Breakfast Lasagna: A Hearty and Delicious Morning Casserole

Introduction

If you love a hearty breakfast packed with all the best morning flavors, this Breakfast Lasagna is for you! This dish layers breakfast sausage, hashbrowns, sautéed vegetables, eggs, and creamy Swiss and Gruyere cheese between no-boil lasagna noodles, creating a rich and satisfying meal perfect for brunch, holidays, or meal prep.

Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want to wake up to something truly indulgent, this breakfast lasagna is the perfect make-ahead dish. Just pop it in the oven and let the flavors come together in the most delicious way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Great for meal prep – Make it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning
• Perfect for special occasions – Ideal for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or a weekend family gathering
• Customizable – You can easily swap ingredients to fit dietary needs or preferences

Taste & Texture

This breakfast lasagna is savory, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The sausage adds a rich, meaty depth, while the hashbrowns provide a soft yet slightly crispy texture. The creamy layers of melted cheese bind everything together, making every bite absolutely delicious.

Dietary Attributes

• High in protein, making it a filling and satisfying breakfast
• Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles
• Easily adaptable for vegetarians by omitting the sausage and adding extra veggies like mushrooms and spinach

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups hashbrowns (shredded and thawed)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
• 8 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
• 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Notes on Quality

For the best flavor, opt for high-quality breakfast sausage with minimal fillers. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, and if possible, use organic eggs and whole milk for a richer taste.

Possible Substitutions

• Cheese options: Swap Swiss and Gruyere for cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different twist
• Meat alternatives: Use turkey sausage, ham, or even crumbled bacon instead of pork sausage
• Vegetarian version: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini
• Dairy-free alternative: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese to make it lactose-free

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage for about 8 minutes until browned.
• Add onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in hashbrowns and cook for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from heat.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
• Spread ½ cup of the egg mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top.
• Add a layer of sausage and vegetable mixture, then sprinkle ¼ cup Swiss cheese and ¼ cup Gruyere cheese over it. Pour ½ cup of the egg mixture evenly over the layer.
• Repeat this layering process two more times, making three layers total.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use no-boil lasagna noodles for convenience, but make sure to check the brand’s baking instructions as cooking times may vary
• If your sausage releases a lot of grease, drain excess fat before layering to prevent an oily dish
• Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the resting time can result in a messy lasagna that falls apart when sliced
• Using pre-shredded cheese can lead to a grainy texture due to anti-caking agents
• Overloading the layers with ingredients can prevent even cooking

Time-Saving Tips

• Cook the sausage and vegetables the night before to speed up prep time in the morning
• Assemble the entire lasagna a day ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning
• Freeze leftovers in portion-sized slices for an easy grab-and-reheat breakfast

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast
• A side of heart-shaped grilled cheese sandwiches can make this meal even more fun. Try this easy Heart-Shaped Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe

Presentation Ideas

• Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top before baking for a golden crust
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color

Beverage Pairings

• Enjoy with freshly brewed coffee or a classic mimosa
• A warm cup of chai latte pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy layers

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months

Reheating Methods

• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15 minutes to maintain texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free noodles and follow the same steps.

What Can I Use Instead of Breakfast Sausage?

You can use turkey sausage, ham, bacon, or even plant-based sausage for a meatless option.

How Do I Prevent the Eggs from Making the Lasagna Soggy?

Make sure to let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the eggs to set properly.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Vegetarian: Swap sausage for mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese
• Keto-Friendly: Replace lasagna noodles with thin layers of zucchini

Flavor Twists

• Add chili flakes for a spicy kick
• Mix in cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor
• Swap nutmeg for cinnamon for a subtle warmth

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• For a Christmas version, add diced red and green bell peppers for a festive touch
• In the fall, try adding a pinch of pumpkin spice to the egg mixture for a warm seasonal flavor

Conclusion

This Breakfast Lasagna is a true game-changer for breakfast and brunch. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and can be made ahead for a stress-free morning. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

If you love this dish, you might also enjoy this Classic French Toast Recipe or try making a French Omelette with Fines Herbes.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out my Pinterest board: Recipes by Cooking with Callie

Print