The Ultimate Breakfast Casserole to Jumpstart Your Day!
Ever had a breakfast that makes you question all your life choices before it? You know, the kind that has you dreaming of cozy mornings spent with family? Crack Breakfast Casserole is exactly that — a creamy, savory delight that keeps you coming back for more. It’s one of those quick recipes everyone raves about and goes totally viral. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup for you (thank you, universe!).
Why Make This Recipe
So, why whip up this fantastic dish?
- Easy cleanup: This is all in one pan, so after you devour it, just toss that dish in the dishwasher — if you’re feeling fancy.
- Feed a crowd: Whether it’s your holiday brunch or just a Saturday treat, this casserole hits the sweet spot for family and friends alike.
- Affordable ingredients: You don’t need to break the bank for a delicious meal; this recipe is friendly on your wallet.
Who wouldn’t want a delicious breakfast that you can practically make in your sleep?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Gather up:
- 1 pound (450g) pork sausage
- 1 pound (450g) bacon, chopped
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120g) sour cream
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 (30-ounce/850g) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
- 1 (1-ounce/28g) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Ready to dive into the magic? Here’s how you make it:
- Brown that meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and bacon together until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Mix the creaminess: In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add the milk, eggs, ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine it all: Stir in the cooked meats, thawed hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Preheat and pour: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake away: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 50–60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy all the smiles!
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole (Overview)
Okay, let’s break it down!
- Start by cooking your meat until it’s crispy goodness. (Tip: Drain that fat; you want flavor, not grease!)
- While that brown magic happens, mix your creamy ingredients until smooth. Yes, this is the luscious part!
- Combine everything — meats, hash browns, and cheese galore!
- Bake that masterpiece in the oven, then let it rest. Seriously, don’t skip this; we want perfection!
How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole
Once out of the oven, this casserole becomes your brunch hero!
- Serve it piping hot, with toppings like some fresh herbs, avocado slices, or even a dollop of salsa for a zesty kick.
- Picture this: golden cheese on top, crispy bits from the bacon, and creamy goodness blending with the hash browns. Just divine!
How to Store Crack Breakfast Casserole
You’ll have leftovers, trust me!
- Fridge: Store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze it for up to 2 months. You can cut it into portions first for easy access.
- Reheating: Pop it in the microwave or oven. It heats up beautifully and tastes just as good!
Tips to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
Want to elevate your breakfast game even more? Here are some insider tricks:
- Use different meats: Try replacing pork sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Cheese binder: Want more flavor? Swap half of the cheddar for a spicy pepper jack.
- Make ahead: Prep everything the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning.
- Texture balance: For a crispy top, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after baking.
- Add veggies: Throw some sautéed peppers or spinach in there for an extra health boost.
Variation
Feeling adventurous?
- Go vegan by swapping sausage for plant-based sausage and using a plant-based cream cheese and milk.
- Want a spicy twist? Toss in some diced jalapeños or an extra kick of hot sauce for good measure!
FAQs
Can I substitute the sausage with something else?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage or even a veggie burger crumbled up.
How can I make this ahead of time?
Prep the night before and cover it with foil. Just pop it in the oven when you wake up!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it well!
Feeling inspired? Get ready to make this easy, creamy, and utterly delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and bacon together until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add the milk, eggs, ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the cooked meats, thawed hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 50–60 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.