Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate one-dish morning meal that’s packed with delicious layers of eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread that soak up all the tasty flavors. It’s rich, hearty, and sure to start your day on a good note with its melty cheese and savory sausage tucked inside every bite.
I love making this casserole when I have guests over because it’s so easy to prepare ahead of time and then just pop in the oven when everyone arrives. The best part is how the bread soaks up the egg and sausage goodness, creating a super comforting texture that feels like a warm hug. I always sneak a little extra cheese on top to get that golden bubbly finish that everyone loves.
When I serve this breakfast casserole, I like to pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad to balance the richness. It’s perfect for weekend brunch or holidays when you want something filling but fuss-free. Honestly, it’s one of those dishes that disappears fast, so I always make sure to have plenty for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds a savory, hearty flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try plant-based sausage crumbles.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings strong flavor and melts beautifully. You can use Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier taste. Vegan cheese is also an option if needed.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are convenient and soak up flavors nicely. If you don’t have hash browns, diced potatoes or shredded raw potatoes work too—but parboil them slightly first for even cooking.
Cottage Cheese: It adds creaminess and moisture. You can swap with ricotta or cream cheese for a slightly different texture. Avoid substituting with yogurt as it can affect baking.
Green Onions & Bacon: These provide fresh and smoky notes. Swap green onions with chives or mild red onions if you like. Bacon can be replaced with turkey bacon or omitted for less fat.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Set yet Creamy Casserole?
Balancing a soft, creamy texture with a firm set is key here. Follow these tips:
- Whisk eggs well: Make sure eggs and cottage cheese mix completely for smooth custard consistency.
- Don’t overbake: Bake until edges are golden and center is just set—about 35-40 minutes. Too long and it can dry out.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole cool 5-10 minutes. This rest time helps it firm up for neat slices.
- Use a good baking dish: A cast iron skillet or glass baking dish distributes heat evenly for consistent cooking.
Following these steps results in tender bites packed with melted cheese, savory sausage, and crispy bacon on top. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – gives you plenty of space to whisk eggs and mix all ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs, cottage cheese, and spices into a lump-free mixture.
- Skillet or frying pan – great for browning the sausage before adding it to the casserole.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for stirring and spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for diced ham or cooked bacon for a different savory protein twist.
- Add diced bell peppers or spinach for a fresh veggie boost that adds color and nutrition.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a milder spicy kick, or mozzarella for a gooey melt.
- Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat in your breakfast.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (bulk or removed from casings)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup diced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 35-40 minutes to bake, plus an optional 5-10 minutes to cool before serving. All together, you’re looking at just under an hour for a delicious and hearty breakfast ready to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Cook Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or cast iron skillet. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any extra fat and set it aside.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Stir the thawed hash browns, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked sausage, and diced green onions into the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly so everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish or skillet. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly across the top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the casserole is set and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes to firm up, then garnish with extra green onions. Slice and enjoy warm!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Without Thawing?
It’s best to thaw the hash browns first to avoid excess moisture making the casserole soggy. Simply leave them in the fridge overnight or thaw quickly in the microwave before adding.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Sausage?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or diced ham all work well. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based sausage crumbles or add extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
