Name: Crack Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage; 1 cup cooked and chopped bacon; 1 package (30 oz) frozen hash browns; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Ever had a breakfast that made you want to roll out of bed faster than your alarm clock can blink? That’s the magic of this Crack Breakfast Casserole. Loaded with savory sausage, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, it delivers everything you crave in a morning meal—in one easy, make-ahead dish.

Whether you’re feeding a weekend crowd, prepping for a holiday brunch, or just want something that reheats beautifully for weekday mornings, this casserole checks all the boxes. The name might be cheeky, but the flavor is seriously addictive. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a hit at every breakfast table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Crack Breakfast Casserole, you don’t need fancy equipment, but a few essential tools will make the process smoother:

9×13-inch baking dish: This is your casserole’s home. Its size allows the ingredients to cook evenly and ensures that delicious crust forms on the edges.
Mixing bowls: Use large bowls to mix the eggs, cheese, and cream mixture. A deep bowl helps prevent splashes.
Whisk: Crucial for beating the eggs and mixing in the seasonings until everything is light and well-combined.
Skillet: Needed to cook the sausage and bacon to perfection. A cast iron skillet gives a nice browning, but any non-stick pan works.
Spatula or slotted spoon: Ideal for transferring cooked meat to the casserole without excess grease.
Aluminum foil: Helps cover the casserole while baking so it doesn’t brown too quickly before the center sets.

These tools aren’t just about convenience—they’re about making each layer of this dish shine. Using the right skillet brings out more flavor from your meats, and a proper whisk ensures every bite has that fluffy eggy goodness.

Ingredients for the Crack Breakfast Casserole

Eggs: The heart of any breakfast casserole, eggs bind everything together and deliver that creamy texture.
Cooked bacon: Adds smoky crunch and savory depth. Use crispy pieces for best results.
Breakfast sausage: Provides that bold, meaty flavor. Crumbled and browned sausage infuses richness into the entire dish.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp, and golden, cheddar is key for flavor and gooeyness.
Cream cheese: Adds a tangy, rich layer that makes every bite luxurious.
Heavy cream or milk: Keeps the eggs soft and custardy. Heavy cream makes it extra decadent.
Frozen hash browns: These form a starchy, golden base layer that holds everything together.
Green onions: For freshness and a gentle bite to cut through the richness.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the eggs and bringing the flavors together.

How To Make the Crack Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Meats

Cook the bacon until crisp, then drain and chop. In the same skillet, brown the sausage until no longer pink. Set both aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Build the Base

Spread frozen hash browns in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for base seasoning.

Step 3: Layer in the Flavor

Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, then follow with dollops of softened cream cheese. Add the crumbled bacon and a generous handful of shredded cheddar.

Step 4: Whisk and Pour

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole layers.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.

How to Serve and Store This Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set. Pair it with a side of fruit or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded brunch.

Storing leftovers? This dish keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze individual portions for quick weekday breakfasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this?

You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.

Can I use turkey sausage instead?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works great here.

What if I don’t have hash browns?

You can substitute with cubed bread, tater tots, or even leftover roasted potatoes.

Can I make it without cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture will be less creamy. You can replace it with more shredded cheese or a ricotta blend.

How do I know it’s done baking?

The center should no longer jiggle and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

With a few tweaks (omit hash browns, use full-fat dairy), it can be adapted for a low-carb diet.

Want More Breakfast Casserole Ideas?

Craving more cozy, filling breakfasts? You might love the Mississippi Sin Quiche for a creamier, slightly tangy twist.

If you want something with a seafood spin, check out the Easy Seafood Casserole, perfect for brunches with flair.

For a fun Tex-Mex morning bake, try the Taco Bake Casserole. It’s zesty and crowd-pleasing.

Need something ultra-comforting? The Amish Country Casserole is a nostalgic favorite.

And if you’re into potatoes for breakfast, the Air-Fried Potato Wedges make a perfect crunchy side to go along.

For even more breakfast and brunch inspo, check out my Pinterest page: LadyPlate on Pinterest

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your breakfast boards for later. Just hit the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you swap in spicy sausage? Did you try it with tots? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious to hear how others put their spin on it.