The Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with crispy hash browns, savory bacon, and creamy cheese, this dish is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before for an effortless morning.
Crowd-Pleaser: A cheesy, bacon-packed delight everyone will love.
Customizable: Add vegetables or swap proteins to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (shredded or cubed)
1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (or more to taste)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture:
8 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup sour cream
½ cup cream cheese, softened
Optional Topping:
½ cup green onions, sliced
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Base:
Spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the baking dish.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the hash browns.
Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Stir in the sour cream and softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine and Bake:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns, bacon, and cheese. Use a spatula to spread it if needed.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the eggs are set, and the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with green onions if desired and serve warm. Enjoy this indulgent dish packed with cheesy, bacon-loaded goodness!
Tips for Success
Add Veggies: Include sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
Protein Swap: Substitute bacon with cooked sausage, ham, or turkey for variety.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for an easy breakfast.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers in individual portions for a quick, reheatable meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with fresh fruit or a green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with toast, English muffins, or warm biscuits for a complete breakfast.
Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~400 kcal
Protein: 17g
Fat: 28g
Carbs: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Works
The Crack Breakfast Casserole combines a blend of flavors and textures that make it irresistible:
The crispy hash brown base provides a satisfying crunch.
Cream cheese and sour cream add richness and creaminess to the egg mixture.
Bacon and cheddar cheese deliver savory and salty notes, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.
Make this Crack Breakfast Casserole for your next family breakfast or brunch. It’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table!