I love hosting holiday brunches, but I hate being stuck by the stove flipping pancakes while everyone else is laughing and drinking coffee. I want to be part of the party! This recipe is my "Hostess Hero." This Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast for a crowd. You assemble the hash browns, cheese, and bacon the night before, let the flavors meld, and just pop it in the oven when guests arrive. It allows you to actually enjoy your own party.
This recipe layers shredded potatoes, crispy bacon, sausage, and smooth cream cheese with ranch seasoning mix and a cheesy browned top. It's crazy good! You can prep it the night before, toss it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. That's my kind of breakfast casserole.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Ingredients for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
- My Top Tips for This Recipe
- Little Moments in the Kitchen
- Substitutions for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Variations on Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Equipment for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Storage Tips for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Adam's Tip for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- FAQ about Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Conclusion
- Related
- Pairing
- recipe
Why You'll Love This Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it the night before, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning, perfect for Christmas morning or a do ahead breakfast casserole strategy.
- Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Casserole: Serves 8–10 people easily, making it ideal for hearty brunch gatherings or great brunch recipes lineups.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Frozen hash browns, shredded cheese, and everyday staple ingredients come together in this easy crack breakfast casserole that only takes 20 minutes to prep.
Ingredients for Crack Breakfast Casserole
This pioneer woman crack breakfast casserole starts with layers of shredded hashbrowns, crispy bacon and sausage, and a creamy ranch-flavored base. It's a 5 ingredient breakfast casserole at heart, but you can dress it up with extras if you like. Some people even make a breakfast casserole with potatoes using diced russets instead of hash browns.
What You'll Need
For the Base:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (shredded hashbrowns, thawed)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
For the Egg Custard Binder:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (ranch dressing mix)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Shredded Hashbrowns: They create the perfect base layer and soak up all the flavors from the cream cheese and sour cream base. This crack breakfast casserole with tater tots option works too, just swap in frozen tater tots for a crispier texture.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is what gives the casserole its signature flavor. The ranch seasoning mix adds a savory, tangy kick that makes this crack breakfast casserole with ranch dressing mix absolutely addictive.
- Cream Cheese and Sour Cream Base: Together, they create a rich, creamy layer that binds everything together and keeps the casserole moist and delicious. This breakfast casserole bacon egg cheese combo is unbeatable.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
This overnight crack breakfast casserole is the easiest breakfast casserole I know. You can also turn it into a breakfast casserole crockpot version by cooking it low and slow for 4 hours on low. If you're really short on time, some people even make a breakfast casserole air fryer version in large air fryer baskets, though I prefer the traditional oven method for best results.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the sausage and bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain the excess fat. Do the same with the bacon (or use pre-cooked bacon to save time). This crack breakfast casserole with bacon and crack breakfast casserole with sausage combo is unbeatable. If you want a breakfast casserole bacon version only, just double the bacon and skip the sausage. For a breakfast casserole sausage only version, do the opposite.
- Layer the hash browns. Spread the thawed shredded hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This forms the sturdy base for your best breakfast casserole ever.
- Add the meat and cream cheese. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and crumbled bacon over the hash browns. Scatter the softened cream cheese cubes on top.
- Make the egg custard binder. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning mix, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the custard over the layers. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns, sausage, bacon, and cream cheese. Gently press down with a spatula to help the liquid soak in.
- Top with cheese. Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheddar evenly over the top. This will create a beautiful cheesy browned top once baked.
- Refrigerate overnight (optional). If you're making this as a do ahead breakfast casserole or breakfast casserole ahead of time, cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If baking right away, skip to the next step.
- Bake covered. If baking from cold, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 20 minutes first. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and finish baking. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar on top, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let it rest before serving. Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Hint: If you're short on time, turn this into a quick breakfast casserole simple or easy simple breakfast casserole by using pre-cooked bacon and sausage crumbles from the store. You can also use a breakfast casserole bisquick topping if you want a biscuit-like crust on top.
