Crack Breakfast Casserole

This breakfast casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with hearty sausage, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and savory hash browns. It offers a satisfying start to any morning, perfect for lazy weekends or holiday brunches when you want something comforting and easy to share.

I made this the first time for a family reunion and the dish disappeared so fast it turned into a new tradition everyone asks for every year

Gather Your Ingredients

• One pound pork sausage: for juicy and flavorful meat base choose good quality sausage with balanced seasoning
• One pound chopped bacon: adds a smoky crunch thick-cut bacon works best for texture
• Four ounces softened cream cheese: creates a creamy layer that ties all flavors together
• Half cup sour cream: enriches the custard for smoothness and slight tang full fat recommended
• One cup whole milk: balances richness and helps bind ingredients avoid skim for best texture
• Eight large eggs: provide the structure and protein needed to hold the casserole
• Two cups shredded cheddar cheese: gives sharpness and meltiness freshly grated cheese melts better
• One 30-ounce bag frozen shredded hash browns: provides hearty texture and convenience fully thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture
• One packet dry ranch seasoning mix: infuses herbaceous flavor effortlessly
• Half teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder: enhances savory notes
• Half teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: rounds out seasoning

How to Make It

Sauté the Meats:

In a large skillet over medium high heat, cook the pork sausage and chopped bacon together until browned and fully cooked through. This step renders fat and builds a flavorful base. Drain excess fat carefully then set the meats aside to cool slightly.

Mix the Creamy Custard:

In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream using a whisk or electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Add the whole milk and crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking steadily between additions. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all the elements evenly.

Combine with Solids:

Fold the cooked meats into the creamy egg mixture. Next add the thawed and drained hash browns along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently but completely so every bite has a good amount of each ingredient.

Prepare for Baking:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Pour the entire mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top to create a beautifully melted crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Then carefully remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Rest and Serve:

Allow the casserole to rest for several minutes so it can firm up and be sliced neatly. Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite breakfast sides or fresh fruit.

Cheddar cheese is my favorite part because it melts into small pockets of gooey bliss that contrast perfectly with crispy bacon. One Christmas morning my family gathered around this dish and the smiles said it all. It is more than just food it’s a tradition in a pan.

Flavor Boosters

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain the texture. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with fresh fruit like berries or melon for refreshing balance Serve alongside warm biscuits or toasted English muffins for extra indulgence Top with chopped green onions or fresh herbs to brighten the rich flavors

Creative Twists

Swap pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for slightly tangier taste and extra protein Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder melting cheese Try sweet potatoes in place of hash browns to add sweetness and nutrients

This casserole is a reliable crowd favorite perfect for brunch or special occasions delivering hearty flavor and satisfying textures every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this breakfast casserole in advance?

Yes, the casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh the next morning for best results.

→ What can I add for extra vegetables?

Bell peppers, spinach, or diced onions work well when added to boost nutrition and flavor in the casserole.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

→ Can I substitute ingredients for a lower-calorie version?

Try using turkey sausage, reduced-fat cheese, or less cream cheese to reduce calories while keeping satisfying flavors.

→ What type of cheese is best for topping?

Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a flavorful, golden crust when baked atop the casserole.