This crack breakfast casserole is a tasty mix of crispy hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats. It’s the perfect dish to serve for brunch or any morning gathering!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pan breakfast? It makes cooking feel like a breeze! I enjoy serving this with fresh fruit on the side for a colorful touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns: These are the star of the show, providing texture and heartiness. If you can’t find frozen, you can use fresh potatoes, but they will need to be grated and par-cooked first.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness. Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute if you want something lighter. Greek yogurt can also work for a tangy twist.
Sour Cream: It gives a nice creaminess. You can use plain yogurt or even cottage cheese if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. You can also mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. Any melty cheese will do!
Bacon: Bacon adds that delicious crunch. Turkey bacon or even crumbled sausage can be used, or skip the meat for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Get Cream Cheese Smooth in the Mixture?
Mixing cream cheese into the casserole can be tricky if it’s cold. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
- To speed it up, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds. Just be careful not to melt it!
- Use a hand mixer or beater to whip it together with sour cream and melted butter for a smooth blend.
This step is important because it helps the flavors combine well and ensures a creamy texture throughout!
Why Bake Until Golden Brown?
Baking your casserole until golden brown is key for flavor and texture. Here’s why:
- The cheese on top becomes bubbly and slightly crisp, adding a delicious contrast.
- A golden color means everything underneath has cooked nicely, developing rich, cohesive flavors.
- Let it rest after baking; this helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice.
This is how you get the perfect mix of creamy and crunchy in every bite!
How to Make a Delicious Crack Breakfast Casserole Hashbrown
Ingredients You Will Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hashbrowns (thawed)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Time Needed to Make the Casserole:
This delicious breakfast casserole will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and around 45-55 minutes to bake. You’ll need a total of 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this comforting dish, including cooling time. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent your casserole from sticking later on!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter. Use a mixer or a fork to thoroughly mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your casserole!
3. Combine the Hashbrowns and Spices:
Add the thawed hashbrowns to the bowl, along with 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, the chopped green onions if you’re using them, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or large spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
4. Add the Bacon:
Fold in about half of the chopped bacon into your hashbrown mixture. This adds delicious bacon flavor throughout when you bake it!
5. Spread into the Baking Dish:
Carefully spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. It’s important to distribute it evenly, so the casserole cooks thoroughly!
6. Add Cheese and Bacon Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped bacon over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious and crispy topping when baked!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. You want to bake it until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the casserole set a little bit. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color before serving!
9. Slice and Serve:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy this rich and cheesy breakfast delight with family and friends!
This Crack Breakfast Casserole Hashbrown is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, combining crispy bacon, creamy layers, and hearty hashbrowns in every bite. Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh hashbrowns, grate your potatoes and par-cook them for about 5-10 minutes before mixing them into the casserole. This will help ensure they cook through nicely in the oven.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain yogurt is a great alternative. You can also use cottage cheese for a slightly different texture, which will still be creamy and delicious!
How to Make it Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and texture. You could also use a meat substitute if you prefer!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
