Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish for breakfast or brunch—my crack breakfast casserole! Seriously, this is the kind of dish that makes your mornings feel special and cozy. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect way to start your day or impress your friends at a weekend gathering. I love how easy it is to whip up, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a go-to recipe no matter the occasion. Trust me, once you try this crack breakfast casserole, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 6 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups milk, whole or 2% for creaminess
- 4 cups cubed bread, preferably day-old for texture
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sharp for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground if possible
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, for that extra zing
Make sure to measure each ingredient carefully for the best results. I always love using freshly baked bread for the cubes, but day-old works just as well, soaking up all that deliciousness!
How to Prepare Crack Breakfast Casserole
This crack breakfast casserole is so simple to make, and I can’t wait to walk you through it! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is essential because it ensures the casserole cooks evenly and gives that beautiful golden-brown top we’re all after!
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled breakfast sausage for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s nice and browned. Make sure to stir it occasionally. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. I like to start with the eggs and then slowly add in the milk and seasonings for a smooth mixture. It’s like a little dance in a bowl!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked sausage, cubed bread, and shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Stir everything thoroughly until it’s well combined—this is where all those flavors come together beautifully!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish—don’t skip this step, or it’ll stick! Bake it in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps it set a bit more, making slicing easier. Serve it warm, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this crack breakfast casserole is estimated to contain about 350 calories, which makes it a hearty way to start your day. You’ll also get 22g of fat, 20g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. With 2g of sugar and 800mg of sodium, it’s a filling option that satisfies without compromising flavor. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy this delicious dish without guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings!
- Hearty and filling, it keeps you satisfied throughout the day.
- Great for gatherings, everyone will love this comforting dish.
- Can be made ahead of time, just bake it in the morning!
- Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch.
- Leftovers are even better, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
Tips for Success
To make sure your crack breakfast casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, use day-old bread for the best texture; it soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without getting mushy. Also, don’t skip the resting time after baking—this helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice. If you’re looking to pack in even more flavor, consider adding sautéed veggies like bell peppers or onions; they add a lovely crunch and freshness! Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so check for that golden top and a firm center!
Variations on Crack Breakfast Casserole
One of the best parts about this crack breakfast casserole is how easily you can customize it! Want to add a little color and crunch? Toss in some diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach before baking. If you’re a cheese lover like me, try mixing in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can even swap out the breakfast sausage for crumbled bacon or turkey sausage for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover crack breakfast casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before you tuck it away. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is super easy! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the casserole in a baking dish covered with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes. Enjoy your tasty leftovers just like the first time!
For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this French toast delight recipe or this breakfast egg casserole for a quick and tasty option!
Print
Crack Breakfast Casserole: 6 Steps to Morning Perfection
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This crack breakfast casserole is a hearty and delicious dish perfect for any breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the cooked sausage, cubed bread, and cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set and golden brown on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: crack breakfast casserole