Introducing the Ultimate Crack Breakfast Casserole
Hey there! If you’re anything like me, there are mornings when you just want to dig into a hearty, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share my version of the Ultimate Crack Breakfast Casserole—a cheesy, bacon-y dish that’s perfect for family brunches or cozy mornings at home. Seriously, if you’re after something delicious, to feed a crowd or just yourself (because leftovers are the best, right?), this is it!
Nutritional Benefits
This breakfast casserole is not just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients. With a good dose of protein from the eggs, sausage, and cheeses, it will keep you feeling satisfied throughout the morning. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture while introducing some calcium and extra protein into your meal. And let’s not forget about those hash browns—you get some carbs to fuel you for your day ahead! Just remember, balance is key. Consider adding some fresh fruit on the side for a fresh touch!
Fun Adaptable Variations
- Veggie Power: Want to sneak in some vegetables? Try adding diced bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms to make this casserole even more nutritious!
- Spice it Up! If you love a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Dairy-Free Option: You can substitute dairy with almond milk or a dairy-free cheese. The dish may taste a bit different, but it should still be fabulous!
- Plant-Based Delight: Swap out sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegan cheese to create a plant-based version of this breakfast treat.
Ultimate Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (about 10 oz) frozen hash browns (thawed)
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- Fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps ensure nothing sticks and clean-up is easy!
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and whisk them until well combined. Let’s get those eggs nice and fluffy!
- Add the 2 cups of milk to the eggs and stir until everything is evenly mixed. Creamy, deliciousness coming right up!
- Incorporate the 1 cup cottage cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 pound of cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, and the spices: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Fold in the thawed hash browns until they are evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture. This is the heart of the casserole, so make sure it’s well blended!
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. It should look pretty good already, don’t you think?
- Top it off with the ½ cup of cooked and crumbled bacon scattered evenly across the casserole.
- Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top has a beautiful golden brown color.
- Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes—patience is key!
- Garnish it with freshly chopped chives for that lovely pop of color before slicing and serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you want to prepare this in advance, you can mix all ingredients together the night before and store it in the fridge—then just pop it in the oven in the morning.
- Leftovers? Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—you can reheat it in the microwave or the oven!
- Serving it for a brunch party? Serve with fresh fruit or a side salad for a refreshing touch!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk (or fork works if you’re in a pinch!)
- A spatula for mixing
- A knife for garnishing
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Absolutely! Just make sure that your hash browns and sausage are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
- How do I know when the casserole is done? It should be puffed up and golden brown on top. You can also poke it with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen? Yes! Just make sure to cook them ahead of time to remove excess moisture.
- Is this casserole good for freezing? Yes! You can freeze the uncooked mixture in the dish and bake when you’re ready for a delicious breakfast.
- Can I substitute the sausage for something else? Definitely! Turkey sausage or any cooked meat can work, or you can even skip the meat for a veggie version!
I can’t wait for you to try this delicious breakfast casserole! It’s cheesy, savory, and just downright delightful! If you give it a go, let me know how it turns out. You can find me over on Pinterest where I love sharing more mouthwatering recipes like this one. Happy cooking!
