This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Packed with savory sausage, crispy bacon, hash browns, and a creamy egg mixture, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make and guaranteed to disappear fast. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s no wonder this casserole has earned its addictive nickname!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 45–50 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour
Servings
- 8–10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (1½ cups + ½ cup)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 package (28 oz) frozen hash browns (shredded or diced), thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Base
- Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage over the hash browns.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the sausage layer.
- Add 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meat layer, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and ranch dressing mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring it spreads to all edges.
Step 4: Add the Final Touch
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for an extra cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes , or until the eggs are set, the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- To check doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Cut into squares and serve warm. Pair with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for added flavor if desired.
Pro Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Customize: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Swap sausage for ground turkey or ham if preferred.
- Cheese Options: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a one-dish wonder that combines all your favorite breakfast flavors into a single, satisfying meal. The creamy egg mixture, crispy hash browns, savory sausage and bacon, and gooey melted cheese create layers of texture and taste that are simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.
Ready to whip up this addictive breakfast dish? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, hearty casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite—it’s comfort food at its finest!