My Top Tips for This Recipe
Don't skip the step of draining the fat from your cooked sausage and bacon. Excess grease will make the casserole soggy and heavy. For the best make ahead breakfast experience, assemble the night before, cover tightly, and bake fresh in the morning. If you prefer a lighter version, try this weight watchers crack breakfast casserole by using turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, and egg whites. You can even make a breakfast casserole aip (autoimmune protocol) version by using compliant ingredients like sweet potato hash browns, AIP-friendly bacon, and omitting dairy.
Little Moments in the Kitchen
Adam walked into the kitchen while I was layering the hash browns and asked, "Mom, why do they call it 'crack' casserole? Is it bad?" I laughed and explained that it just means people can't stop eating it, it's that good. He looked relieved and then asked if he could help sprinkle the cheese on top. Of course, half the cheese ended up in his mouth instead of on the casserole, but that's part of the fun.
When Grandma Viola stopped by the next morning, she took one look at the golden, bubbly casserole and said, "Now that's a hearty brunch! Back in my day, we called this a ranch hand breakfast casserole because it kept the farmhands full all morning." She was right. Adam had two helpings and still asked for more. This breakfast casserole aesthetic with its golden cheese and rustic presentation looks beautiful on any brunch table. If you love this, you'll also want to try our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls for a sweet brunch pairing.
Substitutions for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Hash Browns: Swap shredded hash browns for frozen tater tots to make a crack breakfast casserole with tater tots. You can also use diced potatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture, or even try breakfast casserole bread by layering cubed sourdough or French bread on top of the hash browns.
- Meat: Use only bacon or only sausage if you prefer. You can also try ham or even cooked ground turkey for a lighter option. For a breakfast casserole amish style, use smoked sausage and add a touch of molasses to the egg mixture.
- Cheese: Use Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile. You can even add crescent rolls on top before baking for a flaky, buttery crust.
Variations on Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Breakfast Casserole with Bread: Layer cubed bread (like a breakfast casserole apple french toast style) on top of the hash browns for a French toast-inspired twist. You can also add diced breakfast casserole apple pieces for a sweet-savory combo.
- Breakfast Casserole Biscuits and Gravy: Top the casserole with crumbled breakfast casserole biscuits before baking and serve with sausage gravy on the side.
- Healthy Breakfast Casserole: Use egg whites, turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, and add breakfast casserole asparagus or spinach or bell peppers for a breakfast casserole healthy version. Serve with a side salad or breakfast casserole and sides like fresh fruit and yogurt.
Equipment for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- 9x13-Inch Baking Dish: This is the standard size for this easy cheap breakfast casserole. Glass or ceramic works best for even baking and a beautiful cheesy browned top.
- Large Skillet: For browning your sausage and bacon. A cast-iron skillet gives the best sear and flavor.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl makes it easy to whisk together your egg custard binder without spills. This breakfast casserole easy simple approach means you don't need fancy equipment, just the basics.
Storage Tips for Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole covered in the oven at 300°F.
- Freeze Breakfast Casserole: Assemble the casserole completely, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Make-Ahead: This is the best make ahead breakfast because you can prep it the night before and bake fresh in the morning. Just cover and refrigerate overnight. This 3 ingredient breakfast casserole core (eggs, cheese, hash browns) makes storage and reheating super simple.
Adam's Tip for Crack Breakfast Casserole
"If you want your casserole to be extra cheesy, hide some cheese cubes in the middle layers. It's like a secret cheese surprise when you cut into it!" For another cheesy breakfast favorite, check out our Homemade Cookie Butter Latte to sip alongside your casserole. You can also check out breakfast casserole allrecipes for more inspiration if you want to try different variations.
FAQ about Crack Breakfast Casserole
How do you make a simple breakfast casserole?
The easiest breakfast casserole starts with a base (hash browns or bread), a protein (sausage, bacon, or ham), cheese, and an egg custard binder. Layer everything in a baking dish, pour eggs over the top, and bake at 350°F until golden and set. This 4 ingredient breakfast casserole approach works great for beginners.
What is John Wayne's casserole?
John Wayne Casserole is a Southwestern-style casserole with a biscuit base, ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, and peppers. It's hearty and flavorful, but very different from this crack breakfast casserole yummy with mia style, which focuses on breakfast ingredients like eggs, sausage, and hash browns.
What is the most Googled casserole recipe?
Breakfast casseroles like this one are among the most searched because they're easy, feed a crowd, and can be made ahead. Other popular searches include green bean casserole and tater tot casserole. This best ever breakfast casserole ranks high because it's so versatile.
What gives hashbrown casserole flavor?
Ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, and cream cheese are the secret weapons in this recipe. The ranch adds a tangy, savory kick, while the cream cheese and sour cream base keeps everything rich and creamy. Don't forget to season your sausage and bacon well too!
Conclusion
Here's to drinking your coffee (or mimosa!) while the oven does all the work. I hope this stress-free recipe lets you make memories with your guests instead of just making food for them.
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing brunch casserole. Whether you make it as a breakfast casserole with tater tots, a breakfast casserole with bacon, or stick with the classic shredded hashbrowns version, it's going to disappear fast. If you loved this recipe, don't miss our Crème Brûlée French Toast for another show-stopping brunch dish. Now go grab that 9x13 pan and get ready to make the best breakfast casserole ever! For more inspiration, check out this Charleston Breakfast Casserole from AllRecipes. And if you want even more ideas, browse our Chocolate Rolls for dessert!
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Crack Breakfast Casserole:
recipe
Easy Crack Breakfast Casserole
Equipment
- 1 9×13-inch baking dish Use glass or ceramic for even browning
- 1 Large Skillet For cooking sausage and bacon
- 1 Mixing Bowl To whisk egg custard
- 1 Spatula Helps press layers evenly
- 1 Aluminum foil For covered baking
Ingredients
For the Base
- 30 oz frozen hash browns thawed, shredded
- 1 lb breakfast sausage cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
For the Egg Custard Binder
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix 1 oz
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- “Preheat the oven to 350°F. I always tell little Olivia this is when the kitchen starts to ‘wake up.’ It’s our quiet time to set out ingredients together before the real fun begins.”
- “In a large skillet, brown the [breakfast sausage] and crumble it into bite-size pieces. Drain the fat, then do the same with the [bacon]. Olivia loves listening to the sizzle, she calls it ‘breakfast music.’”
- “Spread the thawed [hash browns] across the bottom of your greased 9x13 dish. This creates a sturdy, cozy base, almost like tucking the whole casserole into a soft potato blanket.”
- “Sprinkle the [sausage] and [bacon] over the hash browns, then scatter the soft [cream cheese] cubes on top. Olivia loves helping here, she calls them ‘little cream cheese pillows.’”
- “In a mixing bowl, whisk the [eggs], [sour cream], [milk], [ranch seasoning mix], and [black pepper] until smooth. I let Olivia whisk while I hold the bowl steady, it’s one of her proudest kitchen jobs.”
- “Pour the creamy egg mixture over everything, letting it seep into the layers. Gently press down with a spatula to help the custard soak in. Olivia always says it looks like the casserole is taking a warm bath.”
- “Sprinkle the first 2 cups of [shredded cheddar] evenly over the top. This melts into the casserole beautifully while it bakes.”
- “Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. If you're baking from the fridge, let it rest on the counter for 20 minutes first. This step is perfect for letting Olivia set the table or pick our brunch playlist.”
- “Remove the foil, sprinkle the final cup of [cheddar cheese], and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly. The top should look like a cheesy sunrise.”
- “Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This is when Olivia stands by the counter, peeking over the edge, waiting for the first piece. Serve warm and enjoy every cozy bite together.”
Notes
- Make it ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance.
- Swap hash browns for tater tots for a crispier texture.
- Use only sausage or only bacon if preferred.
- Add bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra veggies.
- For a lighter casserole, use turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, and reduced-fat sour cream.
- Leftovers reheat wonderfully for quick weekday breakfasts.
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