This Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish that brings eggs, sausage, cheese, and biscuits together in one cozy bake. It’s perfect for a fun brunch with family or friends!
Let’s be honest; this casserole is so good, it might just make you skip cereal forever! I love to add a sprinkle of green onions on top for a little color—simple and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Use any type you like, but I enjoy mild or spicy sausage for that flavor kick. If you want a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage instead.
Biscuit Dough: The refrigerated biscuit dough adds fluffiness. You can substitute it with homemade biscuit dough or even use hash browns for a different twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic, but I also mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Any melty cheese works well here, including mozzarella or a blend.
Eggs and Milk: While large eggs are a must, you can swap regular milk for non-dairy options like almond milk or oat milk. Just ensure they are unsweetened for best results.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the casserole just right can be a bit tricky, but here’s my go-to method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to achieve even cooking.
- Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly to combine. This helps ensure a creamy texture.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden. Use a toothpick or knife to check if it’s set; it should come out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. This step helps it firm up and makes serving easier.
These tips will help you cook a perfectly fluffy and delicious casserole every time! Enjoy!
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (16.3 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Toppings:
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 45-50 minutes to bake, totaling around 1 hour to have it ready. Try to let it cool for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish, give it a nice greasing with cooking spray or butter, and set it aside to prep for the delicious layers to come!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and nicely crumbled. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside for later use in the casserole.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Begin layering by spreading the biscuit dough pieces evenly over the bottom of your greased baking dish. This will create a fluffy base for your casserole!
Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the biscuit pieces, followed by adding 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a separate large mixing bowl, take those 8 eggs and whisk them together with the milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is well combined and blended.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Pour your egg mixture evenly over the biscuit, sausage, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that melty goodness!
Now, it’s time to bake! Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before cutting it into squares. This allows it to set and makes serving easier!
For an extra touch, sprinkle with the optional chopped cooked bacon and fresh chives or green onions before serving. Enjoy your warm and hearty Crack Breakfast Casserole with your favorite breakfast drinks!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, ham, or even cooked bacon for a different flavor profile. If you want a meat-free option, you can skip the meat entirely or use vegetables like bell peppers and spinach.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pop it in the oven when you’re ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a green salad, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with hot sauce or salsa on the side for an extra kick!