also allows you to enjoy the company of family and friends while it cooks, rather than spending all your time in the kitchen.
The creamy custardy base infused with vanilla and cinnamon envelops soft bread cubes, creating a comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
The beauty of this Overnight French Toast Casserole lies in its convenience. By preparing the casserole the night before, you can simply pop it into the crock pot the next morning and let it work its magic. Whether you're serving this for a holiday brunch, a special occasion, or just a cozy weekend at home, it's sure to be a staple in your recipe rotation.
Plus, the aroma that fills your home as it cooks is intoxicating, setting a warm and inviting tone for your gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or whipped cream
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Place the bread cubes in a greased slow cooker and pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, gently pressing down to verify all the cubes are soaked. Cover and refrigerate the mixture overnight.
The next morning, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
When preparing the Overnight French Toast Casserole, remember that the longer it sits, the more the bread will absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a richer texture.
Feel free to customize your casserole by adding in ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit before cooking. For an extra flavor boost, consider soaking the bread in a little bourbon or amaretto.
Always double-check if the casserole is set before serving, and enjoy this delightful brunch dish with your loved ones!
Spinach and Cheese Egg Bake
Brunch is the perfect opportunity to impress your guests with a delicious and hearty dish, and a Spinach and Cheese Egg Bake made in the crock pot is an excellent choice. This dish isn't only easy to prepare, but it can also be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your friends and family without spending all your time in the kitchen.
Packed with nutritious spinach, creamy cheese, and light fluffy eggs, this egg bake is a showstopper that will have everyone returning for seconds.
To make this Spinach and Cheese Egg Bake even more adaptable, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations or add additional ingredients such as diced bell peppers, onions, or cooked sausage. The crock pot allows for the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is a delightful blend of tastes.
With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking process, you can easily uplift your brunch gathering with this scrumptious dish.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup diced bread or croissants
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking spray
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by coating the inside of your crock pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Stir in the chopped spinach, shredded cheese, diced bread, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, mixing thoroughly.
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared crock pot and cover with the lid. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or until the eggs are set and the edges are lightly golden.
Once done, remove the lid and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares for serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, consider sautéing the spinach in a bit of olive oil before adding it to the egg mixture; this helps to improve its taste and reduce excess moisture.
Additionally, if you're short on time, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the fridge, then just pour it into the crock pot in the morning.
Feel free to personalize this recipe with your favorite ingredients and seasonings, making it a customizable dish that can modify to every taste!
Sweet Potato Hash
Sweet potato hash is a vibrant and flavorful dish that's perfect for brunch. Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory ingredients like bell peppers and onions, this recipe can easily be made in a crock pot for a delicious, hands-off cooking experience. This dish not only delights your taste buds but also packs in nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for breakfast or brunch.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld perfectly, guaranteeing every bite is full of deliciousness. One of the best things about sweet potato hash is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences, adding in your favorite spices or vegetables.
Whether enjoyed on its own or topped with a poached egg or avocado, this dish is sure to be a hit at your brunch table. It's also a great option for meal prep since leftovers can be easily reheated throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: avocado, poached eggs, or fresh herbs
In a crock pot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir everything together to guarantee the sweet potatoes and other vegetables are well coated with the seasoning.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender and cooked through. For the best results, try to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to guarantee even cooking.
If you're looking to elevate the flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices or add in ingredients like kale or spinach for additional nutrition.
Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your specific crock pot model, so keep an eye on the doneness of your sweet potatoes. Enjoy your delicious sweet potato hash!
Banana Bread Pudding
Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional bread pudding, filled with the sweet and comforting flavors of ripe bananas and rich custard. This dish is a perfect choice for a brunch gathering, offering a warm and indulgent dessert that can be made effortlessly in a crock pot. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a creamy texture and intensely flavorful dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
To create this delightful treat, ripe bananas are combined with bread, usually stale or leftover, and soaked in a sweet custard mixture. Infused with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, this dish isn't only simple to prepare but also an excellent way to reduce food waste by using up old bread. Serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of cut-up stale bread (such as brioche or French bread)
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, whisking until smooth. Grease the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray or butter.
