Crack Breakfast Casserole is a breakfast game-changer loaded with eggs, cheese, sausage, and buttery crescent rolls that all come together in one deliciously gooey, cheesy dish. It’s called ‘crack’ for a reason—once you try it, you just can’t stop coming back for more. The mix of savory sausage, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs makes it perfect for lazy weekend mornings or feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.
I love making this casserole because it’s so simple but feels special enough to serve to family and friends. What’s really fun is how it bakes up golden on top, and when you cut into it, the layers of cheese and sausage peek out. I usually add a little salsa on the side or some fresh fruit to balance the richness. One tip I swear by is letting it sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven—that way, it sets up nicely and slices cleanly.
This is my go-to for holiday brunches or when I want something comforting without too much work in the morning. I remember the first time I made it, everyone kept asking for seconds and thirds, which never happens with my cooking! It’s that kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies, and it’s just waiting to be your new favorite breakfast treat too.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is the base that adds a buttery, flaky crust. If you don’t have crescent rolls, try refrigerated biscuit dough or even puff pastry for a different texture. Just press it thinly to cover the dish evenly.
Breakfast Sausage: The sausage adds a hearty, savory punch. You can swap it with cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage if you want a vegetarian option.
Eggs: The binding and protein star of the dish. Make sure to whisk them really well with the sour cream and milk to get a light, creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a sharp, melty cheese flavor. You can mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste or swap for dairy-free cheese if needed.
Sour Cream & Milk: These keep the eggs creamy and tender. Greek yogurt is a good substitute for sour cream, while any milk type works fine here.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Set and Golden Casserole?
The key to success is baking just long enough so the eggs set but stay moist, and the cheese melts to a golden top.
- Preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Whisk eggs, sour cream, and milk thoroughly so the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread the crescent roll dough evenly to avoid soggy spots.
- Cook the sausage well beforehand—no raw meat in the casserole.
- Bake uncovered to let the top brown nicely without steaming.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing; this helps it hold together.
Taking these steps will help your casserole bake evenly, have a golden-bubbly cheese topping, and slice neatly for happy servings!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy slicing.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to whisk eggs and other ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs, sour cream, and milk into a creamy mix.
- Nonstick skillet – for cooking and draining the sausage before adding to the casserole.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasonings and liquids just right.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – to spread layers and mix ingredients gently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage with cooked bacon or diced ham for a different meaty flavor.
- Mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms to add veggies and extra texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
Crack Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Base:
- 1 (8 oz) package crescent roll dough
For The Filling:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and drained
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
For Garnish (Optional):
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Cooked and crumbled bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. Allow a few minutes to cool before slicing and serving, so plan about an hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Oven And Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy serving.
2. Make The Crescent Roll Crust:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms a buttery, flaky crust that will support the filling perfectly.
3. Add Sausage Layer:
Evenly sprinkle the cooked and drained breakfast sausage over the crescent roll crust, covering the entire surface.
4. Mix The Egg Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until combined.
5. Assemble The Casserole:
Pour the creamy egg and cheese mixture evenly over the sausage layer in the baking dish. Then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake And Serve:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set and the top is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to make slicing easier.
7. Garnish And Enjoy:
Top with chopped green onions and crumbled bacon if desired for extra flavor and a nice crunch. Serve warm and enjoy a hearty, cheesy breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking and draining it to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make Crack Breakfast Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Crescent Roll Dough?
If you don’t have crescent rolls, refrigerated biscuit dough or puff pastry work well as a crust alternative. Just press them evenly into the dish like the crescent dough.
