Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole: Easy, Delicious & Hands-Off

This Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole takes just 20 minutes of prep and rewards you with a hearty, delicious breakfast casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or nailing your weekly meal prep. Your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting—it’s the ultimate “set it and forget it” dish that delivers warm, cheesy perfection every time.

I’m all about saving time without sacrificing flavor, and this recipe checks all the boxes. Instead of babysitting a stovetop or oven, you can let the slow cooker work its magic while you do, well, literally anything else. Whether you’ve got a busy morning ahead or just want a dish that leaves almost no cleanup, this one’s for you.

Why This Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole Is a Game-Changer

• Hands-off cooking: No need to monitor the casserole—your slow cooker handles everything.
• Meal prep made easy: This stores beautifully in the fridge, so one cooking session covers breakfast for the week.
• Customizable to your tastes: Swap the bacon for turkey sausage or add fresh herbs—this recipe is super flexible.
• Perfect for gatherings: With 8 generous servings, it’s a crowd-pleaser for brunches, family breakfasts, or potlucks.
• Skip the oven: No more worrying about uneven baking or heating up the whole kitchen.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole

A trusty slow cooker is the star of the show here. I recommend a 6-quart slow cooker for best results—it’s large enough to accommodate the casserole without overflowing, and the high setting ensures even cooking.

• Slow cooker: Look for one with a “High” setting and a glass lid so you can keep an eye on things if needed.
• Non-stick spray: This prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowls: Use a large one to whisk your eggs and ricotta to the perfect consistency.
• Whisk: A sturdy whisk ensures smooth, creamy eggs every time.

Pro Tip: If you’re in the market for a slow cooker, opt for one with a timer and automatic “keep warm” setting. It’s a lifesaver for multi-tasking.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole

This recipe is all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Here are the standout ingredients that make this casserole a winner:

• Ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy, rich texture that elevates this casserole above the rest.
• Colby-Jack cheese: A perfectly melty cheese blend that adds gooey goodness. Pre-shredded works great if you’re short on time!
• Beef bacon and diced beef: They pack in protein and savory flavor. Look for pre-cooked bacon or prep it ahead to save time.
• Fresh tomatoes: Sliced on top, they add a pop of freshness and a burst of color.

Quick Tip: If you’re looking to lighten things up, swap the beef bacon for turkey bacon or skip it altogether for a vegetarian version.

Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole Recipe Details

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole

• 9 large eggs
• 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp. dried dill
• 5 slices beef bacon, sliced and cooked
• 1 cup diced beef
• 16 oz. Colby-Jack cheese, divided
• 2 tomatoes, sliced

How to Make Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole

1. Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Divide your cheese: Cube 2/3 of it and grate the remaining 1/3 for topping later.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta, salt, pepper, thyme, and dill until mostly smooth—small chunks of ricotta are fine.
4. Layer the cubed cheese, cooked beef bacon, and diced beef inside the slow cooker.
5. Give the egg mixture one more whisk to ensure it’s well-blended, then pour it over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to HIGH. Cook for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
7. If you notice any liquid on top of the casserole, gently blot it with a paper towel before proceeding.
8. Sprinkle the reserved grated cheese over the casserole, cover, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until melted and gooey.
9. Scoop out servings and top each one with a slice of fresh tomato for a burst of brightness. Enjoy!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole

• Pre-cook your beef bacon: This saves time during assembly and ensures the bacon stays crispy rather than soggy.
• Use fresh herbs: Swap dried thyme and dill for fresh if you have them on hand—the flavor payoff is worth it!
• Meal prep tip: Divide leftovers into individual containers for grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
• Reheat like a pro: Warm single servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes—or pop them in the air fryer for crispy edges.
• Avoid overcooking: Check at the 2-hour mark to ensure it doesn’t get dry. Slow cookers can vary!

Easy Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the beef bacon and beef for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese blend and swap ricotta for a plant-based cream cheese substitute.
• Mexican twist: Add green chilies, pepper jack cheese, and a sprinkle of cumin for bold flavors.
• Clean out the fridge: Use up leftover cooked veggies, meats, or cheeses—it’s perfect for reducing food waste!

Slow Cooker Farmers Breakfast Casserole FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it the night before, store it in the fridge, and pop it into your slow cooker the next morning.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a creamy gouda would taste amazing here.

What if my slow cooker runs hot?

If your slow cooker cooks faster than most, start checking around the 2-hour mark to prevent overcooking.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I double this recipe?

Only if your slow cooker is large enough! For smaller models, stick to the original recipe to prevent overflow.

Ready to give this a try? Share your favorite variations in the comments—I can’t wait to hear how you customize yours!