This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any morning! With layers of eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
I love making this casserole ahead of time; it means I can enjoy my coffee while it bakes. Plus, who doesn’t like breakfast for lunch? Yum! ☕️🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds great flavor and protein! If you want a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use a vegetarian sausage if you’re avoiding meat altogether.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are the base of this casserole. For a lighter option, you can substitute some or all with egg whites or a commercial egg substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. You can use dairy-free cheese as a substitute too!
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are super convenient, but fresh potatoes can be shredded and used instead. By using sweet potatoes, you can add a unique flavor twist!
Sour Cream: This makes the casserole creamy. Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you want to add a bit of protein and cut fat.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
To ensure a perfectly set casserole, follow these simple tips:
- Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly; this helps all parts cook uniformly.
- Check the doneness by gently shaking the dish. If the center jiggles, it needs more baking time.
- Let it cool slightly after baking. This allows the casserole to firm up and makes slicing easier.
These tips will help you serve a beautifully set casserole every time! Enjoy your delicious breakfast creation! 🍳
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed)
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crack Breakfast Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour for a delicious breakfast dish that’s sure to please a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the pan.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs. Add the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This is going to make your casserole rich and creamy!
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to assemble! Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Then, layer the cooked sausage over the hash browns. Pour the egg mixture over everything, allowing it to soak into the hash browns and sausage evenly.
5. Add the Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Get ready for melty goodness!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into the casserole. This little resting time makes it easier to serve!
Enjoy your hearty and cheesy Crack Breakfast Casserole! It’s perfect for big family breakfasts or meal prep for the week ahead. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can swap the breakfast sausage for turkey sausage, bacon, or even a vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meatless option. Just cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge, covered. Just bake it in the morning—add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven.
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes! Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole. You can also pan-fry them for a few minutes before layering.