Crack Breakfast Casserole is a deliciously hearty dish perfect for mornings when you want something comforting and satisfying. It combines savory sausage and bacon with creamy cheese and tender hash browns. This casserole is simple to make and great for family gatherings or a cozy brunch. You can even prep it the night before!

Why You Will Love This Crack Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings. It uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your fridge and pantry. The flavors blend beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal that your family will love. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup for you!

How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole

Making this casserole is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by cooking your meats and mixing everything together. Then, bake it all in the oven until it’s golden and bubbly. It’s as simple as that! You’ll have a dish that’s warm, comforting, and ready to feed a crowd.

What You Need

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

Step-by-Step

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and chopped 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 the cooked meats, thawed hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture until evenly incorporated.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50–60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole

This breakfast casserole is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some fruit for a balanced meal. You can add toppings like sliced green onions, fresh herbs, or even a dollop of salsa for added flavor. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or casual family breakfasts.

How to Store Crack Breakfast Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly. Place it in the fridge, and it should stay fresh for about 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual portions. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Recipe Tips

Prep in Advance: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Just bake it the next morning!
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different types of cheese to suit your taste. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice twist.
Hash Brown Options: Use fresh shredded potatoes if you prefer a homemade touch, but frozen makes it easy.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on it right before the end of the cooking time to avoid a dry texture.
Add Veggies: You can sneak in some chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variations & Swaps

Veggie Version: Swap out the meats for sautéed mushrooms and spinach to make a delicious vegetarian casserole.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your ranch seasoning is gluten-free and use gluten-free hash browns if necessary.
Spicy Twist: Add some diced jalapeños or toss in a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish the night before. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Then, bake it the next day. If you do this, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure the casserole is completely cooled before wrapping and freezing. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

Is it okay to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just shred them and rinse them to remove excess starch before adding to the mixture. You may need to cook them lightly first to ensure they soften properly during baking.

How do I avoid a soggy casserole?
Make sure to drain the hash browns well and avoid adding too much liquid. If your mixture seems too wet before baking, you can increase baking time slightly to help it set.