This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that brings together eggs, cheese, and sausage for a great start to the day. It’s super easy to make, perfect for breakfast lovers!
Whenever I make this, my friends can’t get enough! It’s such a hit that I sometimes wonder if I should hide some in the kitchen just for myself! 😄
I love preparing this casserole the night before. It makes mornings so easy—just pop it in the oven, and soon enough, your home is filled with delicious smells!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: I often use pork sausage, but turkey sausage is a great lighter option too. If you want a vegetarian version, try using a meat substitute or sautéed veggies instead!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its sharp flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. You can even try a dairy-free cheese if you need a vegan option!
Bread: White bread works beautifully for this casserole, but wheat or sourdough can add extra flavor. You can even use leftover baguette or croissants—just cut them into cubes!
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders are essential here, but you can expand the flavor by adding herbs like sage or thyme. Experiment to find your perfect mix!
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Casserole?
For a perfect breakfast casserole, the texture is key. Here’s how to achieve that creamy, fluffy goodness:
- Soak the bread: Letting the bread absorb the egg mixture is crucial. Don’t skip this step! You might even let it sit for a bit after pouring the egg mixture.
- Cover while baking: Starting with foil helps to trap steam, making it moist. Remove the foil towards the end for a crispy finish!
- Check doneness: Use a knife in the center; it should come out clean. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
By paying attention to these details, your casserole will be both delicious and satisfying! Enjoy cooking and sharing this breakfast delight!
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices white bread, cubed (or use frozen bread cubes, thawed)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Time Needed:
This yummy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 1 hour to bake. Give it an additional 5-10 minutes to cool down before serving. So, in total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper together until everything is well blended. This will be the creamy base of your casserole!
3. Layer the Bread:
Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Ensure the bread is nicely covering the whole base to soak up all the flavors.
4. Add the Sausage:
Next, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage over the bread layer. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a hearty bite in every piece!
5. Cheese It Up:
Now sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage and bread. It’s going to be super cheesy and delicious!
6. Pour on the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole, making sure to cover all the ingredients. This is where the magic happens!
7. Finish with More Cheese:
Top everything with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. A little extra cheese never hurts!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This helps to cook the casserole evenly and keeps it moist.
9. Brown the Top:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. You want the top to turn golden brown and the casserole to set nicely. Check that a knife inserted in the center comes out clean!
10. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or green onions if you’d like for a pop of color!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Crack Breakfast Casserole with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
This comforting dish combines a creamy, cheesy egg base with savory sausage and a crispy cheddar crust, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home.
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional, you can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure it’s cubed to ensure it absorbs the egg mixture well.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or swap in different meats like bacon or ham for added flavor. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if you add more moisture!
