Crack Breakfast Casserole 🥘 🍳
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Satisfying : Packed with protein from eggs, sausage, and cheese, it keeps you full and energized.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Assemble the night before and bake in the morning—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
- Customizable : Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at gatherings, potlucks, or family breakfasts.
- Easy Cleanup : One pan means minimal mess and effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 8–10
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (or turkey sausage for a lighter option)
- 8 cups cubed bread (stale French bread, sourdough, or baguette works best)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 10 large eggs
- 3 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Optional Toppings:
- Green onions , chopped
- Fresh parsley , chopped
- Hot sauce , for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Crack Breakfast Casserole 🥘 🍳
- Spread half of the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by half of the shredded cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, sausage, and cheeses.
Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Gently press down on the layers with a spatula to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 45–50 minutes , or until the top is golden brown, the edges are bubbly, and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions, parsley, or hot sauce if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works
- Egg Custard Magic : The combination of eggs and milk creates a creamy, custardy texture that binds everything together.
- Cheese Pull : Melty cheddar and mozzarella add indulgence and flavor to every bite.
- Sausage Savory Base : Crumbled sausage provides a salty, meaty foundation that complements the other ingredients.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option : Skip the sausage and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free bread to make this dish accessible for all diets.
- Spice It Up : Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Breakfast Potatoes : Stir in roasted potatoes or hash browns for added heartiness.
- Different Cheeses : Experiment with pepper jack, Gruyère, or feta for unique flavors.
Tips for Success
- Use Stale Bread : Stale bread holds up better in the custard without becoming soggy. If your bread is fresh, toast it lightly before cubing.
- Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if needed.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside fresh fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, or muffins for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and effortless indulgence, offering a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. With its customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made breakfast casseroles or experimented with savory egg dishes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below
