Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread all baked together into one delicious morning meal. It’s the kind of breakfast that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering smells and wakes everyone up in the best way.
I love making this casserole on weekend mornings when we have extra time to relax and enjoy brunch with family or friends. What makes it so special is how everything soaks up the eggs and cheese, creating a rich, gooey texture that’s comforting and satisfying. Honestly, it’s hard to stop at just one slice!
My favorite way to serve this casserole is straight out of the oven, with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance all that cheesy goodness. It’s a sure-fire winner for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you want an easy, filling meal that feels like a little celebration.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds a spicy, savory flavor. If you want a leaner option, try turkey sausage or even cooked ground chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based sausage crumbles.
Eggs & Cottage Cheese: Eggs give structure, while cottage cheese adds creaminess and moisture. If you don’t have cottage cheese, plain ricotta or Greek yogurt work well too.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste and nice melt. You can swap it with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mild cheddar if preferred.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns help bulk up the casserole and give a tender texture. Fresh grated potatoes can be used if you prefer, just squeeze out extra moisture first.
Bacon & Green Onions: Bacon adds smoky crunch on top, but feel free to leave it out or replace with cooked ham or chives for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cheesy, Set Casserole Without Overcooking?
Making sure the casserole is cooked through but still moist can be tricky. Follow these tips for success:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Whisk eggs well with cottage cheese for smooth texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; spread ingredients evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before cutting to finish setting up.
These steps help avoid a rubbery texture and keep the casserole creamy and tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the ingredients and bake evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – for whisking eggs and mixing all ingredients smoothly.
- Skillet or frying pan – to cook the sausage before adding it to the casserole.
- Whisk – helps blend the eggs and cottage cheese well for a creamy texture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for folding in the hash browns and other ingredients gently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for diced ham or cooked bacon for a different protein flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for a veggie boost and extra texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale to sneak in some greens without changing the taste much.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (6 oz + 2 oz for topping)
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen hash browns, thawed and drained
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup diced cooked bacon (optional, plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40-45 minutes to bake. After baking, allow 5 minutes for the casserole to rest before serving. So, plan for roughly 1 hour total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Cook the Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well with butter or cooking spray. Then, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until it’s all browned and cooked through. Break it into small pieces while it cooks. Once done, drain any extra grease and set the sausage aside.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, then mix it all well until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, chopped green onions, and half of the diced bacon (if using) to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together so it’s evenly combined.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps it finish setting and makes it easier to slice. Before serving, sprinkle on some extra cooked bacon and chopped green onions for a fresh, tasty touch. Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it for 45-50 minutes or until fully set and golden on top.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions. Just sauté any veggies first to remove excess moisture before folding them in.