(Discover how to make an incredibly flavorful morning lasagna that’s perfect for brunch.)
Introduction
Are you searching for an impressive yet comforting meal to start your day off right? Perhaps you’re tired of the same old pancakes and scrambled eggs but still want a hearty breakfast that brings everyone to the table. In that case, breakfast lasagna is the ideal solution. This warm, layered casserole takes inspiration from the classic Italian dish but adapts perfectly to morning flavors—featuring eggs, cheeses, and seasoned ingredients such as turkey sausage or chicken sausage, along with plenty of vegetables.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making a mouthwatering breakfast lasagna. We’ll look at fundamental ingredients, sauce options, layering techniques, and equipment requirements. Along the way, you’ll discover easy customization tips to suit all dietary preferences, whether you’re seeking a meat-heavy feast or an entirely plant-based alternative. We’ll also answer the most popular questions about breakfast lasagna, including how to make it ahead and the difference between “lasagna” and “lasagne.” Best of all, we will keep things straightforward and engaging, using simple words with plenty of transition phrases to ensure a fluid reading experience.
If you’re ready to explore a meal that brings comfort, creativity, and crowd-pleasing appeal all in one dish, let’s jump right into the wonderful world of breakfast lasagna.
What Is Breakfast Lasagna?
Breakfast lasagna is essentially a layered casserole designed to capture the essence of a hearty morning meal. Instead of the traditional Italian combination of tomato sauce, ricotta, and ground beef, this variant uses breakfast-friendly components. For example, you might layer turkey sausage, whisked eggs, vegetables, and a melty cheese blend. There is plenty of room for customization, which is part of what makes breakfast lasagna such a gem in the world of brunch dishes.
Because it’s a baked casserole, breakfast lasagna is also a wonderful make-ahead dish. You can assemble it the night before and pop it into the oven the next morning, making it convenient for holidays or special occasions. Therefore, it’s not just delicious; it also reduces morning stress when you have hungry guests waiting.
Why Make a Breakfast Lasagna?
Most of us love a hot meal in the morning, and breakfast lasagna takes that comfort to a new level. First, the layered format allows each ingredient to maintain its distinct taste and texture, while the sauces and cheese unify those flavors. Second, if you have a large family or are hosting a breakfast gathering, it’s the perfect “all-in-one” solution—less fuss than making separate omelets for each person.
Additionally, breakfast lasagna is versatile enough to cater to various dietary needs. You can include meat, go vegetarian, or even make a dairy-free version with plant-based cheeses and sauces. Moreover, you can swap out traditional lasagna noodles for egg layers, gluten-free sheets, or even vegetable slices. Consequently, it’s one of the most adaptable brunch dishes around.
Key Ingredients
Proteins
When it comes to proteins, breakfast lasagna usually includes a savory component that pairs well with eggs and cheese. Instead of pork sausage or bacon, you can opt for:
- Turkey Sausage: Ground turkey seasoned with your preferred spices offers a lean yet flavor-packed option.
- Chicken Sausage: Another lean protein that is often pre-seasoned with herbs.
- Plant-Based Crumbles: Many stores now carry vegan or vegetarian sausage alternatives that cook and taste similar to real meat.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs (Optional): Some people enjoy slices of hard-boiled egg between layers, although others rely solely on scrambled or whisked eggs.
No matter which protein you choose, you’ll want to cook it thoroughly and remove any excess fat or moisture. That way, you won’t end up with soggy layers in your final dish.
Vegetables
Many versions of breakfast lasagna feature vegetables that balance the rich flavors of cheese and protein. Common picks include:
- Onions and Garlic: Classic aromatics that add depth.
- Bell Peppers: Offer sweetness and color.
- Spinach or Kale: Provide a healthy dose of vitamins and a pop of green.
- Mushrooms: Lend an earthy, savory note.
Before assembling your lasagna, you should typically sauté or roast these vegetables. Doing so removes excess moisture and enhances their flavor through caramelization. In addition, it’s easy to toss in whatever veggies you have on hand, making each batch unique.
Cheeses
Cheese is a crucial element in breakfast lasagna because it helps bind the layers and contributes a melt-in-your-mouth experience. There are many varieties to try:
- Mozzarella: Delivers a creamy, mild flavor and perfect stretch.
- Cheddar: Adds a sharper, tangier taste.
