This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a delightful mix of savory breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, tender hash browns, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, all held together by a creamy egg custard. It’s an effortless yet impressive dish that’s perfect for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or even as a make-ahead breakfast option for the week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Not only does it combine some of the best breakfast staples, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply craving a hearty breakfast, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite. Plus, it can be customized to include your favorite breakfast meats or vegetables, making it as versatile as it is delicious.
Introduction
Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day, and it’s easy to see why! Starting your day with a hearty and satisfying meal sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. This Crack Breakfast Casserole takes traditional breakfast favorites and elevates them into a single dish that can be baked and served with minimal effort. Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of savory sausage, crispy bacon, and melted cheese wafting through your home. This casserole not only feeds your hunger but also nourishes your soul, making it a perfect morning treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 package (28 oz) frozen hash browns
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will form a delicious and crispy base for your casserole.
Step 3: Layer the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage over the hash browns, followed by the crumbled bacon. The combination of these two meats infuses the casserole with wonderful flavors that everyone will love.
Step 4: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage and bacon layers, allowing it to melt beautifully throughout the casserole.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and ranch dressing mix until well combined. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring that all the ingredients are covered. Top off with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese before placing the dish in the oven.
Cooking Note:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until it is set, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges should be slightly golden brown, indicating that it is perfectly cooked.
Suggestions For Presentation:
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing into squares for serving. You can garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the casserole by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make this dish ahead of time by assembling the casserole the night before and storing it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and breakfast is ready!
- Use different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Time Requirements:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 850mg
Conclusion
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting texture, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your breakfast rotation. Whether for a leisurely weekend brunch or a busy weekday, this casserole reminds us that breakfast can be both satisfying and delightful.
Questions and Answers
- Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns, but make sure to cook and drain them first to remove excess moisture. - What other meats can I add to this casserole?
Besides sausage and bacon, you can add diced ham, turkey bacon, or even chorizo for a spicier flavor. - Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the meats with your choice of roasted vegetables or use a meat alternative. You can also add more cheese for extra flavor. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen, adding a bit of time to ensure it heats through.
