Crack Breakfast Casserole

Wow, let me tell you about this indulgent Crack Breakfast Casserole that has quickly become a favorite in my home. The first time I whipped it up, my family couldn’t stop raving about how delightful and comforting it was. Imagine layers of hearty sausage, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful ranch seasoning, all nestled with crispy hash browns. It’s the ultimate brunch dish that serves as a crowd-pleaser at special occasions, family gatherings, or even just a special weekend breakfast. Once you try this, you’ll see why it’s known as “crack”—it’s just that good!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes this Crack Breakfast Casserole so special? It’s not just about the incredible flavors or the melty layer of cheese; it’s about all the benefits it brings to your breakfast table. This one-dish wonder is not only hearty and filling but also comes together quickly and easily. Perfect for busy weekday mornings and fancy brunches alike, it’s budget-friendly and can serve a crowd effortlessly. Plus, kids absolutely love it, so why not make it your go-to family meal?

“This casserole was so easy to make and turned out spectacular! Everyone asked for seconds. I’ll definitely be adding this to our brunch lineup!” – A Happy Home Cook

Preparing Crack Breakfast Casserole

Ready to whip this up? Making Crack Breakfast Casserole is a straightforward process. You start by cooking up the sausage and bacon, then mix a creamy base that brings everything together. Layer it with hash browns, cheese, and all the savory spices. Once it’s in the oven, your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas. After baking, let it rest, slice, and get ready for compliments at the breakfast table!

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious breakfast dish:

• 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

If you want to switch things up, feel free to use turkey sausage or add in your favorite veggies for added flavor.

Directions to Follow

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the pork sausage and chopped bacon until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until it reaches a smooth consistency.
3. Add the milk, eggs, ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
4. Stir in the cooked sausage, bacon, thawed hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until all the ingredients are combined.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Enjoying this Crack Breakfast Casserole is a delight in itself. It’s perfect as is, but you can elevate it by serving it alongside fresh fruit, a green salad, or even a light drizzle of salsa for a little kick. Pair it with a refreshing mimosa or hot cup of coffee, and you’ve got yourself a breakfast masterpiece.

How to Store

Storing leftovers of this delicious casserole is simple! Once cooled, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze any uneaten portions; just ensure it’s well-wrapped. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Tips to Make It Perfect

To ensure your casserole turns out beautifully every time, consider these handy tips:

• Thaw Hash Browns Well: It’s important to drain the thawed hash browns well to avoid sogginess.
• Mix Varieties of Cheese: For a different flavor profile, consider mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.
• Prep Ahead: This dish can be assembled the night before! Just pop it in the fridge before baking and it will be ready to bake in the morning.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Crack Breakfast Casserole! You can easily swap in different meats like ham or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with sautéed bell peppers and spinach. You could also add toppings like diced tomatoes or green onions for a fresh touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the casserole take to prepare?

Preparation time is about 20-30 minutes, with another hour for baking.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are finely shredded and par-cooked to achieve that crispiness.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Enjoy making and sharing this delectable Crack Breakfast Casserole and watch as everyone asks for your secret!

Print