This Crack Breakfast Casserole Hashbrown is a hearty and tasty meal that everyone will love. With layers of crispy hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, and savory sausage, it’s a breakfast winner!
I love making this for brunch with friends because it’s so easy. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, the leftovers are just as good—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen hashbrowns save a lot of time. If you prefer fresh, grate your own potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture. This keeps the casserole from becoming too soggy.
Bacon: Bacon brings great flavor, but turkey bacon or even sausage can work well here. I sometimes mix it up with spicy sausage for an extra kick!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want something milder or creamier, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack. A blend of cheeses is also delicious!
Sour Cream: Regular sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This also gives an extra tangy flavor.
Onions: If you’re not a fan of onions, skip them! You can also use green onions for a milder taste or substitute with bell peppers for some crunch.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Baking this casserole requires a little watching to get it just right. Here are some tips to avoid undercooked or overcooked sections:
- Make sure your ingredients are evenly distributed. This helps everything cook together.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- If it starts browning too much on top, cover it with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.
- Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set up nicely!
Crack Breakfast Casserole Hashbrown
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, it’s good to let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, which makes it perfect for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Layer the Hashbrowns:
Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. It’s okay if they overlap a little; just make sure it’s mostly even. This forms the delicious base of your casserole!
3. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Now, sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon over the hashbrowns evenly. This extra flavor will melt beautifully into the casserole.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs and whisk them together. Then add in the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is combined and smooth.
5. Pour and Layer Again:
Pour the egg mixture gently over the hashbrowns, cheese, and bacon, making sure to cover everything evenly. This egg mixture will bind all the ingredients together as it bakes.
6. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon on top of the casserole. If you’re using onions, this is the time to sprinkle those as well for some added flavor.
7. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set (not wobbly) and the top is golden and bubbly!
8. Let It Cool:
Once baked, carefully take the casserole out of the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing—this will help it hold its shape better when served.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, then cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Crack Breakfast Casserole Hashbrown with family and friends!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you choose to use fresh hashbrowns, just make sure to grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No problem! You can substitute bacon with cooked sausage or even leave it out altogether for a vegetarian option. Just add some extra veggies to keep it hearty.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave. Adding a splash of milk will help keep it moist!