Delicious crack breakfast casserole has become my go-to for any weekend brunch or special occasion, and I know you’ll love it too! This dish is the ultimate comfort food, packed with savory sausage, crispy bacon, and pockets of gooey cheddar cheese, all nestled with tender hash browns in a rich, creamy egg mixture. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and brings everyone to the table with smiles. This isn’t just any breakfast bake; it’s an experience. The combination of textures and flavors, especially the luscious cream cheese base, is why people rave about it. If you’re looking for a truly satisfying and easy breakfast that feels incredibly special, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!
Why This is the Best Crack Breakfast Casserole
I know there are a lot of breakfast casseroles out there, but trust me, this one truly stands out. It’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to put together, which is a huge win for busy mornings. The combination of savory meats, melty cheese, and that signature creamy base is simply irresistible – it’s honestly why is crack breakfast casserole so good! Plus, its versatility means you can tweak it to fit almost any occasion or dietary need. You can even assemble it the night before, making it the perfect stress-free option for weekend brunches or holiday mornings. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that always gets rave reviews.
- Incredibly simple to prepare, even for beginners.
- Rich, savory, and cheesy flavors that everyone loves.
- Easily customizable with different meats or cheeses.
- Perfect for make-ahead convenience.
- Uses common, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Delivers a satisfying and comforting breakfast experience.
Ingredients for Ultimate Crack Breakfast Casserole
To create this incredibly satisfying ultimate crack breakfast casserole, you’ll need a few key players that come together for pure magic. The star, of course, is the rich and creamy base made from 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – this is crucial for that luxurious texture that defines a cream cheese crack breakfast casserole. We’ll also need 1 cup sour cream for tang and moisture, 1 cup whole milk, and 6 large eggs to bind it all together. For that signature savory depth, grab 1 pound pork sausage and 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled. The essential texture comes from 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, which soak up all those amazing flavors. Don’t forget 1 packet ranch seasoning mix for a zesty kick, plus 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and basic seasonings like salt to taste and pepper to taste. Finally, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese gets divided between the mix and the topping.
Ingredient Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! For a truly cheesy crack breakfast casserole, feel free to swap some cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack. If you’re looking for a different meat profile, try using turkey sausage instead of pork, or focus on the bacon crack breakfast casserole by adding extra crispy bacon bits. For a heartier sausage crack breakfast casserole, use a flavored breakfast sausage. You can also sneak in finely diced bell peppers or onions for an extra veggie boost.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole: Step-by-Step
Ready to assemble this amazing breakfast? Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a delicious dish perfect for any morning. This recipe for how to make crack breakfast casserole is designed to be straightforward, even with the hash browns.
- Step 1: First, let’s get those delicious meats cooked. In a large skillet, brown 1 pound pork sausage and 1 pound bacon (chopped) over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and crispy! Once cooked, drain off any excess fat – this is key for the final texture.
- Step 2: Now for the creamy magic! In a large bowl, combine the 8 ounces softened cream cheese and 1 cup sour cream. Whisk them together until they are completely smooth and luscious.
- Step 3: To this creamy base, stir in 1 cup whole milk, 6 large eggs, the packet of ranch seasoning mix, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and then season with salt to taste and pepper to taste. Whisk everything until it’s perfectly blended.
- Step 4: Time to bring it all together! Stir the cooked sausage and bacon into the cream cheese mixture. Then, add the 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns (make sure they’re thawed!) and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix everything until it’s just combined.
- Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 6: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Step 7: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for about 50–60 minutes.
- Step 8: For that perfect golden-brown finish, remove the foil and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be bubbly and slightly browned.
- Step 9: Let your incredible crack breakfast casserole with hash browns cool slightly for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead Crack Breakfast Casserole Tips
Want to simplify your morning even further? You can totally assemble this make ahead crack breakfast casserole the night before! Just follow steps 1 through 6, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, keep the foil on, and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Savory Breakfast Crack Casserole
Achieving that perfect texture and flavor in your savory breakfast crack casserole is all about a few simple tricks. First, make sure you drain the fat from the sausage and bacon thoroughly after cooking; nobody wants a greasy casserole! Also, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened before mixing it with the sour cream – this guarantees a smooth, lump-free base. Don’t overbake it; watch for those golden edges and bubbly cheese, but pull it out when it’s just set to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Drain meats well to prevent greasiness.
- Use fully softened cream cheese for a smooth mixture.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture.
- Let it rest briefly before serving for best results.
What’s the secret to a great crack breakfast bake?
The real magic of a great crack breakfast bake lies in the balance of rich creaminess from the cream cheese and sour cream, combined with the savory punch of bacon, sausage, and the unique flavor of the ranch seasoning. It’s this perfect harmony that makes it so addictive!
Can I make a gluten-free or low-carb crack breakfast casserole?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free crack breakfast casserole, simply check that your ranch seasoning packet and frozen hash browns are certified gluten-free. If you’re aiming for a low-carb crack breakfast casserole, you can omit the hash browns entirely or swap them for seasoned cauliflower rice for a similar texture. For more information on dietary needs, you can consult resources on dietary guidance.
Serving Suggestions for Crack Casserole for Breakfast
This hearty and delicious crack casserole for breakfast is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few other items to make a complete meal. For a balanced brunch, I love serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad – the sweetness of the fruit cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully. A side of whole-wheat toast or some crusty bread is also a great option for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness. If you’re feeling fancy or want to add some greens, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette works surprisingly well. These simple crack casserole ideas breakfast pairings ensure everyone at your gathering gets a meal they’ll truly enjoy!
Nutritional Information
When you make this incredible Crack Breakfast Casserole, it’s good to know what you’re serving up. This recipe is designed to be satisfying and packed with flavor. Per serving (which typically yields about 8 slices), you can expect roughly Calories: 400 kcal. It’s a good source of protein, offering around Protein: 25g, which helps keep you feeling full.
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Storing and Reheating Your Crack Breakfast Casserole
Leftovers of this fantastic easy crack breakfast casserole recipe are a gift that keeps on giving! To store, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. This makes it super convenient for busy weeks!
When you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of great options. For individual slices, the microwave is quick and easy – just heat on medium power for 45-60 seconds, or until warmed through. If you have a larger portion or prefer a crispier texture, place a slice (or the whole remaining casserole) in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight first, then follow the oven reheating instructions, adding a few extra minutes.
Print
Crack Breakfast Casserole: 8 Amazing Bites
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is an easy and comforting dish perfect for gatherings. It features a delicious blend of savory sausage, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, hash browns, and a creamy egg mixture. You can customize it to suit dietary needs, like gluten-free or low-carb options, and it’s convenient to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Pork Sausage
- 1 pound Bacon
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 6 large Eggs
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 30 ounces Frozen Shredded Hash Browns
- 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage and chopped bacon over medium-high heat until browned and crispy. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in milk, eggs, ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Stir in the cooked sausage, bacon, thawed hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50–60 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or chives for added color.
- For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free ranch seasoning and ensure hash browns are gluten-free.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute sausage and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
- To reduce calories, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt and use less cheese.
- Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey jack.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for enhanced aroma.
- Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- Use flavored breakfast sausage links for a bolder flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 200 mg