Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for kickstarting your morning. It’s loaded with fluffy eggs, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and tender bread cubes that soak up all the delicious flavors. This casserole has a wonderful mix of textures, from the custardy eggs to the crunchy top, making every bite satisfying.
One thing I love about this casserole is how easy it is to put together, especially when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss. I usually prepare it the night before and let it chill in the fridge, which makes the flavors blend together beautifully by morning. It’s like a little gift waiting for me when I wake up!
I like serving this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out the rich flavors. It’s always a hit when friends or family come over for breakfast or brunch, and honestly, it’s one of those dishes everyone asks for again and again. If you want a cozy, filling morning meal to bring a smile to the table, this casserole won’t disappoint.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This sausage adds a lot of flavor and heartiness. If you want, ground pork or turkey sausage can work as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based sausage crumbles.
Bacon: Crisp bacon gives a great crunch and smoky taste. Turkey bacon or veggie bacon strips are good swaps if you want less fat or a meat-free choice.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully and add creaminess. You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or Colby. If you want less sharpness, use mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses.
Tater Tots: They make this casserole stand out with their crispy texture. If unavailable, try frozen hash browns or diced roasted potatoes instead.
Eggs & Milk: These bind everything together and make it fluffy. For a dairy-free option, use almond or oat milk. Egg substitutes can work here, but the texture will be a bit different.
How Do I Get the Perfect Golden and Set Casserole?
Baking this casserole perfectly means cooking until the eggs are set and the top is nicely browned. Don’t rush this part! Use these tips:
- Preheat your oven fully to 350°F so it cooks evenly.
- Use an uncovered baking dish to get a nice crust on top.
- Check the casserole at 45 minutes by gently shaking it—a slight jiggle in the center means keep baking a bit longer.
- For a prettier finish, crack whole eggs on top before baking; they cook gently and add an appealing look.
- Let it rest for 5–10 mins after baking to set fully and make slicing easier.
Following these steps will give you a warm, creamy, and crispy breakfast casserole everyone will enjoy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and layering the casserole ingredients.
- Large skillet – great for browning sausage and crisping bacon in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – you’ll whisk eggs, milk, and spices here easily.
- Whisk or fork – to blend the eggs and milk smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helpful for accurate seasoning and ingredient amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for diced ham or cooked chorizo for different protein flavors.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for a fresh, sweet crunch.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a bit of spicy heat.
- Mix in spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrients without overpowering taste.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat and Tater Tot Base:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (or ground breakfast sausage)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 6 cups frozen tater tots (about 12 oz)
For the Egg and Cheese Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to 1 hour for baking. Plan for a total of about 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes from start to finish, including a short resting time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it up into small bits while it browns. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease and set aside. Then, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, crumble it, and set it aside.
3. Assemble the Base Layers:
Place the frozen tater tots evenly at the bottom of your baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of tater tots.
4. Mix the Egg and Cheese Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar and 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Combine and Top:
Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the tater tots and sausage in the baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and the remaining cheese over the top.
6. Optional Egg Topping:
For a pretty finish, crack two whole eggs on top of the casserole before baking, as shown in the image.
7. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the eggs are fully set, and the top is golden brown. You can test doneness by gently shaking the pan; there should be no jiggle in the center.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh touch.
Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and savory breakfast casserole for a hearty start to your day!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes! If you prefer fresh potatoes, dice and parboil them before layering in the casserole. This will help them cook through evenly and maintain a nice texture.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake it a bit longer—about 15 extra minutes—to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can swap the milk for almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The texture might be a little different, but it will still be tasty!
