Crack Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish for those who love bold flavors and hearty meals to start the day. This casserole is loaded with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, fluffy eggs, and creamy ranch seasoning, making it a savory sensation that’s perfect for weekend mornings, holiday brunches, or meal prep. Easy to assemble and packed with satisfying ingredients, this breakfast casserole is a family favorite that lives up to its “crack” name for being absolutely addictive.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the casserole after baking.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. Add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hash browns. Add the chopped green onions if desired.
Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it evenly covers the hash browns, cheese, and bacon.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Variations
This versatile casserole can be customized in many ways to suit different tastes:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage, diced ham, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
- Spicy Twist: Include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Use Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your ranch seasoning mix and hash browns are certified gluten-free.
Cooking Notes
- Hash Browns: Thaw and pat dry the hash browns to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cheese Choices: Shred your cheese from a block for the best melt; pre-shredded cheese can sometimes have anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Crack Breakfast Casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a fruit salad or fresh berries for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Beverages: Coffee, orange juice, or mimosas are perfect complements.
- Toast or Biscuits: Add a side of buttered toast or flaky biscuits for a complete breakfast spread.
Tips
- Portioning: This recipe serves 6–8, but it can be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 300°F or in the microwave for a quick breakfast during the week.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for an easy grab-and-go breakfast. Thaw overnight and reheat in the morning.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
50 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns? Yes, peel and shred fresh potatoes, then squeeze out excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free? Substitute the milk, cream, and cheese with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, and dairy-free cheese.
Q: How long will leftovers last in the fridge? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Crack Breakfast Casserole is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and hearty ingredients that make mornings extra special. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this casserole delivers in flavor and convenience. Customize it to fit your family’s preferences, add your favorite toppings, or make it ahead for stress-free mornings. With its irresistible combination of bacon, cheese, eggs, and hash browns, this breakfast dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the casserole after baking.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until fully combined. Add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hash browns. Add the chopped green onions if desired.
Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it evenly covers the hash browns, cheese, and bacon.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired.