Crack Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish to kickstart your day, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a beloved family favorite that never fails to impress. It’s packed with savory sausage, crispy Turkey Bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese, all brought together in a deliciously rich ranch-infused base. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a laid-back weekend brunch with friends, this casserole is perfect for any occasion!

What makes this Crack Breakfast Casserole so special is its effortless preparation and the joy it brings to the table. You can whip it up in just about 20 minutes and let the oven do the rest. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds (and thirds) of this scrumptious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering breakfast ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the flavors of sausage, bacon, and cheese.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and enjoy stress-free gatherings.
• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning and creamy cheeses makes each bite absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole! You probably have most of these items on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 1 pound (450g) beef sausage
• 1 pound (450g) Turkey Bacon, chopped
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 8 large eggs

For Flavoring

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this Crack Breakfast Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or even veggie sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to kick up the heat!

How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef sausage and chopped Turkey Bacon together until they are browned and fully cooked. This step is crucial because it adds depth of flavor to your casserole. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Adding milk and eggs next ensures that everything combines nicely without lumps. Don’t forget to add in your ranch seasoning along with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—this is where all those delicious flavors come from!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in your cooked meats along with the thawed hash browns and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture until everything is evenly incorporated. This mixture will be rich and creamy—just what we want for our breakfast casserole!

Step 4: Bake It Up!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish before pouring in that beautiful mixture. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with aluminum foil to lock in moisture while it bakes.

Step 5: Finish Baking

Bake for about 50–60 minutes covered. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes until you see that lovely golden-brown bubbly cheese on top. This step gives you that irresistibly cheesy finish we all crave.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked to perfection, let your casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing into warm squares. Serve immediately and watch as everyone digs in happily!

Pro Tips for Making Crack Breakfast Casserole

Making a delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole can be even simpler with these handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality cheese enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole, making it a delightful morning treat.
• Customize your meats: Feel free to swap out the sausage or Turkey Bacon for other cooked meats like chicken sausage or turkey sausage to suit your taste preferences.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Simply bake in the morning for an effortless breakfast with minimal fuss!
• Experiment with spices: If you love a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mix for an exciting twist!

How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole

Serving this Crack Breakfast Casserole is as enjoyable as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this dish into a showstopper at any breakfast or brunch gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color on top of your casserole.
• Sour cream dollops: A spoonful of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley not only brightens up the presentation but also adds a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole, making for a balanced plate.
• Buttery croissants: Flaky, buttery croissants are perfect for soaking up any extra ranch dressing or egg mixture, adding another layer of comfort.
• Crispy hash brown patties: For those who can’t get enough of potatoes, crispy hash browns on the side will complement the casserole beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the casserole, creating a delightful balance.

Enjoy your Crack Breakfast Casserole with these personalized touches, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crack Breakfast Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty breakfasts throughout the week with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about making or enjoying this recipe, you’re not alone!

Can I customize the Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even use different types of cheese.

How long does the Crack Breakfast Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this casserole will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep.

Can I make the Crack Breakfast Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that your ranch seasoning and any other ingredients used are certified gluten-free. The hash browns should also be checked for gluten-free labeling.

What’s the best way to serve Crack Breakfast Casserole?

This casserole is fantastic on its own but can be paired with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal. It’s also great topped with salsa or avocado for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Crack Breakfast Casserole! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings people together. Perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!