Crack Breakfast Casserole is one of those dishes that’s an absolute crowd-pleaser, especially when you want a big, satisfying breakfast or brunch. It’s loaded with eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread—all baked together into a warm, cozy casserole that’s easy to slice and serve. The melted cheese and crispy edges make every bite flavorful and comforting.
I love making this casserole on weekends when I have a little extra time in the morning, but it’s also perfect for feeding a group without fuss. One of my favorite things about it is how simple it is to prep ahead of time—you can assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. That way, you get a hot, fresh breakfast without any stress.
Serving this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad always feels just right to me. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, sparking good conversation and smiles. I’ve found that once you try this, it quickly becomes a go-to recipe for easy mornings and special occasions alike.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds a lot of flavor and protein. Pork sausage is classic, but turkey sausage is a leaner alternative I like. You can also try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Eggs: They bind the casserole and give it that fluffy, rich texture. For a lighter dish, you can use egg whites or egg substitutes, but whole eggs give the best flavor.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns work great for convenience and texture. If you can’t find them, diced potatoes work too—just cook them first so they’re tender.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy taste and melts well. You can swap it with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a milder or creamier flavor.
Milk: Regular milk keeps the casserole creamy. You can substitute with almond, soy, or oat milk if you prefer dairy-free, just avoid sweetened versions.
Bread (Optional): Adds texture and helps soak up the egg mixture. Use any bread you like—white, whole wheat, or even a crusty French bread. Stale bread works well too.
How Can You Make Sure the Casserole Bakes Evenly and Sets Perfectly?
Getting the egg mixture cooked through without drying out the casserole is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat the oven fully to ensure even baking right from the start.
- Use a 9×13-inch dish so the casserole isn’t too thick. This helps it cook all the way through without the top getting overdone.
- Mix the eggs and milk well to create a uniform custard that helps everything set smoothly.
- Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes—start checking around 30 minutes if your oven runs hot.
- Look for a firm but slightly springy center; a knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the casserole finish setting and makes it easier to cut.
Following these steps, you’ll get a moist, fully cooked casserole with gooey melted cheese and no raw eggs or soggy spots.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold the casserole evenly for thorough baking.
- Large mixing bowl – to whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings comfortably.
- Frying pan or skillet – for browning the sausage before adding it to the casserole.
- Whisk – helps blend the eggs and milk smoothly without lumps.
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon – to gently fold the ingredients together without breaking the bread cubes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage with cooked bacon or ham for a different smoky flavor I enjoy on busy mornings.
- Add diced bell peppers or onions for a fresh, crunchy bite and a pop of color.
- Use pepper jack cheese to add a mild spicy kick that livens up the dish.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness when you want a veggie boost.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cubed bread (optional, for added texture)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time cooking the sausage and mixing everything, then the oven does the rest of the work. Don’t forget to let it cool for a few minutes before serving—easy and hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any extra grease and set the sausage aside.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, cubed bread if using, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture until evenly combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, then cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, hearty breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Without Thawing?
It’s best to thaw frozen hash browns before adding them to the casserole to avoid extra moisture, which can make the casserole soggy. Just leave them in the fridge overnight or thaw quickly in the microwave.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and keep it in the fridge. In the morning, bake it as usual—this makes busy mornings much easier.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Can I Substitute the Breakfast Sausage?
Yes! You can use cooked bacon, ham, or even plant-based sausage as alternatives. Just make sure whatever you choose is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.
