This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a cozy, hearty dish perfect for mornings. Filled with eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will make anyone smile!
I love making this when I have friends over. It’s so easy to prepare—just mix the ingredients and pop it in the oven. Breakfast served! Plus, the leftovers are fantastic too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds a savory flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try using a meatless sausage substitute.
Eggs: Six large eggs provide a good base. You can substitute with egg whites for fewer calories or use a vegan egg replacer for a plant-based version.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, feel free to use monterey jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese can also be a great alternate for dairy-free diets.
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are super convenient but you can also use freshly grated potatoes. Just make sure to press out excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
Sour Cream: You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or a dairy-free yogurt for a lactose-free alternative.
Green Onions: These add a fresh note but if you’re out, chopped regular onions or shallots can work too. Skip the onions if you prefer a simplified flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Bake Every Time?
To achieve a perfectly baked casserole, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven. Always start with a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
- Use a 9×13-inch baking dish. This size is ideal for even baking and allows the casserole to cook through properly.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check after 40 minutes to avoid overcooking. The casserole should be set and the top golden.
- Let it cool before slicing. This helps the casserole firm up and makes serving easier.
By following these tips, you’ll serve up a delicious breakfast casserole that’s sure to impress!
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (16 oz) bag frozen hash browns (shredded)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon (optional, for topping)
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This Crack Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes to bake, bringing your total to around 1 hour or so. It’s a great dish to make ahead of time or a perfect breakfast for special occasions, making mornings deliciously easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nice and browned. Make sure it’s fully cooked through! Once done, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, grab those eggs and beat them up! Add in the sour cream and cream of chicken soup, stirring until everything is nice and smooth.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to stir in the frozen hash browns, the cooked sausage, and shredded cheddar cheese (don’t forget to save a bit for the top!). If you fancy green onions, toss those in too! Give everything a good mix and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake It Up:
Pour your mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top and pop it in the oven.
6. Let it Bake:
Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden and bubbly. If you’d like, sprinkle the chopped bacon on top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for that crispy touch!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, pull the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make slicing easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if you like, and then serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
This recipe creates a flavorful, creamy, and hearty breakfast that everyone will love. Perfectly baked with crispy toppings, it’s a breakfast winner!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is delicious, you can also use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even leftover ham. For a vegetarian option, consider using a meat substitute designed for breakfast dishes.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven the next morning—add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative or cottage cheese blended until smooth for a similar texture. Dairy-free options include coconut yogurt or cashew cream.