Description
Hearty crack breakfast casserole delivers pure morning magic with layers of cheesy, savory goodness. Breakfast champions will devour this irresistible dish that combines crispy bacon, melted cheese, and creamy eggs into one unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats:
- 1 pound (450g) pork sausage
- 1 pound (450g) bacon, chopped
Dairy and Eggs:
- 8 large eggs
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120g) sour cream
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Seasonings and Other Ingredients:
- 1 (1-ounce/28g) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 (30-ounce/850g) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by warming it to 350F (175C) and coating a 9×13 inch baking vessel with a light layer of lubricant to prevent sticking.
- Transform the sausage into crispy, golden morsels by crumbling and sautéing in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess fat to maintain a lighter texture.
- Construct the base layer by arranging French bread cubes across the entire bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a sturdy foundation for the casserole.
- Develop flavor complexity by distributing the cooked sausage evenly over the bread foundation, then cascade crumbled bacon across the surface, followed by a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Craft the liquid binding by vigorously whisking eggs with milk, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture.
- Infuse the casserole by gently pouring the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, using a spatula to ensure complete liquid absorption and even distribution throughout the bread cubes.
- Enhance the presentation by sprinkling the remaining cheese across the top, then transferring the casserole to the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the surface turns golden and the interior sets completely.
- Allow the casserole to rest and settle for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps stabilize the structure and intensifies the flavors.
- Elevate the dish with optional garnishes like verdant green onions, zesty hot sauce, or fresh parsley to add a final burst of color and taste before serving.
Notes
- Swap bread types to create gluten-free or low-carb versions using alternatives like almond flour bread or cauliflower toast for dietary needs.
- Prep ingredients the night before to save morning cooking time, allowing bread to soak up egg mixture overnight for richer flavor and more tender texture.
- Use turkey sausage or plant-based meat alternatives to reduce fat content and create healthier protein options for health-conscious eaters.
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the egg mixture, transforming this classic breakfast casserole into a gourmet morning experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 585
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1061mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 245mg