Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast dish: the crack breakfast casserole! This hearty and comforting casserole is a staple for family gatherings, and I just can’t get enough of it. Whenever we have a special occasion, whether it’s a holiday brunch or a Sunday family get-together, I whip this up, and it never fails to impress. The best part? It fills the house with the most inviting aroma as it bakes, making everyone eager to dig in.
It’s so easy to prepare, which is a plus when you’re juggling multiple dishes. Plus, it’s packed with all the good stuff—eggs, sausage, cheese, and crispy hash browns. Trust me, this dish is not only delicious but also brings everyone together around the table, creating warm memories that we cherish. So, gather your loved ones and let’s dive into this delightful breakfast casserole that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients List
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (you can use whole, low-fat, or even a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (feel free to swap for turkey sausage for a leaner option)
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed (these save you time, but you can also use fresh potatoes if you prefer)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (cheddar gives a great flavor, but any cheese you love will work)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
How to Prepare Crack Breakfast Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden on top. While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and get everything ready. It’s like setting the stage for a wonderful breakfast performance!
Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, crack those 6 large eggs and pour in the 2 cups of milk. Now, grab a whisk (or a fork if that’s what you have) and mix them together until they’re well combined. You want to see a nice, uniform blend with no streaks. This step is easy and fun—just think of it as a little workout for your arms!
Combine the Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add the star players to your egg mixture! Toss in the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I love to mix everything gently but thoroughly. This way, every bite will be bursting with flavor! Using a spatula or a wooden spoon works well for this. Just make sure everything is evenly distributed, so every slice of casserole is delicious!
Pour and Bake
Now, pour that lovely mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly; we want it to bake nicely. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly, I promise!
Cool and Serve
Once it’s done baking, carefully take the casserole out of the oven (don’t forget to use oven mitts!). Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time helps it set a bit more, making it easier to cut into squares. When you’re ready, slice it up and serve it warm. Enjoy every comforting bite with your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your family and less time in the kitchen.
- This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for brunches, holidays, or any gathering where comfort food is needed.
- With its hearty combination of eggs, sausage, and cheese, it’s filling and satisfying for everyone at the table.
- You can prepare it ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for busy mornings.
- It’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or any leftovers you have on hand.
Tips for Success
To ensure your crack breakfast casserole turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this helps everything blend smoothly. If you want to add a bit more flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions or bell peppers before adding them to your mixture. Also, don’t skip greasing the baking dish—it’ll help with easy cleanup and prevent sticking. If you’re short on time, you can assemble the casserole the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. And remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on it as it bakes to avoid overcooking!
Variations on the Crack Breakfast Casserole
The beauty of this crack breakfast casserole is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a veggie boost, consider adding diced bell peppers, fresh spinach, or even some sautéed mushrooms—trust me, they add a lovely flavor and color. If you’re looking to change up the meat, try using diced ham or cooked bacon instead of sausage for a different twist. You can also switch up the cheese; pepper jack adds a delightful kick! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into this delicious crack breakfast casserole, it’s good to know a bit about its nutritional content. Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Typically, one slice of this casserole contains about 350 calories, 25 grams of fat, and 20 grams of protein. You’ll also find around 18 grams of carbohydrates, with 2 grams of fiber. It’s a hearty dish, but it’s also packed with the goodness of protein and comfort that makes breakfast the best meal of the day!
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and it’ll be ready for breakfast!
How should I store leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing it up.
Can I freeze the crack breakfast casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. It should last for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if I don’t have some of the ingredients?
No worries! You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or use any type of cheese you prefer. If you want a vegetarian version, just omit the sausage and add your favorite veggies! The recipe is very forgiving.
Crack Breakfast Casserole: 5 Comforting Servings for Family
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting crack breakfast casserole perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Add the cooked sausage, hash browns, cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the egg mixture.
- Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Use dairy-free milk and cheese for a vegan version.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: crack breakfast casserole, breakfast casserole recipes, easy breakfast casserole
