Whether you’re planning a family breakfast, hosting a brunch, or simply want to treat yourself to a hearty morning meal, this Crack Breakfast Casserole has you covered. It combines all the breakfast essentials—crispy bacon, eggs, hash browns, and cheese—into one satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. With its vibrant veggies, creamy eggs, and golden-brown crust, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
A Complete Meal in One Dish: Packed with protein, carbs, and vegetables, this casserole is a well-rounded breakfast option.
Customizable: The recipe can be easily tailored to suit your taste by adding or swapping ingredients.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before and popping into the oven in the morning.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family breakfast or a holiday gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleasing breakfast casserole:
1 pound bacon, diced: The salty, smoky flavor of bacon is the heart of this dish.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Provides a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Balances the red bell pepper with a slightly earthy taste.
12 large eggs: The base of the casserole that holds everything together.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, custard-like texture.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole for a gooey, cheesy bite.
1 package (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed: Adds texture and heartiness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Brings out the flavor of all the ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter, oil, or cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the rendered bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. This mixture will create a rich and fluffy base for the casserole.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir the cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheddar cheese, and thawed hash browns into the egg mixture. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed across the dish.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with chopped green onions or additional cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Recipe Success
Thaw Hash Browns Thoroughly: Ensure the hash browns are completely thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Cook Bacon Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can cook the bacon the night before and store it in the refrigerator.
Don’t Overmix the Eggs: Whisk until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can affect the texture.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Variations and Add-Ons
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for some heat.
Sausage Swap: Replace the bacon with cooked breakfast sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gouda, for unique flavors.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the hash browns and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty breakfast casserole with simple sides to round out the meal:
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, melon, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Toast or Biscuits: Serve with a side of buttered toast or flaky biscuits for a classic breakfast pairing.
Coffee or Juice: A hot cup of coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice complements this dish perfectly.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about this casserole is how well it keeps. Here’s how to make it ahead and store leftovers:
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless: Simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients make this recipe approachable for any cook.
Customizable: Whether you’re a meat lover or a veggie enthusiast, you can tweak this casserole to fit your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday breakfasts to lazy Sunday mornings, this dish is always a hit.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy quick, delicious breakfasts all week long.
Conclusion
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food to kickstart your day. With its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is as practical as it is delicious.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a breakfast dish that’s destined to become a household favorite. Happy cooking!