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Easy Crack Breakfast Casserole

This hearty Easy Crack Breakfast Casserole combines savory ingredients into a filling dish that’s perfect for family breakfasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bulk beef breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 6 slices sturdy bread, 1-inch cubed
  • 810 slices thick-cut bacon, 1/2-inch pieces (optional)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 12 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp dry mustard powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
  • 23 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh chopped parsley or chives (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink (8-10 mins). Drain grease and transfer to paper towels. If using, cook the bacon until crispy, drain, and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened (5-7 mins). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
  3. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne until smooth.
  5. Spread the cooked sausage, bacon (if using), and sautéed vegetables over the bread. Sprinkle with 1.5 cups cheddar and 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese.
  6. Pour egg mixture over the layers and press gently. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge 30-60 mins before baking and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
  8. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheeses, and bake uncovered for 25-35 minutes until the center is set and cheese is bubbly golden.
  9. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions or herbs and serve warm.

Notes

Customize with your favorite veggies or switch up the cheeses. Letting the casserole sit overnight results in a creamier texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast, casserole, easy recipe, family meal, savory dish