Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe
The Ultimate Cheesy, Meaty, and Irresistible Breakfast Bake for Any Occasion
If you’re looking for a breakfast recipe that’s as delicious as it is satisfying, look no further than this Crack Breakfast Casserole. Loaded with savory breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, and plenty of shredded cheddar cheese, this hearty casserole will quickly become your go-to for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or holiday breakfasts. It’s not only easy to make, but it’s also customizable and packed with protein, making it the perfect start to your day.
This recipe is an instant crowd-pleaser, and whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a family gathering, it’s guaranteed to disappear in a flash. Plus, it’s gluten-free (depending on the ingredients used), and you can even make it ahead of time for added convenience.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 850mg
(Based on 8 servings)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup shredded hash browns (optional, adds texture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your casserole doesn’t stick to the dish during baking and comes out with a perfectly golden crust.
Step 2: Cook the Meats
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. Once the sausage is cooked, move it aside.
Next, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Combining the crispy bacon with the savory sausage will add a wonderful mix of textures and flavors to your casserole.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will create a rich, creamy base for your casserole, soaking into the meat and hash browns for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now it’s time to assemble! In your greased baking dish, layer the cooked sausage and bacon evenly on the bottom. If you’re using hash browns, spread them over the meat layer. The hash browns add a great texture to the casserole and help soak up the flavors.
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat and hash browns. Cheese is the star here—its melty, gooey texture will blend beautifully with the egg mixture. Finally, pour the egg mixture over the entire casserole, making sure everything is well covered.
Step 5: Bake
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly. If you like a slightly crispier top, you can let it bake for an additional 5 minutes, but be sure to check that the eggs are fully cooked.
Step 6: Let It Rest
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with fresh orange juice for a refreshing, citrusy contrast.
- A strong black coffee makes a perfect pairing with the richness of the casserole.
- Add a fruit salad for a lighter, sweet side dish that balances the savory flavors.
- For extra fiber, serve with avocado toast on the side—its creamy texture pairs perfectly with the cheesy casserole.
Great for Special Occasions:
- This casserole is perfect for holiday mornings like Christmas or Easter, when you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing breakfast that will keep everyone happy.
- It’s also ideal for brunch gatherings or as a make-ahead option for busy weekdays.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before. Simply cover it and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Customization Ideas:
- Cheese Swap: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can easily substitute it with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or green onions. These will bring in more color and freshness.
- Make It Lighter: If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage, or try a vegetarian sausage option for a lighter meal.
- Spice It Up: For a little heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Breakfast Casserole:
- High in Protein, Low in Carbs: This casserole is packed with protein from the eggs, sausage, and bacon, and keeps the carbs low, making it ideal for a keto or low-carb diet.
- Family-Friendly & Kid-Approved: Its savory, cheesy, and meaty combination makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. You can bake it the night before and have it ready for the next morning or feed a crowd on busy weekends.
- Comforting & Filling: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re preparing a large family breakfast or just treating yourself, this dish will make your mornings better.
Conclusion:
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is everything you want in a breakfast dish—cheesy, hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. With protein-packed sausage and bacon, creamy eggs, and gooey cheddar, it’s the perfect recipe to fuel your day. Make it ahead, serve it for brunch, or just enjoy it as a comforting breakfast anytime.
This recipe is bound to become a family favorite, so don’t forget to pin it, share it, or print it. It’s the kind of dish that’s worth making again and again! Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy