Crack Breakfast Casserole is a comfort-filled morning favorite that brings together fluffy eggs, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and tender bread cubes all baked into one easy dish. The name might sound fancy, but it’s really just a simple combination of breakfast classics that come together beautifully in the oven.
I love making this casserole for weekends when we have a crowd or want a no-fuss meal that everyone enjoys. It’s easy to prepare the night before and pop into the oven in the morning, which saves me precious time. Plus, the cheesy, bacon-packed layers always get plenty of “ooohs” and “ahhhs” from the family.
One of my favorite ways to serve it is with a side of fresh fruit or a light green salad to balance all the richness. It’s the kind of dish that feels cozy and satisfying, perfect for relaxing breakfasts that stretch into brunch. If you haven’t tried it yet, I think you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious this casserole turns out.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This gives the casserole a nice savory flavor. You can swap pork sausage for turkey sausage to make it leaner, or use plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Eggs: Eggs provide structure and fluffiness. Always use fresh eggs for the best texture. For a lighter version, you can replace some whole eggs with egg whites.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy, melty layer. You can try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese if you want a milder taste. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese shreds.
Bread Cubes: Day-old white or sourdough bread works best to soak up the egg mixture without turning mushy. If gluten-free, use gluten-free bread cubes instead.
Half-and-Half or Milk: Half-and-half makes it richer and creamier, while whole milk keeps it lighter. For lactose-free needs, use almond milk or oat milk in the same quantity.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture in a Breakfast Casserole?
The key to a great texture is balancing moistness with structure. Here’s how:
- Use day-old bread cubes so they absorb the egg mix without becoming soggy.
- Whisk eggs and milk (or half-and-half) thoroughly for an even custard.
- Cook sausage fully and drain fat to avoid greasy casserole.
- Layer cheese both under and over the egg mixture to hold everything together.
- Bake uncovered so the top turns golden and slightly crispy.
- Let the casserole rest after baking; it sets up and becomes easier to cut.
Following these tips will give you a casserole that’s creamy, fluffy, and nicely set—not dry or too wet.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I prefer this size because it’s just right for serving a family or small group.
- Skillet – for cooking the sausage; a nonstick or cast-iron skillet works well and is easy to clean.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking eggs and preparing the ingredients; a large one is best for easy mixing.
- Whisk – to blend eggs, milk, and seasonings smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately for consistent results.
- Cooking spray or butter – to lightly grease the baking dish so the casserole doesn’t stick.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Different proteins: Swap sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or cooked ground turkey for variety.
- Cheeses: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Swiss cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost veggies and texture.
- Spices and herbs: Mix in a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups bread cubes (white or sourdough, preferably a day or two old)
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Butter or nonstick spray, for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40-50 minutes to bake. Add around 5-10 minutes to let the casserole rest before serving. In total, expect to spend about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausage and Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or milk), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole Layers:
Evenly spread the bread cubes in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layers to soak the bread. Then, finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top, and scatter the chopped chives or green onions over everything.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40-50 minutes until it is puffed up, golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with extra chopped chives or green onions, serve warm, and enjoy a delicious, cheesy breakfast treat!
Can I Make Crack Breakfast Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it as directed—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage or Bread?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage and bread before using. For sausage, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For bread, thaw at room temperature or toast lightly if slightly stale.
What Can I Substitute for Half-and-Half?
If you don’t have half-and-half, whole milk works well for a lighter casserole. For a richer result, you can use heavy cream. Non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can also be used but may slightly change the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the casserole moist and delicious.
