Crack Breakfast Casserole: The Ultimate Cheesy, Savory Morning Bake

This insanely addictive breakfast casserole earns its name—packed with eggs, sausage, hash browns, and a triple-cheese blend, it’s so delicious you won’t be able to stop eating it! Perfect for holidays, brunch, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Feeds a crowd – Great for holidays & potlucks
Make-ahead magic – Assemble the night before
Customizable – Swap meats, cheeses, or veggies
Crispy, cheesy perfection – Golden top, fluffy center

Ingredients & Substitutions

Base Recipe

  • 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (or bacon/ham)
  • 4 cups (300g) frozen shredded hash browns
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) milk (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt & pepper

Cheese Trio

  • 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • ½ onion, sautéed
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Meat

  1. Cook sausage in a skillet until crumbled and browned. Drain fat.

2. Layer the Casserole

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread hash browns evenly in the dish.
  3. Top with cooked sausage and any veggies.
  4. Sprinkle with all three cheeses.

3. Make the Egg Mixture

  1. Whisk eggs, milk, and seasonings until smooth.
  2. Pour evenly over the layers.

4. Bake & Broil

  1. Cover and refrigerate overnight (optional for make-ahead).
  2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 mins until set.
  3. Broil 2-3 mins for a golden top.

5. Serve Hot!

  • Garnish with green onions or hot sauce.

Pro Tips

🍳 Extra crispy top: Use thawed hash browns and press them down firmly.
🧀 Cheese blend: Pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
Short on time? Bake immediately (add 5 mins to cook time).

Variations

🌶 Southwest Style: Add diced green chiles + cumin
🍄 Mushroom Lover’s: Sauté mushrooms with the sausage
🥦 Veggie-Packed: Add broccoli or zucchini

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes?

Yes! Shred 2 medium russet potatoes (squeeze out excess moisture).

How long does it keep?

Fridge for 4 days or freeze for 2 months.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage and skip the meat.

Final Thoughts

This Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, hearty, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Perfect for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or anytime you need a crowd-pleaser!

Warning: You’ll be asked for the recipe! 🎄🍳

Leave a Comment