Crack Breakfast Casserole Hearty and Simple Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast, look no further than this Crack Breakfast Casserole. It’s packed with all your favorites, plus it’s simple to make. I’ll guide you through easy steps using vibrant ingredients like sourdough bread, eggs, cheese, and sausage. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weekend brunch, this dish will impress your family and friends. Ready to dive into deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for the Crack Breakfast Casserole:

Gathering these ingredients is fun. You can find crusty sourdough bread at most bakeries. I love the flavor it brings. Large eggs and milk form the base of the dish. They help bind everything together.

Shredded sharp cheddar cheese gives a rich taste. I recommend using fresh cheese, as it melts better. The cooked breakfast sausage adds savory goodness. You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Baby spinach is great for a pop of color and nutrition. Onions and bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Don’t forget the garlic powder for depth of flavor.

Season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want, fresh chives add a nice touch on top. This mix of ingredients creates a dish full of flavor. It’s hearty and satisfying for breakfast or brunch!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together 8 eggs and 2 cups of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

3. In the greased dish, layer the cubed sourdough bread evenly on the bottom.

Baking Process

1. Sprinkle the cooked sausage, chopped spinach, onion, and bell pepper over the bread.

2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers. Press down gently to soak the bread.

3. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

4. After 30 minutes, remove the foil. Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until set and the cheese is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing.

2. You can garnish with fresh chives if you wish. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Casserole

To get the best flavor, make sure the bread is soaked well. This helps it absorb the egg mixture. I like to let it sit for a few minutes. This gives the bread a chance to soak up the goodness. For a golden cheese topping, add the cheese last and bake uncovered. This way, the cheese gets bubbly and brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a twist, try using different breads. Challah or whole grain bread can work nicely. You can also change up the veggies. Zucchini or mushrooms can add great taste. For meats, turkey sausage or bacon are tasty swaps.

Making Ahead Tips

You can prepare this casserole the night before. Just follow the steps up to pouring the egg mixture. Cover it well and store in the fridge. This way, you save time in the morning. For overnight storage, use plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps it fresh and ready to bake.

Variations

Vegetarian Version

You can easily make a vegetarian version of the Crack Breakfast Casserole. Simply swap out the cooked breakfast sausage. Use extra veggies instead. Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also add plant-based sausage if you want a similar taste. This keeps the dish hearty and full of flavor without meat.

Spicy Twist

For those who love heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Thinly slice fresh jalapeños and layer them with the veggies. If you prefer, mix hot sauce into the egg and milk mix. This will give the casserole a nice kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance for the best experience.

Breakfast Casserole with Different Cheeses

Change up the cheeses for a new taste. Instead of sharp cheddar, try mozzarella for a milder flavor. Gouda brings a creamy texture and richness. Feta adds a tangy bite that pairs well with the veggies. Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses to create a unique flavor profile.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to enjoy it later, store it in smaller portions. This makes it easy to reheat just what you need.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the cooked casserole for longer storage. Once it cools, cut it into slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as you can. The casserole will keep well for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Methods

To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating, but it may not be as crispy. Heat slices in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, you can use many types of bread. Sourdough works great, but others can too. Try French bread, whole wheat, or even rye. Each bread adds its own flavor. Just remember to cube it for even cooking.

How long can I store this casserole?

You can store the casserole in the fridge for about four days. Make sure to cover it well. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can last for about three months in the freezer. Just let it cool before storing.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is easy. Just use two loaves of bread, double the eggs, and the rest. Ensure your baking dish is large enough. You may need to bake it a bit longer. Check for doneness before serving.

This recipe for a breakfast casserole stands out with its rich flavors and easy steps. We explored ingredients like sourdough, eggs, and cheddar cheese. Each step, from preparation to baking, builds a tasty dish. Tips for perfecting the casserole and creative variations add fun. You can adapt this recipe to fit your taste or make it ahead. Storing leftovers is also simple. With this guide, you’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills. Enjoy creating your unique version of this breakfast delight!

Crack Breakfast Casserole

Start your day right with this delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole! Filled with hearty ingredients like sourdough bread, eggs, cheese, and breakfast sausage, it’s the perfect dish for family brunches or meal prep. Easy to whip up and baked to golden perfection, this casserole will become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to impress with minimal effort? Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your breakfast game today!

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Ingredients

  

1 loaf of crusty sourdough bread, cubed

8 large eggs

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage

1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

In the greased baking dish, layer the cubed sourdough bread evenly across the bottom.

Sprinkle the cooked sausage, chopped spinach, onion, and bell pepper over the bread cubes.

Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish. Make sure to gently press down the bread to soak up the egg mixture.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 8 servings