Crack Breakfast Casserole is a deliciously simple dish loaded with eggs, cheese, sausage, and a touch of hash browns that come together in a warm, cheesy, and satisfying morning meal. It’s popular for a reason—the flavors blend perfectly, and it’s such an easy way to feed a crowd or have extra meals ready for busy mornings.
I love making this casserole because it’s nearly foolproof and super flexible. You can add your favorite veggies or swap the sausage for bacon if you like. I usually prepare it the night before, so when I wake up, all I have to do is pop it in the oven. It smells amazing while baking and wakes everyone up with good vibes.
One of my favorite parts about this dish is how well it holds up for leftovers. I like to serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness. It’s always a hit at brunches or holiday mornings, and honestly, it feels like a warm hug in casserole form.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds great flavor and a bit of spice. Feel free to use turkey sausage for a leaner option or even diced ham if you prefer. Cooking it well before baking helps keep the casserole from getting greasy.
Frozen Hash Browns: They give body and texture. You can swap with fresh shredded potatoes if you have the time, but frozen is easy and reliable—just make sure they’re thawed or slightly drained to avoid sogginess.
Eggs: The base that holds everything together. I like using large eggs for consistency. You can add a splash of milk or cream if you want an extra creamy texture, but sour cream in this recipe already keeps it nice and moist.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar and mozzarella make a good flavor combo. Cheddar gives a nice tang and color, while mozzarella adds a milder, melty stretch. You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a kick.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and tenderness. If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute with a similar tang and texture.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. If you don’t have them, finely chopped chives or mild white onions can work.
How Can I Make Sure My Breakfast Casserole Bakes Perfectly?
Baking times and even cooking are key when making this casserole. Here are a few tips:
- Preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Use a 9×13 inch dish so the casserole isn’t too thick or too thin for even heat distribution.
- Don’t cover the casserole while baking—this helps create the golden brown top.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Rest the casserole 5-10 minutes after baking so it firms up and slices cleanly.
Following these simple steps helps avoid undercooked or soggy spots, ensuring your casserole comes out perfectly fluffy and flavorful every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I recommend this size because it spreads the casserole evenly and cooks thoroughly.
- Large skillet – for cooking the sausage; a sturdy pan helps brown it evenly.
- Whisk – makes mixing the egg, sour cream, and seasonings smooth and quick.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient portions, especially for the cheese and seasonings.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop the green onions or any extras you might add.
- Foil or plastic wrap – useful if you want to prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or diced ham for different smoky or meaty flavors.
- Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies and color.
- Use a different cheese combo, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for spice or milder meltiness.
- Spice it up with some diced jalapeños or hot sauce stirred in before baking.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hash browns (shredded)
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Time Needed
This casserole takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 45-55 minutes to bake. You should also allow 5-10 minutes to let it rest after baking before serving. In total, plan for about an hour and a quarter from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink and nicely browned. Drain the excess grease and set the sausage aside.
3. Assemble the Base Layers
Spread the frozen hash browns evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, creating a nice even layer.
4. Mix the Egg and Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in 1 ½ cups of the cheddar cheese, all the mozzarella cheese, and the chopped green onions.
5. Put It All Together
Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the hash browns and sausage layers in the baking dish. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top for a nice cheesy crust.
6. Bake and Rest
Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-55 minutes or until the middle is set and the top is golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes; this helps it set and makes slicing easier.
7. Serve
Garnish with extra chopped green onions if you like, then cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty and delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage or Bacon Instead of Fresh Sausage?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage as long as it’s fully thawed before cooking. For bacon, cook it crisp first and drain the grease well to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it a few extra minutes until hot and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven to keep the texture creamy and moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini with the eggs for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté firmer veggies beforehand to remove excess moisture.
