This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish that brings comfort to your morning! With layers of fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for brunch or meal prep, I love how easy it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! You might even want to have it for dinner—it’s that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use pork or other meats, like turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. A veggie sausage works well for a meatless alternative. I’ve used both, and they both taste delicious!
Frozen Hash Browns: Shredded hash browns are great for convenience. If you can’t find them, shredded fresh potatoes can work too, just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, cream cheese made from cashews or almond yogurt can be good substitutes. I find that the original adds a wonderful richness!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives amazing flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or a cheese blend. Sometimes, I combine different cheeses for extra depth of flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Casserole?
Getting the right texture in a breakfast casserole is all about balance. You want it to be fluffy and not too soggy. The key steps include:
- Use a mixture of both hash browns and cooked sausage for layers of texture.
- Make sure to mix the eggs and milk thoroughly so everything binds well.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up for easier slicing.
If you find your mixture too loose, a bit more cheese or a handful of breadcrumbs can help thicken it up!
How to Make a Delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or your choice)
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (shredded)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crack Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and another 45-50 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need about an hour to get everything cooked and ready. Plus, the cooling time is well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, you can prepare your ingredients. Don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, so nothing sticks!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. As it cooks, break it apart into crumbles with a spatula. Once done, remove it from the heat and drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix the Creations:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with your cooked sausage, frozen hash browns, and the finely chopped onion. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and looks delicious!
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, crack those eight eggs and add in the milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and fluffy.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Pour the egg mixture into the sausage and hash brown mix. Stir it all together until it’s evenly combined—you want every bite to taste amazing!
6. Spread into Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures it cooks just right all the way through.
7. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Because who can resist extra cheese, right?
8. Bake It Up:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. It’s done when the center is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
9. Cook the Bacon:
While the casserole is baking, cook your bacon until it’s crisp. After cooking, drain it on some paper towels to remove the grease, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
10. Finish and Serve:
Once your casserole is out of the oven, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before cutting into it.
11. Enjoy!
Now, dig in! Enjoy your cheesiest, bacon-filled Crack Breakfast Casserole with family or friends for a delightful breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative to pork sausage and will work just as well in this casserole. It’s a delicious option for those looking for a lighter meal.
Can I Make This Casserole a Day Ahead?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. These will still provide a creamy texture, but the flavor will be slightly different. Just make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed!