Slow-Cooker Bacon, Smoked Cheddar and Egg Casserole

The classic breakfast trinity of bacon, egg and cheese gets a grown-up twist in this easy slow-cooker bake with the help of smoked cheddar, fresh mushrooms and crushed red pepper.

Ingredients

1. •           10 cups cubed French or ciabatta bread (about 12 oz)
2. •           2 tablespoons butter
3. •           1 package (8 oz) sliced fresh mushrooms (about 3 cups)
4. •           9 eggs
5. •           2 cups (1 pint) half-and-half
6. •           ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
7. •           2 cups shredded smoked Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
8. •           1 lb thick-sliced bacon, cooked, drained and coarsely chopped
9. •           1 green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
10. •           ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley

Directions

1. Heat oven to 300°F. On large cookie sheet, spread bread cubes. Bake 20 to 30 minutes or until dry.
2. Line sides of 4- to 5-quart slow cooker with foil that has been folded into thirds; spray with cooking spray.
3. In 10-inch skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, just until tender.
4. In large bowl, beat eggs, half-and-half and pepper flakes with whisk. Reserve 3/4 cup cheese; set aside. Stir in remaining cheese, the bacon, bell pepper and 2 tablespoons of the parsley. Fold in bread cubes; stir to coat. Spoon mixture into slow cooker.
5. Cover; cook on Low heat setting 4 to 5 hours or on High heat setting 2 to 3 hours or until temperature reaches 160°F in center and egg mixture is set.
6. Sprinkle reserved cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons parsley over top. Cover; cook about 10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Remove foil before serving by loosening edges with table knife. 

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