Layer half of the bread pieces at the bottom of the crock pot, followed by half of the sliced bananas. Pour half of the custard mixture over the layers, then repeat with the remaining bread, bananas, and custard. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
For best results, use day-old or stale bread as it absorbs the custard better without falling apart. Feel free to add additional ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with more milk. Remember to let the banana bread pudding sit for a few minutes after cooking for easier serving, and enjoy it warm straight from the crock pot for ideal taste!
Sausage and Peppers Frittata
Sausage and Peppers Frittata is a delightful dish that can easily be prepared in a crock pot, making it perfect for any brunch gathering or family breakfast. This dish combines flawless Italian sausage with a medley of colorful bell peppers and creamy eggs, resulting in a satisfying and hearty meal that everyone will love.
The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a wonderful aromatic experience that will fill your kitchen. Cooking a frittata in a crock pot isn't only convenient but also guarantees that your dish turns out perfectly cooked without any guesswork.
By layering the ingredients and letting them cook slowly, you'll achieve a fluffy texture and a vibrant, rich flavor. Whether you're serving this dish at a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a nice breakfast, the Sausage and Peppers Frittata is bound to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage to a greased crock pot.
Add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers to the crock pot. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and peppers in the crock pot. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the eggs are set and fully cooked.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and peppers in the same skillet used for the sausage for a few minutes before adding them to the crock pot.
Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, or swap the sausage for turkey or vegetarian options. Be mindful of cooking times, as different crock pots may vary; checking the frittata's doneness with a toothpick is a great way to verify it's fully cooked without overcooking.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs, and enjoy!
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a hearty and nutritious breakfast option that can be made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This warm and comforting dish is perfect for chilly mornings or cozy brunch gatherings, as it fills the home with delightful aromas of cinnamon and apple while it cooks.
Using a slow cooker allows the oats to simmer low and slow, developing rich flavors and a creamy texture that you'll savor. Plus, with minimal prep, you can set it and forget it—making your mornings stress-free.
To enjoy this meal, simply gather your favorite apples and cinnamon, and let the natural sweetness of the fruit shine through. You can customize the recipe to suit your taste by using different types of apples or adding your preferred sweeteners, nuts, and dried fruits.
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal isn't only an easy breakfast solution but also a wholesome way to kickstart your day or serve to guests for a relaxed brunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 4 cups water or milk (or a mix of both for creaminess)
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup, optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of honey
For cooking, combine the oats, water (or milk), chopped apples, ground cinnamon, salt, brown sugar (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract in a slow cooker. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Set the slow cooker to low heat, cover, and cook for 6 to 7 hours. Once cooked, stir the oatmeal to combine and adjust the consistency by adding a bit more water or milk if needed. Serve warm in bowls with your choice of toppings.
When making Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, it's essential to choose apples that hold their shape during cooking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for an added punch of flavor. If you want to prepare this dish overnight, consider setting up your ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, storing it in the fridge, and starting it in the morning for an easy, warm breakfast waiting for you.
Breakfast Burrito Filling
Breakfast burritos are a fantastic way to kick-start your day, and using a crock pot makes it incredibly simple to prepare a hearty filling. Imagine waking up to the aroma of sizzling bacon, roasted vegetables, and fluffy scrambled eggs, all ready to be tucked inside a warm tortilla.
Whether you're feeding a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this crock pot breakfast burrito filling will deliver great taste and convenience without fuss.
