Name: Crack Breakfast Casserole: 7 Simple Steps to Deliciousness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage; 8 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 4 cups shredded hash browns; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped green onions

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Ah, the magic of breakfast casseroles! They hold a special place in my heart, especially during those cozy family gatherings when we all pile around the table, still in our pajamas, sipping coffee and sharing laughs. My go-to dish? This delightful crack breakfast casserole! It’s not just hearty; it’s packed with layers of flavor that create a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for a brunch with friends—it disappeared faster than I could serve it! Trust me, the combination of savory sausage, creamy eggs, and cheesy goodness makes for a breakfast masterpiece that everyone will rave about. So, grab your ingredients and let’s create some delicious memories together!

Ingredients for Crack Breakfast Casserole

1 pound breakfast sausage, removed from casing
8 large eggs, at room temperature
2 cups whole milk, for creaminess
1 teaspoon salt, to enhance flavors
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, for depth
1/2 teaspoon onion powder, to complement the sausage
4 cups shredded hash browns, frozen or fresh
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sharp for extra flavor
1/2 cup chopped green onions, for a fresh finish

How to Prepare Crack Breakfast Casserole

Now, let’s dive into the delicious process of preparing this crack breakfast casserole! I promise it’s easier than you might think. The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this is crucial for achieving that perfect golden top. While that’s heating up, grab a large skillet and cook your breakfast sausage over medium heat until it’s nicely browned, about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep it from getting greasy! Next, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until it’s all well combined. This mixture is where the creamy goodness comes from!

Prepping the Ingredients

To get the best flavor, I like to really focus on the sausage. Make sure to break it up well as it cooks so you get those delicious little bites throughout the casserole. As for the eggs, having them at room temperature helps them mix better and creates a fluffier texture. If you want to add some extra crunch and flavor, feel free to sauté the green onions for a minute or two before adding them to the mix!

Assembling the Casserole

Once everything is prepped, it’s assembly time! Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer the shredded hash browns evenly across the bottom, creating a nice base. Then, sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns, ensuring even distribution. Pour that creamy egg mixture over the top, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and those vibrant green onions. This layering is key for flavor—every bite should have a little bit of everything!

Baking Instructions

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set—no more wobbly jiggle! If you’re not sure, you can poke it with a knife; it should come out clean. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing—this will help it hold together better when serving. Trust me, the wait is worth every delicious bite!

Tips for Success with Crack Breakfast Casserole

To really nail this crack breakfast casserole, I’ve got a few pro tips for you! First, make sure to cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly; this adds incredible flavor and texture. Don’t be shy about seasoning—taste as you go! For even cooking, try to spread the hash browns and sausage evenly in the baking dish. If you want extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture. Lastly, let the casserole rest for those 10 minutes after baking; this helps every slice hold its shape beautifully. You got this!

Variations of Crack Breakfast Casserole

One of the best things about this crack breakfast casserole is how easy it is to customize! For a fun twist, try swapping out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or gouda for a little extra kick. If you’re a veggie lover, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different proteins—turkey sausage or diced ham work wonderfully! For a brunchy flair, add a layer of diced tomatoes or avocados just before serving. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so these numbers are approximate. Typically, each serving of this crack breakfast casserole contains about 350 calories, 25g of fat, 20g of protein, and 18g of carbohydrates. Enjoy this hearty dish while being mindful of portion sizes!

FAQ About Crack Breakfast Casserole

Got questions? No problem! Here are some common ones I hear about this tasty crack breakfast casserole. Can I freeze it? Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months. How do I reheat leftovers? You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. What if I want to substitute ingredients? Feel free to swap the sausage for turkey or plant-based options, and use any cheese you love! Enjoy experimenting!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this crack breakfast casserole! It’s such a crowd-pleaser and perfect for those lazy weekend mornings. If you give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Please leave a comment or a rating—I truly appreciate your feedback!

crack breakfast casserole - detail 1

Crack Breakfast Casserole: 7 Simple Steps to Deliciousness

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A savory crack breakfast casserole featuring layers of flavor and texture, perfect for a hearty morning meal.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the hash browns, followed by the cooked sausage.
Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hash browns.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and green onions on top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top.
Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.