Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate morning saver with a mix of eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread all baked into one comforting dish. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with protein, making it perfect for a busy morning or a lazy weekend brunch. The sausage adds a bit of spice and the melted cheese pulls everything together for a cozy breakfast you can slice and serve easily.
I love making this casserole ahead of time because it lets me sleep in a little longer or prepare for a crowd without standing over the stove. You just pop it in the oven, and the house fills with that wonderful smell of eggs and sausage cooking. It feels like a hug in breakfast form, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that always gets rave reviews from family and friends.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Sometimes I add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a little extra kick. This casserole is great for holidays, weekend gatherings, or just when you want something easy that everyone will love. It’s a classic that never gets old in my kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast sausage: This adds great flavor and protein. Use turkey sausage for a leaner option, or try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
Cheddar and mozzarella cheese: Sharp cheddar gives tang, mozzarella adds gooey texture. You can swap cheddar for Colby or Monterey Jack if you like a milder taste.
Bread: White bread soaks up the egg mixture well. You can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread to fit your preference.
Sour cream: This keeps the casserole moist and creamy. Greek yogurt works well here too if you want less fat.
Bacon and green onions: They bring crunch and freshness on top. Feel free to add chives or fresh herbs if green onions aren’t handy.
How Do You Get the Perfect Casserole Texture Without It Being Too Soggy or Dry?
Balancing moisture in breakfast casseroles can be tricky. Here’s how to get a just-right texture:
- Don’t over-soak the bread. Just stir it gently in the egg mix so it absorbs some liquid but holds shape.
- Cook sausage fully and drain any extra grease to avoid moisture excess.
- Using sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess without making it runny.
- Bake at 350°F until the casserole is set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this means it will finish cooking as it rests.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking; this helps it firm up for clean slices.
Following these tips helps you enjoy a casserole that’s tender, cheesy, and holds together nicely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large skillet – cooks the sausage nicely and lets you brown it evenly.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk eggs and mix all ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk or fork – helps you beat eggs and combine the wet ingredients without lumps.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping bread, bacon, and green onions.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for diced ham or cooked chorizo for different meat flavors.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Mix in fresh spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrients.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 5 slices white bread, cubed
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, allow about 5 minutes for the casserole to rest before serving. Overall, plan for around an hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sausage
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it up into small pieces until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease, then set the sausage aside to cool a bit.
2. Mix the Egg and Bread Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the cubed bread, gently stirring to coat all the pieces evenly with the egg mixture.
3. Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the cooked sausage, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and the chopped green onions into the egg and bread mixture.
4. Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top, then add the chopped cooked bacon evenly over the cheese layer. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle (a knife inserted should come out mostly clean).
5. Serve and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Cut into squares and garnish each serving with extra chopped green onions and bacon pieces. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Crack Breakfast Casserole with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a satisfying start to your day!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, then drain any excess grease after browning.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for White Bread?
You can use whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free bread cubes if you prefer. Just use bread that’s slightly stale or lightly toasted for best texture.