Cooking this filling in a crock pot allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Simply combine your favorite breakfast ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work for you. You can customize the recipe to your taste, whether you prefer spiced chorizo, sautéed peppers, or creamy avocado. The result is a creamy, flavorful filling that you can easily scoop into tortillas when you're ready for brunch.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced cooked bacon or sausage
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Tortillas (flour or corn)
- Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
To prepare the filling, spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Add in the cooked bacon or sausage, bell peppers, onions, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly, then pour the mixture into the prepared crock pot.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the eggs are fully set and cooked through. Once finished, give the filling a good stir and serve it in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
When cooking this breakfast burrito filling, keep in mind that all slow cookers operate a little differently. It's essential to check the filling periodically toward the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking and ending up with rubbery eggs.
If you need to adjust the consistency, feel free to stir in a splash of milk after cooking. Additionally, remember you can add or substitute ingredients based on your personal preferences, making this dish versatile for any breakfast craving!
Cheesy Grits and Sausage
Cheesy Grits and Sausage is a comforting, hearty dish that's perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy weekend meal. This slow-cooked recipe combines creamy grits with rich sausage, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. The crock pot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the hands-off cooking process makes it an ideal choice for busy mornings. Just set it and forget it until you're ready to dig in!
Using a mix of sharp cheddar cheese and creamy butter, the grits become an incredibly indulgent base for the zesty sausage. With every spoonful, you'll relish the comforting textures and the savory depth that comes from this dish. Pair it with fresh fruit or biscuits for a complete brunch experience your family and friends will adore.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grits (quick or instant)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking instructions: In a large skillet, brown the crumbled breakfast sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess grease. In your crock pot, combine the grits, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then stir in the cooked sausage. Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.
Once the grits are tender, mix in the butter, milk, and shredded cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy consistency. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the sausage mixture before combining it with the grits. If you're making this dish ahead of time, it can be kept warm in the crock pot for up to an hour or two without drying out.
Adjust the thickness of the grits by adding more milk or broth according to your preference, and don't hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist!
Blueberry Cobbler
Blueberry cobbler is a delightful dessert perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The magic of a slow cooker allows you to infuse the delicious flavor of blueberries with a warm, crumbly topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This easy recipe will have your kitchen filled with the sweet smell of baked blueberries in no time, providing a comforting treat that can be enjoyed warm, room temperature, or even chilled.
What makes this blueberry cobbler even more appealing is the simplicity of preparation. With just a few fresh ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a dessert that's both satisfying and impressive. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. Whether it's a holiday brunch or a weekend snack, this blueberry cobbler will become a go-to favorite in your recipe arsenal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice; set aside to let the berries marinate for about 10 minutes.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Then, add the oats and brown sugar, stirring to blend.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Spread the blueberry mixture evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker and then layer the oat mixture on top. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the top is golden brown and the blueberries are bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding some spices like nutmeg or ginger to the oat topping for a warm, festive flavor.
If you're using frozen blueberries, there's no need to thaw them—just adjust the cook time slightly since they may take a bit longer to soften.
Finally, if you prefer a crunchier topping, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow the steam to escape, creating a delightful crispy texture on top.
Enjoy your delicious blueberry cobbler!
Veggie and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Start your day off right with a nutritious Veggie and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl made effortlessly in your crock pot. This wholesome dish is packed with protein from quinoa and an array of colorful vegetables, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you satisfied until lunchtime.
Plus, the best part is that it cooks slowly, allowing you to enjoy time with family or tackle your morning routine without the stress of constant monitoring.
To make this recipe even easier, simply toss all your ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the work for you. The vegetables cook down and meld beautifully with the quinoa, creating a warm and hearty breakfast bowl that's both fulfilling and healthy.
Customize it with your favorite seasonings or add some toppings like avocado or a fried egg for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, fried eggs, fresh herbs
In your crock pot, combine the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, diced bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture to guarantee everything is well distributed, then cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the quinoa is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Once done, give it a gentle stir and serve warm, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
For the best results, make certain to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preference.
This recipe is highly versatile; try adding beans for extra protein or using different spices to give it a unique twist. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick breakfast throughout the week!