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Hearty Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Hearty Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 11 1x

Description

Hearty crack breakfast casserole brings together cheesy, savory layers that promise morning comfort. Rich ingredients meld into a crowd-pleasing dish you’ll crave during weekend gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 lb (450g) pork sausage
  • 1 lb (450g) bacon, chopped
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 (30 oz/850g) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120g) sour cream
  • 1 (1 oz/28g) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Protein Preparation: Render sausage and bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy and golden. Drain excess grease thoroughly and set meat aside.
  2. Egg Base Composition: Whip cream cheese and sour cream into a smooth texture using an electric mixer. Blend in whole milk, eggs, ranch seasoning, onion and garlic powders, salt, and pepper until perfectly integrated and silky.
  3. Casserole Assembly: Fold protein mixture, thawed hash browns, and partial cheddar cheese into the creamy egg mixture, ensuring comprehensive and even distribution of ingredients.
  4. Oven Preparation: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Liberally spray a rectangular baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the combined mixture evenly, then sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese across the top.
  5. Baking Process: Cover casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes. Uncover during the final 10 minutes to allow cheese to develop a golden, bubbling crust that’s crisp and appetizing.
  6. Serving: Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice into substantial portions, revealing layers of savory breakfast delights ready to satisfy hungry guests.

Notes

  • Manage Meat Grease: Thoroughly drain sausage and bacon to prevent a soggy, greasy casserole and maintain a crisp texture.
  • Cream Cheese Smoothness: Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature for a lump-free, silky egg base that blends seamlessly.
  • Cheese Distribution: Sprinkle cheese in layers for even melting and a consistent flavor profile throughout the entire dish.
  • Customize Protein Options: Swap meats easily by using turkey sausage, vegetarian alternatives, or plant-based bacon to accommodate different dietary preferences without compromising taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 11
  • Calories: 509
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 1095mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 209mg