When it comes to hearty and crowd-pleasing breakfast dishes, the Crack Breakfast Casserole steals the show. This delightful combination of savory sausage, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and tender hash browns is a surefire way to kickstart your day. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, meal-prepping for busy mornings, or simply craving a comforting dish, this casserole has you covered.
Why Choose a Breakfast Casserole?
Casseroles are the epitome of convenience and flavor. They’re perfect for:
- Feeding a crowd: Easily scalable, casseroles can satisfy large gatherings without hassle.
- Make-ahead meals: Prep it the night before, bake it fresh in the morning, and enjoy!
- Customizable recipes: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a standout choice because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and loaded with layers of irresistible flavors.
What Makes This Recipe “Crack”?
The term crack refers to the dish’s addictive combination of ranch seasoning, creamy cheese, and smoky meats. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and cheesy goodness that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s dive deeper into the ingredients that make this casserole so special:
Protein Power
- Breakfast Sausage: Adds a robust, savory flavor. Opt for spicy sausage if you like a little heat.
- Crispy Bacon: Smoky and crunchy, bacon enhances the casserole’s texture and taste.
Cheesy Goodness
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star ingredient that provides a creamy and gooey finish. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.
Creamy Base
- Eggs and Milk: The foundation that binds the casserole together, giving it a rich and custardy texture.
- Ranch Dressing Mix: Infuses the dish with a zesty and herby flavor.
Carb Comfort
- Frozen Hash Browns: The ultimate comfort food base, hash browns soak up the savory goodness while remaining tender and flavorful.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure an easy release after baking.
Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and bacon over the hash browns.
Add the Cheese
- Layer 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage and bacon.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and ranch dressing mix.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
Top and Bake
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm for a hearty breakfast that satisfies every craving.
Pro Tips and Tricks
Customization Ideas
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage and bacon for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace hash browns with riced cauliflower.
- Extra Spice: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Make-Ahead Directions
- Refrigerator Prep: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Bake fresh in the morning for the best results.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble and freeze the unbaked casserole. When ready to serve, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with:
- Fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Toast or biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast.
- Coffee, tea, or orange juice to complete the meal.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
This casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with protein and essential nutrients that provide energy and keep you full throughout the day.
Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 400IU
- Calcium: 200mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQs
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Yes! Grate fresh potatoes, soak them in cold water to remove excess starch, then dry them thoroughly before using.
1. Add chopped green onions or herbs like parsley for a fresh touch.
2. Incorporate different cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for unique flavors.
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free ranch dressing mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. With its rich layers of flavor and satisfying texture, it’s the perfect choice for a comforting breakfast or brunch. Plus, its make-ahead convenience means you can enjoy a stress-free morning with minimal cleanup.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to savor a dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. Share it with loved ones, and don’t forget to let us know how it turned out!
More Relevant Recipes
Print
Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and savory dish made with sausage, bacon, hash browns, and ranch-seasoned eggs. Perfect for brunch or meal prep, it’s an irresistible comfort food that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 package (28 oz) frozen hash browns
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the hash browns: Evenly spread the frozen hash browns across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Add the sausage and bacon: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage and bacon over the hash browns to create a savory layer.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage and bacon.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and ranch dressing mix until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ingredients in the baking dish.
- Add more cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Customize Your Protein: Don’t love sausage or bacon? Substitute with diced ham, turkey sausage, or even plant-based alternatives.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, green chilies, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a kick of heat.
- Use Fresh Hash Browns: If you prefer, swap frozen hash browns for freshly grated potatoes. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/8 of the casserole)
- Calories: 380kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: Breakfast casserole with sausage and bacon, Cheesy hash brown casserole, Easy breakfast bake recipe