Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that combines eggs, cheese, bread, and sausage into one easy-to-make meal. It’s got a perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and meaty flavors that everyone seems to love, making it a great choice for busy mornings or weekend brunches. The layers come together to form a warm, comforting casserole that’s filling and satisfying.
I love making this casserole because it’s so simple to prepare ahead of time and then just pop in the oven when I’m ready. It’s a real crowd-pleaser and always gets people asking for the recipe. The combination of melted cheese and savory sausage is a winner every time, and the fluffy eggs tie everything together in the best way. I usually make a big batch because it’s perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers for the next day.
The best part about Crack Breakfast Casserole is how versatile it is—sometimes I swap the sausage for bacon or add some veggies like bell peppers or spinach to change things up. I like to serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad to add a little brightness to the plate. It’s become one of my go-to dishes when I want a filling breakfast that doesn’t take forever but still feels special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Breakfast Sausage: This gives your casserole lots of flavor and richness. If you want a leaner option, try turkey sausage or even diced ham. For spice lovers, spicy sausage adds a nice kick.
Eggs: Eggs are the binder that holds everything together. Using large eggs gives the right texture. For extra creaminess, you can add an extra yolk or swap one egg for a bit of cream cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor and melts perfectly. You can substitute with mozzarella for milder taste or pepper jack for heat. Using freshly shredded cheese helps avoid clumping.
Bread: White bread soaks up the custard nicely and gets soft without turning mushy. You can try whole wheat or sourdough for extra texture and flavor. Stale bread works well to prevent sogginess.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds moisture and light creaminess. For a richer casserole, swap milk for half-and-half or cream. For dairy-free, try unsweetened almond or oat milk but note it may affect flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Casserole Isn’t Too Dry or Too Soggy?
Getting the right moisture balance is key. Here are some tips to keep it just right:
- Use bread that’s a day or two old or lightly toast it before adding. This helps it soak up the egg mixture without getting soggy.
- Don’t skip draining cooked sausage fat; too much grease will make the casserole oily.
- Press the casserole gently after pouring the eggs to help bread absorb liquid evenly.
- Bake uncovered so excess moisture can evaporate, resulting in a firm but tender texture.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean when set.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy slicing.
- Large mixing bowl – to whisk eggs, milk, and seasonings together smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend the eggs and milk well for a silky custard.
- Skillet – to brown sausage evenly before adding it to the casserole.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage with crumbled bacon or diced ham for a different savory twist.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Mix in diced mushrooms to add a bit of earthiness and moisture.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 8 slices white bread, cubed (or bread crumbs)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time cooking the sausage and mixing the ingredients, then let the oven do the rest. It’s a perfect dish to make ahead for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s fully browned and crumbly. Drain any extra fat and set the sausage aside.
2. Assemble the Layers:
Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the bread. Then, evenly spread the cooked sausage on top of the cheese layer.
3. Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread, cheese, and sausage layers in the casserole dish. Press down lightly to help the bread soak up the egg mixture. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the middle is set, and the top is a beautiful golden color and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives for a fresh touch, then serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Make Crack Breakfast Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for White Bread?
You can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale or toasted lightly so it absorbs the egg mixture well without getting too soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the casserole feels dry.
