Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a breakfast casserole, especially one that brings a deliciously indulgent experience to the breakfast table. The Crack Breakfast Casserole stands out with its mix of savory flavors and pleasing textures, making it a go-to favorite for lazy weekends or festive gatherings.
This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile, allowing for personal touches that make it your own. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a special breakfast at home, this casserole is sure to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) pork sausage
Sausage adds depth of flavor and a satisfying savoriness to the casserole. Its fat content also helps to keep the dish moist and enhances the richness. - 1 pound (450g) bacon, chopped
Bacon brings a delightful crispiness and smokiness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. It introduces another layer of flavor and elevates the overall taste profile. - 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese lends creaminess to the dish, creating a luxurious texture that melds well with the eggs and makes each bite deliciously rich. - ½ cup (120g) sour cream
Sour cream adds a touch of tanginess while also contributing creaminess. This ingredient balances the richness of the meats and provides depth to the overall flavor. - 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
Whole milk hydrates the egg mixture, making the casserole fluffy and light. It also enhances the creamy mouthfeel of the finished dish. - 8 large eggs
Eggs are the binding agent, and they set the entire casserole as it bakes, providing structure while also contributing protein and richness. - ½ teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder introduces a subtle aromatic flavor that enhances the savory profile without overwhelming the dish. - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a depth of flavor, enhancing the savory aspects and giving the casserole a warm, comforting essence. - ½ teaspoon salt
Salt is crucial for elevating flavors, helping to balance the richness of the meats and the creaminess of the other ingredients. - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Black pepper adds a mild kick and aromatic spice, which complements the richness of the bacon and sausage perfectly. - 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, savory flavor and contributes to the gooey, comforting texture when melted, ensuring every bite is indulgent. - 4 cups (approx. 600g) frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
Hash browns serve as a hearty base for the casserole, providing texture and absorbency that enhances the overall flavor and structure.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven is a critical step that ensures the casserole cooks evenly from the start. Starting with a hot oven allows for proper cooking and helps achieve a bubbly, golden top.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and chopped bacon together until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Cooking the sausage and bacon together allows their flavors to meld, infusing the entirety of the dish with deliciousness. Draining excess fat ensures the casserole does not become greasy.
Step 3: In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
Mixing the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth ensures they incorporate evenly into the egg mixture, providing a rich and cohesive structure to the casserole.
Step 4: Add the milk, eggs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Incorporating the milk and eggs into the mixture is essential for creating a custard-like foundation. This blend should be uniformly mixed for consistent texture throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Stir the cooked meats and hash browns into the mixture until evenly incorporated.
This step is vital to ensure that every bite of the casserole is packed with flavor and texture, evenly distributing the sausage, bacon, and hash browns throughout the dish.
Step 6: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter, then pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
Greasing the baking dish helps prevent sticking, ensuring that when it's time to serve, the casserole comes out easily. An even spread allows for uniform baking.
Step 7: Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the other cup for later.
Adding cheese on top encourages a nice cheesy crust as it bakes. This golden layer will offer a delightful contrast to the soft interior of the casserole.
Step 8: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50–60 minutes.
Covering the casserole allows it to cook through and set without browning too quickly. During this time, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a deliciously savory experience.
Step 9: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Baking uncovered at this stage allows the cheese to melt and develop that rich golden color, providing both visual appeal and enhanced flavor, promising a comforting meal.
Step 10: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Cooling slightly makes the casserole easier to slice and allows the egg to fully set, ensuring each serving holds its shape. Serving it warm enhances the dish's overall comforting indulgence.
The Inspiration Behind the Casserole
The Crack Breakfast Casserole gets its name from its addictive flavor profile that has captured the hearts of brunch enthusiasts everywhere. Combining the richness of meats, cream cheese, and melting cheese, it's a dish that brings forth warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows for personal customization with various add-ins, making it perfect for any taste.
Perfect Pairings for the Casserole
While this breakfast casserole is a standout dish on its own, serving it with a fresh fruit salad or a light salad can create a well-rounded brunch experience. The brightness from the fruit contrasts beautifully with the richness of the casserole, making each bite a harmonious balance of flavors, ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Pro Tips for the Best Crack Breakfast Casserole
To enhance the flavor further, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions into the meat mixture. Opting for freshly grated cheese can also boost the flavor profile, highlighting a more robust cheese experience. Lastly, allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving enables the layers to settle, making it easier to cut uniform servings.
FAQs
What if my casserole is too dry after baking?
If your casserole turns out too dry, consider covering it next time during part of the baking process to trap moisture, or adding a bit more liquid (milk or cream) to the egg mixture.
Can I add vegetables into the casserole?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly before adding.
What if my cheese doesn’t melt well on top?
If your cheese doesn’t melt as expected, it may help to cover the casserole for the first half of baking, allowing it to melt without browning too quickly.
Can I substitute the sausage for a different meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage can serve as excellent alternatives, keeping the overall flavor while offering different options.
What kind of hash browns work best for this recipe?
Frozen hash browns are ideal for convenience and texture. Opt for shredded hash browns for that classic crunchy base.
Is it okay to prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, preparing it the night before is a great idea. Just assemble it and store it in the fridge, then bake it fresh the next morning.
Conclusion
The Crack Breakfast Casserole is a remarkable blend of flavors and textures, making it a staple for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Its ease of preparation, combined with its satisfying taste, ensures it will become a cherished recipe in your home.
Whether shared with friends during a gathering or enjoyed on a cozy weekend morning, this casserole promises to deliver warmth and happiness to the table.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.