If you are on the hunt for a dish that combines savory meats, creamy cheeses, and the perfect touch of ranch seasoning, look no further than the beloved Crack Breakfast Casserole. This decadent breakfast treat is loaded with crispy bacon, flavorful pork sausage, tender shredded hash browns, and rich cheddar, all baked into a fluffy, golden masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on a lazy weekend morning or want a satisfying meal prep option, this casserole is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s comforting, hearty, and absolutely irresistible from the very first bite.

Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might sound straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect fusion of flavors and textures in the Crack Breakfast Casserole. From juicy sausage to creamy cheese and fluffy eggs, every component works together to deliver that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Pork sausage: Adds juicy savoriness and rich heartiness to the dish; fresh sausage is best for maximum flavor.
Bacon, chopped: Offers salty crunch and crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling.
Cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, velvety base that binds everything beautifully.
Sour cream: Introduces a subtle tang and extra creaminess enhancing the overall richness.
Whole milk: Helps create a soft, custard-like texture for the eggs and other ingredients.
Large eggs: Provide structure and make this casserole a true breakfast centerpiece.
Shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy delight, giving the top a golden, bubbly finish.
Frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained: Offer a hearty base with a pleasant texture, absorbing all the flavorful juices.
Dry ranch seasoning mix: Packs in bold herb and spice notes that elevate the flavor profile deliciously.
Onion powder: Adds a slight sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
Garlic powder: Brings savory warmth that complements the meats and cheese.
Salt: Enhances every other ingredient’s taste perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper: Delivers just the right amount of aromatic heat to balance the richness.

How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meats

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the pork sausage together with the chopped bacon until both are nicely browned and fully cooked. This step develops incredible flavors and textures, with the bacon turning crispy and the sausage juicy. Make sure to drain off any excess fat so your casserole isn’t greasy, then set the meats aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This smooth base will give the casserole a velvety texture. Then add the whole milk, eggs, dry ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and slightly fluffy. This rich custard binds all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now gently fold the cooked sausage and bacon, thawed and drained hash browns, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. This step distributes all those wonderful flavors and textures throughout the casserole, ensuring every bite delivers that perfect mix of meat, cheese, and potatoes.

Step 4: Assemble the Crack Breakfast Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving later. Pour the combined mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Then top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese—this will melt and form that irresistible golden crust everyone loves.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. This allows the casserole to cook evenly and the eggs to set nicely. After removing the foil, bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes to let the cheese on top bubble and brown to a beautiful golden finish. The aroma during this time will be simply heavenly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baked, allow your Crack Breakfast Casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up for clean slices that hold together perfectly. Serve it while warm for the ultimate comfort food experience that gets everyone coming back for seconds.

How to Serve Crack Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

The best part about serving this casserole is all the ways you can elevate it with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped scallions or fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. For those who like a little kick, a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on each slice pairs beautifully with the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

Pair your Crack Breakfast Casserole with a bright fruit salad to balance the richness or serve alongside warm, freshly brewed coffee for a cozy brunch. Cinnamon rolls or a light green salad also make delightful companions, creating a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or just add a touch of flair? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions, or keep it classic by plating slices with colorful vegetable sides. You can also jazz it up by layering in sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach right in the casserole before baking for extra nutrition and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your leftovers fresh, let the casserole cool fully. Then transfer portions into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for quick breakfasts or lunches during the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. For a faster option, microwave individual portions, although the texture is a bit better reawakened in the oven.

FAQs

Can I prepare Crack Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it well, and refrigerate it. Then simply bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it can be gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free certified ranch seasoning and hash browns. Always check your product labels to be sure.

What vegetables can I add to the casserole?

Diced bell peppers, onions, or baby spinach are great additions. Just make sure to cook and drain them properly to avoid adding excess moisture.

How long will leftovers keep?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers will stay fresh for up to four days. Always reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.

Can I substitute the meats in the Crack Breakfast Casserole?

Of course! Turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage options work well for a lighter or pork-free version. You can also omit bacon if you prefer a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crack Breakfast Casserole truly feels like a warm hug on a plate—a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will brighten your mornings and please any crowd. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, it’s easy to make, customizable, and endlessly satisfying. Go ahead and give this recipe a try; it might just become your new favorite breakfast tradition!

Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 17 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and delicious breakfast casserole combining savory pork sausage, crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and shredded hash browns with a flavorful ranch seasoning blend. This make-ahead dish is perfect for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or meal prep, with a golden, bubbly cheese topping and a rich, custardy texture.

Instructions

Cook the Meats: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the pork sausage and chopped bacon together until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness and set aside on paper towels to absorb remaining fat.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth using a hand mixer or whisk. Add the whole milk, eggs, dry ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined into a custard-like mixture.
Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked sausage and bacon, thawed and well-drained shredded hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Ensure all components are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in each bite.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish. Pour the combined mixture evenly into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy, golden finish.
Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness at the 50-minute mark. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbling and golden brown.
Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set properly. Slice into portions and serve warm, optionally topped with hot sauce, chopped scallions, or extra sour cream as desired.

Notes

Make ahead by assembling the casserole the night before, covering it tightly, and refrigerating; bake fresh in the morning for convenience.
For added nutrition and flavor, mix in cooked and drained diced bell peppers, onions, or baby spinach into the egg mixture before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in oven or microwave before serving.
This casserole freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze up to 2 months, thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
Use certified gluten-free ranch seasoning and hash browns to keep this dish gluten-free friendly.
For a lighter variation, substitute pork sausage with turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage and omit bacon if desired.
To achieve a crispier cheese topping, place the casserole under the broiler for a couple of minutes right before serving, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Drain cooked meats well to prevent a greasy casserole.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12th of casserole)
Calories: 410 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 630 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 230 mg

Keywords: breakfast casserole, crack breakfast casserole, sausage casserole, bacon casserole, ranch seasoning, brunch recipe, make ahead breakfast, hash brown casserole, cheesy breakfast bake