Crack Breakfast Casserole

Crack Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish to start your day off right! This hearty breakfast option combines savory beef sausage, Turkey Bacon, and cheddar cheese, all mingled with creamy ranch flavors and crispy hash browns. It’s a versatile dish suitable for brunches, family gatherings, or even meal prep for a busy week ahead. You’ll love the ease of preparation and the delightful taste that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep work, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of beef sausage, Turkey Bacon, and ranch seasoning creates a delicious taste that pleases any palate.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfectly portioned to serve 12, it’s an excellent option for preparing in advance and reheating later.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or even as a comforting dinner option.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for gatherings, this casserole is sure to impress guests and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Crack Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need some essential tools on hand. These will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Necessary for browning the sausage and Turkey Bacon evenly.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when blending cream cheese with eggs and seasonings.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

Meat Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) beef sausage
• 1 pound (450g) Turkey Bacon, chopped

Creamy Base

• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk

Eggs & Cheese

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Hash Browns & Seasonings

• 1 (30-ounce/850g) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
• 1 (1-ounce/28g) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef sausage and chopped Turkey Bacon until browned. Ensure they are fully cooked before draining any excess fat. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with sour cream until smooth. Then add whole milk, eggs, ranch seasoning mix, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked meats along with thawed hash browns and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Ensure everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or oil. Pour your mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Cover & Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 8–10 minutes to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Once done baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm for an unforgettable breakfast experience!

How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole

This delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins to bake individual servings. This makes for easy serving and a fun presentation.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• Pair with a light and refreshing fruit salad. A mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds brightness to your plate.

Toasted Bagels

• Serve with toasted bagels spread with cream cheese or avocado. This adds a delightful crunch and pairs well with the casserole.

Green Salad

• A simple mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a nice balance to the richness of the casserole.

Hot Sauce or Salsa

• Offer hot sauce or salsa on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick. This complements the savory flavors of the dish.

Coffee or Juice

• Complete your breakfast spread with coffee or fresh juice. A classic pairing that helps wake up your taste buds!

How to Perfect Crack Breakfast Casserole

Achieving the best Crack Breakfast Casserole is easy with a few helpful tips. Here’s how you can elevate your dish:

• Choose high-quality sausage: Using premium beef sausage enhances flavor and texture, making your casserole even more satisfying.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set properly, making slicing easier without falling apart.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for added flavor complexity.
• Add veggies: Incorporating sautéed bell peppers or spinach into the mix adds nutrition and color to your casserole.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking and adjust spices as needed. Personalizing flavors ensures everyone enjoys it.
• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for easy reheating later.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Breakfast Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Crack Breakfast Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Hash Browns: Serve additional crispy hash browns for those who love that golden crunch alongside their casserole.
2. Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices provide a creamy contrast and healthy fats that complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
3. Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait layered with granola and fruit offers a sweet contrast, balancing out the savory dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your breakfast table while enhancing flavor variety.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Serve warm cornbread muffins on the side for a Southern twist that pairs beautifully with this casserole.
6. Mini Quiches: Mini quiches filled with vegetables or cheese can be an excellent addition, offering variety in taste and texture at breakfast.
7. Fruit Smoothies: Blend up some smoothies using favorite fruits for a refreshing drink option that complements your meal nicely.
8. Breakfast Potatoes: Seasoned breakfast potatoes provide another hearty side that’s always a crowd-pleaser at brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crack Breakfast Casserole can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Be aware of these missteps to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly.

• Using Frozen Ingredients Directly: Always thaw and drain frozen hash browns before using them. This prevents excess moisture in your casserole.
• Overmixing the Egg Mixture: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a rubbery texture. Stir gently to keep it fluffy.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allow your casserole to rest after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your egg mixture before baking. Adjust salt and seasoning based on your preference for the best flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Crack Breakfast Casserole

• Freeze in a tightly sealed container or wrap portions in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crack Breakfast Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm, checking every 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Crack Breakfast Casserole?

A Crack Breakfast Casserole is a savory dish made with beef sausage, turkey bacon, eggs, cheese, and hash browns, all baked together for a hearty breakfast.

Can I customize my Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach or swap out meats based on your preferences.

How do I prevent my casserole from being soggy?

Ensure you thaw and drain the hash browns thoroughly. Also, avoid adding too much liquid to maintain a balanced texture.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. Just add extra time to bake when ready.

How do I store leftovers of Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

The Crack Breakfast Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for brunches or breakfast meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own!