Crack Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that brings smiles to the breakfast table, the Crack Breakfast Casserole is just the thing! This hearty casserole combines savory beef sausage, chopped Turkey Bacon, and rich cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a creamy ranch-infused base. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

What I love most about this casserole is how it effortlessly combines flavors and textures, making each bite feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious casserole ready to bake!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the combination of flavors, making it a hit at any breakfast or brunch.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free start to your day.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The mixture of ranch seasoning and cheese creates an irresistible taste that brings everyone back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Crack Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Casserole

• 1 pound (450g) beef sausage
• 1 pound (450g) Turkey Bacon, chopped
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

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

Variations

The beauty of this Crack Breakfast Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
• Try different cheeses: Mix it up with pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist on flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat!

How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Bacon

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef sausage along with the chopped Turkey Bacon until browned and fully cooked. This step is crucial as it builds the savory base of our casserole. Remember to drain any excess fat before moving on!

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, blend together softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Then add in your milk, eggs, ranch seasoning mix, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite is creamy and flavorful.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked sausage mixture along with thawed hash browns and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into your egg mixture. This is where all those delicious flavors come together! Make sure everything is evenly incorporated so each slice has that delightful combination.

Step 4: Bake It Up!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour your mixture in. Spread it out evenly before topping with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Covering with foil during baking helps keep everything moist while allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.

Step 5: Final Touches

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 50–60 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil to let that cheesy goodness bubble up for another 8–10 minutes. Let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out—this helps it set up nicely before slicing.

Enjoy serving this warm Crack Breakfast Casserole at your next breakfast gathering! Each bite is bound to bring joy to those lucky enough to share this meal with you!

Pro Tips for Making Crack Breakfast Casserole

Making this Crack Breakfast Casserole is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality sausage not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a more satisfying texture in the casserole.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set properly, making slicing easier and more appealing.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delicious, consider mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick and depth of flavor.

• Customize with veggies: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or green onions to the mixture for added nutrition and a pop of color that makes your casserole even more inviting.

How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole

This delightful casserole is perfect for gatherings, brunches, or even cozy family breakfasts. Present it warm from the oven, and watch your guests’ faces light up!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness that enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Sour cream dollop: A spoonful of sour cream on each serving adds creaminess and balances the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to the rich casserole, making for a well-rounded breakfast.
• Avocado toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted whole-grain bread complements the casserole’s heartiness while adding healthy fats.
• Breakfast smoothies: A light and nutritious smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk provides a refreshing drink option alongside your meal.
• Roasted potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes bring a crispy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to impress everyone at your breakfast table! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crack Breakfast Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing for a delicious breakfast or brunch option throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’re planning to enjoy it later, slice individual portions for easier reheating.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; label it with the date for reference.
• For best results, consider freezing it before baking, then thaw and bake as directed.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If refrigerated, bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and then follow the same steps.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

What makes Crack Breakfast Casserole so special?

The Crack Breakfast Casserole combines savory sausage, Turkey Bacon, creamy cheese, and ranch seasoning into a delightful dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!

Can I use different types of cheese in my Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Absolutely! While cheddar adds a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor profile slightly.

Is this Crack Breakfast Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This casserole is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. It’s easy to reheat and makes busy mornings much simpler!

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! To create a vegetarian version of this Crack Breakfast Casserole, simply substitute the beef sausage and Turkey Bacon with plant-based sausage or your favorite veggies like bell peppers and spinach.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crack Breakfast Casserole as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on chilly mornings—perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekends. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients; this dish is all about comfort and joy! Happy cooking!

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[Breakfast]