Crack Breakfast Casserole — Easy Breakfast Casserole to Start Your Day Right
I fell in love with Crack Breakfast Casserole on a sleepy Saturday morning years ago when I needed a dish that would feed a house full of family and still let me enjoy my coffee. My aunt brought a pan of this cheesy, bacon-studded casserole and it disappeared faster than I could grab a plate. Since then, it’s become my go-to for holidays, sleepover brunches, and any morning when I want something comforting and effortless. Though “crack” is a cheeky name born from the dish’s addictive flavor, the casserole itself reflects a long tradition of hearty American breakfast bakes — simple, shareable, and built on pantry-friendly ingredients. If you’re looking for a no-fuss crowd-pleaser, this is it. For more breakfast inspiration, check out my breakfast roundup: Best Breakfast Recipes.
Who is this recipe for?
- This recipe is ideal for busy parents, brunch hosts, and beginners who want a reliable, hands-off breakfast that still tastes like a treat.
Core ingredients overview:
- This casserole layers crispy bacon, shredded cheese, eggs, and hash browns with a splash of milk to create a creamy, savory bake. The main ingredients are: 8 slices of bacon (cooked and chopped), 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice), 6 large eggs, 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed), 1 cup milk, salt and pepper, and optional chopped green onions or bell peppers for garnish. This dish combines bacon, cheese, eggs, and potatoes to create a flavorful and easy breakfast casserole.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools
- 9×13 inch baking dish — perfect size for family portions.
- Large mixing bowl — to whisk eggs and milk smoothly.
- Whisk or fork — for beating eggs and combining ingredients.
- Skillet or frying pan — to cook bacon until crisp.
- Measuring cups and spoons — ensure consistent results.
- Spatula — for spreading layers evenly.
- Oven mitts — for safe handling of the hot dish.
- Cutting board and knife — to chop bacon and optional garnishes.
Ingredients (with short benefits)
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped — adds smoky, salty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) — delivers creamy melt and rich taste.
- 6 large eggs — provide structure, protein, and a silky custard when baked.
- 2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed — bring potato comfort and absorb the egg custard.
- 1 cup milk — lightens and enriches the egg mixture for a tender bake.
- Salt and pepper to taste — essential for balanced seasoning.
- Optional: chopped green onions or bell peppers for garnish — brighten flavor and add color.
For a heartier chicken-forward variation, this casserole concept pairs well with casseroles like my chicken noodle dishes: chicken casserole with noodles.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the hash browns evenly at the bottom.
- Top with the chopped bacon and shredded cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the dish.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with green onions or bell peppers if desired.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes. Bake the casserole fully, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Q: What can I use instead of bacon?
A: You can swap bacon for cooked sausage, diced ham, or a vegetarian soy-based bacon alternative for different flavors and dietary needs.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator overnight; bake as directed in the morning (you may need an extra 5–10 minutes if baking straight from chilled).
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, with the listed ingredients this casserole is naturally gluten-free. Always check labels on frozen hash browns and shredded cheese to be sure.
Tips & Tricks
- Thaw and drain hash browns well: Excess water can make the casserole watery. Pat them dry with a towel if needed.
- Crisp your bacon: Slightly overcook bacon (to just before burning) so it stays pleasantly textured in the bake.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing helps it set and makes tidier portions.
- Customize mix-ins: Stir in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms under the cheese layer for extra veggies — and see ideas from other melt-style recipes like ham and swiss melts for flavor inspiration.
Conclusion
For more variations and inspiration, see these helpful recipes: Crack Breakfast Casserole – Plain Chicken, Crack Breakfast Casserole | The Recipe Critic, and Sheet Pan Crack Breakfast Casserole – Plain Chicken.
Enjoy your Crack Breakfast Casserole—share it with friends and family for a breakfast that disappears fast. Always add
tag after Directions.