Crack Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, and buttery bread. It’s the kind of casserole that fills the kitchen with amazing smells and promises a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for mornings when you want something more than just toast and coffee.
I love making this casserole for weekend brunches or holiday mornings because it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and warms up beautifully. The blend of cheesy, meaty, and eggy goodness always gets everyone excited to dig in, and the crispy edges from the buttery bread add such a nice texture. It’s my go-to when I want something filling that won’t require standing over the stove for too long.
Serving it with a simple side of fresh fruit or a glass of orange juice makes it feel a little special without adding extra fuss. Plus, leftovers heat up great the next day, making it a perfect option for busy mornings when you need a quick, delicious breakfast. For me, there’s nothing better than sitting down with a warm slice of this casserole and knowing the whole day is off to a good start.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the base that holds everything together in this casserole. Use large eggs for the best texture. If you prefer dairy-free, you could try a plant-based egg substitute, though the texture will change.
Milk & Sour Cream: Whole milk and sour cream add richness and creaminess. You can swap milk for almond or oat milk and use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
Bread: Day-old white bread works best because it soaks up the egg mixture without getting mushy. You can substitute with whole wheat or sourdough bread for extra flavor.
Breakfast Sausage & Bacon: These give the casserole its savory punch. Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a leaner or vegetarian option. Bacon adds smoky crunch; try turkey bacon if you want less fat.
Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar melts well and adds great flavor. You could try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. For less dairy, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on top.
How Do I Get the Perfect, Moist But Not Soggy Casserole?
The secret is in balancing the liquid and bread so it’s moist but not soggy. Here’s how:
- Use slightly stale bread—it soaks up the eggs without falling apart.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and sour cream well to create a creamy custard that sets nicely.
- After pouring the egg mix on the bread, gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.
- Bake uncovered so the top gets golden and the edges crisp up, giving nice texture contrast.
- Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly.
Following these tips will help you serve a casserole that’s soft, cheesy, and flavorful but still holds its shape beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the ingredients and bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – a large one helps you whisk eggs, milk, and sour cream without spilling.
- Whisk – makes mixing the eggs and liquids smooth and lump-free.
- Non-stick skillet – great for cooking sausage evenly before adding it to the casserole.
- Spatula – useful for pressing the bread down to soak up the egg mixture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for diced ham or cooked bacon for a different meat flavor.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for a sweet crunch and extra veggies.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh, bright note.
How to Make Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 8 cups cubed white bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Expect about 15 minutes of preparation time and 45 to 55 minutes of baking. After baking, allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Overall, it takes roughly 1 hour from start to delicious finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready to Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray so your casserole won’t stick.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is smoothly combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the cubed bread evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage, then gently press down with a spatula so the bread soaks up the liquid. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
4. Bake and Finish:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until it’s set and the top turns golden brown. Once baked, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon and fresh chives over the top for extra flavor and a lovely presentation. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage or Bacon in This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and cook them before adding to the casserole. This helps prevent extra moisture and ensures even cooking.
Can I Prepare the Crack Breakfast Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Bread or Cheese?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or sourdough bread instead of white bread, and swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella to change the flavor profile.