If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor, look no further than the Crack Breakfast Casserole.
This irresistible recipe combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy hash browns to create a dish that’s perfect for any morning occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch, meal prepping for the week, or simply treating yourself to a cozy weekend breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, share pro tips for perfecting it, and answer some common questions about this crowd-pleasing dish.
Why Is It Called “Crack” Breakfast Casserole?
The name “Crack” Breakfast Casserole refers to its addictive combination of rich and savory flavors. With creamy textures from the cream cheese, a cheesy kick from the cheddar, and the hearty satisfaction of sausage and hash browns, it’s hard to stop at just one serving. Don’t worry—this dish is perfectly legal and totally worth indulging in!
Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 40 minutes
Serving Size:
- 8 servings
Equipment Needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 (32 oz) package frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Sausage and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked and crumbled sausage with softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined for a smooth and creamy base.
3. Add Eggs, Milk, and Seasonings
Crack the eggs into the bowl and whisk them thoroughly with the milk. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
4. Fold in Hash Browns and Green Onions
Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and finely chopped green onions. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
5. Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
6. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing it into portions. This resting period helps it hold its shape and makes serving easier. Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Crack Breakfast Casserole
To take your breakfast casserole to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:
1. Choose Quality Sausage
The sausage is a key flavor component of this dish. Opt for high-quality breakfast sausage for maximum taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too.
2. Experiment with Cheese
While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added depth of flavor.
3. Whisk Eggs Thoroughly
To achieve a fluffy and even texture throughout your casserole, make sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly with the milk before combining them with the other ingredients.
4. Crisp Up Your Hash Browns
For an extra layer of texture, lightly sauté your hash browns in a skillet before adding them to the mixture. This step enhances their crispiness and adds a delightful crunch.
5. Let It Rest
Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking not only makes it easier to cut but also helps maintain its structure.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s bound to become your go-to breakfast recipe:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients like sausage or cheese to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat individual portions for quick weekday breakfasts.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Its hearty size makes it ideal for feeding a crowd at brunches or family get-togethers.
- Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
FAQs About Crack Breakfast Casserole
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.
2. Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely before wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap or storing them in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
3. Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, fresh hash browns work just as well. If you’re using fresh potatoes, be sure to shred them finely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before adding them to the mixture.
4. What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, jalapeños, or even spinach make great additions to this casserole. Just be mindful not to overload it with too many extras, as this could affect its texture.
5. How Long Does It Stay Fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this casserole will stay fresh for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for reheating throughout the week!
A Morning Must-Have
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Packed with flavors that are both indulgent and satisfying, it’s a dish that brings people together around the breakfast table. Whether you’re serving it up for a special occasion or making it part of your weekly routine, this casserole is guaranteed to brighten your morning.
So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven with every bite!
PrintCrack Breakfast Casserole
Start your day off right with this indulgent and savory Crack Breakfast Casserole. Packed with crumbled breakfast sausage, creamy cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy hash browns, it’s the perfect dish for brunch, special occasions, or meal prep. With layers of flavor and a comforting texture, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
6 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
1 (32 oz) package frozen hash browns, thawed
¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Sausage and Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked sausage and softened cream cheese until well blended.
3. Add Eggs and Cheese:
Add the eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper to the sausage mixture. Whisk until smooth and evenly combined.
4. Fold in Hash Browns:
Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and green onions, making sure the mixture is evenly distributed.
5. Bake:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for the best results.
Variations: Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option or mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
