Irresistible Crack Breakfast Casserole: The Ultimate Hearty Dish to Start Your Da
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and what better way to celebrate it than with a warm, cheesy, and savory casserole? The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a favorite for family gatherings, holiday mornings, or simply a cozy weekend treat. Packed with layers of breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, eggs, cheese, and a golden potato base, this dish will undoubtedly leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
This casserole is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a lifesaver. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish step-by-step!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage
- 1 cup (150g) cooked and crumbled bacon
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups (240g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 bag (32 oz/900g) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Separately, prepare your bacon by frying it in another skillet until crispy. Once done, crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In your greased casserole dish, spread the thawed hash browns evenly as the base layer. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by the crumbled bacon.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bacon. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, ensuring full coverage.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
To ensure the eggs are fully set, insert a toothpick or knife in the center—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage and bacon with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven.
- Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of green onions or fresh parsley on top after baking for a burst of color and freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicier flavor.
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of hearty meats, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese layered over crispy hash browns is pure comfort food perfection. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers for a quick breakfast, this dish is sure to brighten your day.
Try it this weekend and watch it become a beloved staple in your home. Share it with family, friends, or even coworkers at a potluck, and let the compliments roll in. You’ll quickly see why it’s called “crack” casserole—one bite, and you’re hooked!
Enjoy your delicious breakfast adventure!