If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, the Crack Breakfast Casserole is your answer! This hearty casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings, breakfast-for-dinner nights, or simply when you want a warm, satisfying meal to start your day. Packed with savory ingredients and cheesy goodness, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds!
Why make this recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it can feed a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch parties. Second, it combines popular breakfast ingredients like bacon, eggs, and cheese into one easy-to-make dish. Also, it’s wonderfully versatile—you can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Finally, it’s comforting and delicious, offering a warm and cozy dish that everyone will love.
How to prepare Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, combining everything evenly.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the hash browns, ensuring even coverage.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, whisking until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the casserole, covering all ingredients.
- Use a spatula to gently press down so that the egg mixture soaks into the layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
How to serve Crack Breakfast Casserole
Serve the Crack Breakfast Casserole warm, straight from the oven. It’s great on its own but pairs well with fresh fruit or a side of your favorite breakfast condiments like salsa or hot sauce. Feel free to cut it into squares for easy serving.
How to store Crack Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The casserole can be kept for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to make Crack Breakfast Casserole perfectly
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing for a smoother texture.
- If you like your casserole spicier, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
- For a healthier twist, swap out half of the bacon for diced veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil while baking if you find the top is browning too quickly.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add chorizo or cooked sausage for an extra kick.
FAQ
1. Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they contain more moisture.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Crack Breakfast Casserole
A comforting breakfast casserole packed with bacon, eggs, cheese, and hash browns, perfect for brunch gatherings or a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, combining everything evenly.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the hash browns, ensuring even coverage.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, whisking until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the casserole, covering all ingredients.
- Use a spatula to gently press down so that the egg mixture soaks into the layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 300mg
Keywords: breakfast casserole, brunch, easy recipe, comfort food