The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a savory and cheesy delight that’s perfect for starting your day off on the right foot. Packed with crispy bacon, ground sausage, creamy eggs, and lots of cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re preparing a hearty family breakfast, brunch with friends, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a winner.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, tips, preparation time, and calorie details to help you create this indulgent breakfast favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Ground sausage (pork or turkey): 1 pound
- Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Eggs: 10 large
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
- Milk or heavy cream: 1 cup
- Hash browns (frozen or freshly shredded): 3 cups
- Green onions (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
Instructions Crack Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into pieces. Set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the ground sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Spread the hash browns evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by a layer of crumbled bacon.
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly across the layers. This step might be a little tricky, so drop small dollops and spread as best as you can Crack Breakfast Casserole
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or heavy cream), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set, and the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Tips for the Best Crack Breakfast Casserole
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to incorporate some vegetables.
Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Ensure Even Cooking: Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready Crack Breakfast Casserole
Calories Per Serving
The calorie count will vary based on portion size and ingredients. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving (based on 8 servings):
Ground sausage: ~280 calories
Bacon: ~120 calories
Eggs (1.25 per serving): ~95 calories
Cheddar cheese: ~90 calories
Cream cheese: ~100 calories
Hash browns: ~110 calories
Total per serving (approximate): ~795 calories.
For a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Why This Casserole is a Hit
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, this casserole keeps you satisfied for hours.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for feeding a large group at gatherings or holidays.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Saves time and effort on busy mornings.
Delicious Variations
Keto-Friendly: Skip the hash browns and add more meat or low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and other veggies.
Southwestern Twist: Add black beans, salsa, and pepper jack cheese for a Mexican-inspired flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with toast or biscuits for an extra comforting breakfast.
Add hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Conclusion
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a must-try recipe that combines savory, cheesy, and meaty flavors into one irresistible dish. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and sure to be a favorite at any table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this casserole is a delicious way to start the day.