Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, delicious morning dish that brings together fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a blend of savory flavors all baked into one easy casserole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or just having leftovers that taste even better the next day. The combination of creamy eggs, crunchy bread or hash browns, and gooey melted cheese makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
I love making this casserole when I want something filling, but don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking in the morning. It’s one of those recipes where you can prep it the night before, then pop it in the oven the next day while you get ready. Plus, it’s super flexible — you can add your favorite veggies or swap out the bacon for sausage or ham, depending on what you have. I always feel like I’m winning when I find a recipe that’s both simple and so crowd-pleasing.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a side of fresh fruit and a cup of piping hot coffee. Whether it’s for a holiday brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table. Honestly, it almost feels like cheating how easy and tasty it is, and once you try it, I bet you’ll want to make it again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are great for texture and convenience. If you don’t have hash browns, diced potatoes or even cooked rice can work as a base.
Breakfast Sausage: Cooked sausage adds flavor and heartiness. You can swap it with ground turkey, bacon, or ham if you prefer. For a veggie option, try plant-based sausage or just increase the veggies.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These give the casserole its creamy, rich texture. If you want a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or a reduced-fat cream cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang and melts well. You can use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses; just make sure they melt nicely.
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole Is Cooked Through but Still Moist?
Baking this casserole so it’s firm but not dried out takes a little attention. Here are some tips:
- Use a thermometer to check the center reaches about 160°F (71°C) to ensure eggs are fully cooked.
- Don’t cover the casserole during baking; this helps the top brown and cheese melt nicely.
- Rest the casserole after baking for 5 minutes — this lets it firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Be careful not to overcook, or it can get dry. If it starts browning too fast, tent with foil.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowls – you’ll need at least two for mixing ingredients separately.
- Whisk or hand mixer – helps blend cream cheese smoothly and beat eggs well.
- Non-stick skillet – for cooking sausage and bacon before adding to casserole.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredient amounts accurate.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked ham or diced bacon for a different meat taste.
- Add diced bell peppers or onions for a fresh, crunchy veggie pop.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of spicy kick.
- Include chopped spinach or kale to sneak in some greens without changing flavor much.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Breakfast Casserole Base:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 55 to 65 minutes of baking time. Allow about 5 minutes for the casserole to rest before serving. In total, plan for roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to keep breakfast casserole from sticking.
2. Mix Hash Browns and Sausage:
In a large bowl, mix your thawed hash browns and cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage together. Then spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of your casserole dish.
3. Blend the Cream Cheese and Eggs:
In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This keeps the mixture nice and creamy.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Stir in the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until nicely combined.
5. Combine Layers in the Casserole Dish:
Pour the egg mixture over your hash browns and sausage. Gently stir a little to make sure everything is evenly distributed. Then sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake Your Casserole:
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are fully set and the top is starting to turn golden brown.
7. Add Final Topping and Finish Baking:
Take the casserole out and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon. Return it to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes to melt the cheese and warm the bacon.
8. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes so it firms up a bit. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if you like. Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes! If you prefer fresh potatoes, dice and parboil them first to ensure they cook through evenly. Just make sure to drain well before mixing them into the casserole.
Can I Prepare the Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Can I Substitute the Sausage with Another Protein?
Yes, feel free to swap breakfast sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage alternative to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
