Crack Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, then this Crack Breakfast Casserole is just the thing! Imagine a warm, hearty bake filled with savory sausage, crispy Turkey Bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling and delicious or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a comforting bite. This casserole is not just tasty; it’s a true crowd-pleaser that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. Trust me; once you try this Crack Breakfast Casserole, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just one skillet and a mixing bowl, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-friendly appeal: The delicious combination of flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning!
• Delicious flavor: The ranch seasoning adds an incredible depth of taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Crack Breakfast Casserole is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Casserole

• 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
• 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 recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or veggie sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Cheese choices: Switch up the cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to elevate the flavor even more.

How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef sausage and chopped Turkey Bacon together until browned and fully cooked. This step not only gives flavor but also ensures everything is nice and crispy. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. This creamy base will give our casserole that delightful richness. Next, add in the milk, eggs, ranch seasoning mix, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined—this will be our delicious custard-like filling.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Gently stir in the cooked meats along with thawed hash browns and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into your egg mixture. It’s important to mix well so every bite of your Crack Breakfast Casserole has an equal amount of those yummy ingredients.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour your mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Top it off with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese—it’s going to melt beautifully!

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50–60 minutes. Removing the foil for an additional 8–10 minutes lets that wonderful cheese get bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once baked to perfection, let your casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This helps everything settle down so you can serve warm slices without making too much of a mess!

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Crack Breakfast Casserole

Making the perfect Crack Breakfast Casserole is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use thawed hash browns: Thawed hash browns cook more evenly and absorb flavors better than frozen ones. This ensures a creamy, cohesive texture throughout your casserole.

• Mix well: When combining the egg mixture with the meats and hash browns, make sure everything is fully incorporated. This helps distribute flavors evenly and prevents any dry spots in your casserole.

• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making slicing and serving much easier. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to meld together!

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an added kick. This flexibility allows you to customize the casserole to your taste preferences.

• Make it ahead: You can assemble this casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free breakfast!

How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole

Presenting your Crack Breakfast Casserole beautifully can make any meal feel special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances each bite.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices complement the rich flavors of the casserole while adding healthy fats.
• Fresh salsa or pico de gallo: A spoonful of salsa adds a refreshing kick that balances out the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast, making it a perfect breakfast companion.
• Crispy breakfast potatoes: Seasoned roasted or fried potatoes add that satisfying crunch, offering variety alongside your creamy casserole.
• Green salad with vinaigrette: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed lightly can be a great way to add freshness and balance out your meal.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a sweet side that complements the savory nature of your breakfast casserole.

Enjoy creating this delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole, whether for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts at home! It’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crack Breakfast Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making your mornings a breeze! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure it has completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole.

Can I use different types of sausage in the Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any ground sausage you prefer, such as chicken or turkey sausage, based on your taste preferences.

How can I make the Crack Breakfast Casserole healthier?

You can make it healthier by using reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream, as well as adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients.

Can I prepare the Crack Breakfast Casserole the night before?

Yes! You can assemble everything the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

Is there a way to spice up this Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Definitely! Consider adding jalapeños, diced green chilies, or even some hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick of flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Crack Breakfast Casserole! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings friends and family together around the breakfast table. Enjoy every bite, share with loved ones, and don’t forget to come back and let me know how yours turned out. Happy cooking!

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Breakfast