- Monterey Jack: Contains a mild flavor but melts beautifully.
- Ricotta: Provides a delicate creaminess that pairs well with eggs.
- Plant-Based Cheeses: Ideal for those who are dairy-free or vegan.
Using a combination of cheeses can add even more flavor. Nevertheless, feel free to pick just one variety you love. As long as it melts well, it can work in a breakfast lasagna.
Lasagna Sheets or Egg Layers
Traditionally, lasagna relies on wheat pasta sheets. However, breakfast lasagna can feature:
- Standard Lasagna Sheets: Boil them in advance or use oven-ready sheets.
- Egg Sheets: Create thin omelets and use them as layers.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Works just like standard lasagna sheets but without gluten.
- Vegetable Slices: Zucchini or eggplant slices can substitute pasta if you aim to reduce carbs.
Each choice provides a different mouthfeel and flavor, so pick the one that suits your dietary goals or personal taste.
Choosing the Best Sauce
H3: White (Béchamel) Sauce
A white sauce, or béchamel, is a smooth, creamy sauce made by whisking milk with a roux of flour and butter or oil. Since we are avoiding butter made with pork products—though traditional butter is typically from cow’s milk, so it’s acceptable in that regard—you can opt for regular butter, vegan butter, or olive oil to make the roux. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you like.
This sauce seamlessly binds eggs, cheeses, and vegetables together. Although some worry béchamel might be too heavy for a morning meal, it actually highlights savory notes without overwhelming them. Therefore, it’s quite a popular choice for breakfast lasagna.
Tomato-Based Sauces
On the other hand, you can use a mild tomato sauce or even a light marinara for a tangy spin. Tomato-based sauces introduce brightness that offsets the creaminess of eggs and cheese. If you’d like a more southwestern approach, try a lightly seasoned salsa. Moreover, if you prefer a slightly sweet tomato layer, add a small pinch of sugar to balance out the natural acidity.
Equipment Essentials
Having the right tools can make the cooking process much simpler. Although you don’t need fancy gadgets, you should gather:
- Casserole Dish (9×13-inch): Deep enough to accommodate multiple layers.
- Non-Stick or Cast-Iron Skillet: For sautéing turkey sausage, vegetables, or any plant-based proteins.
- Medium Saucepan: If you’re preparing béchamel or warming tomato sauce.
- Whisk and Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces and scrambling eggs.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accuracy in recipes.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping veggies and slicing cooked lasagna.
- Aluminum Foil or Lid: To cover the lasagna for the first phase of baking.
A simple arrangement of these tools will make your workflow more organized and help your layers come together with ease.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Below is a comprehensive breakfast lasagna recipe that serves six to eight people. It’s designed to be adaptable, so you can easily swap out ingredients based on your needs or preferences.
Ingredients List
- 12 ounces turkey sausage (fully cooked and crumbled)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer)
- 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- 8 large eggs (4 whisked for one layer + 4 whisked for another layer, or use thin omelets if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, can replace with additional shredded cheese or a plant-based alternative)
- 6-9 lasagna sheets (boiled or oven-ready, depending on the package instructions)
For the Béchamel (White) Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
(If you prefer a tomato-based sauce, skip the béchamel ingredients and use 2 cups of your favorite tomato sauce.)
Cooking Instructions
1: Prepare the Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add Flour: Stir in the flour to form a roux. Continue stirring for about a minute or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Incorporate Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and helps the sauce thicken evenly.
- Season: Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, usually 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
(Transition Tip: Meanwhile, you can work on cooking the turkey sausage or vegetables to save time.)
2: Cook Turkey Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat Oil: Warm one tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Onions and Peppers: Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until they begin to soften, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Toss in the spinach and let it wilt, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle half the salt and half the pepper over the vegetables.
- Add Turkey Sausage: Stir in your cooked, crumbled turkey sausage. Ensure it is well-combined with the veggies. Remove from heat and set aside.
3: Whisk or Pre-Cook the Eggs
- Whisk Eggs: Crack four of the eggs into a bowl. Add a bit of salt and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Lightly Scramble: In a separate pan, pour the whisked eggs and cook on low until softly set. Keep them moist because they will continue cooking in the oven. Repeat for the remaining four eggs, or you can do all at once if you have a large enough pan.
- Alternative: If you prefer to create egg “sheets” that mimic lasagna noodles, make thin, flat omelets with the whisked eggs. Then slice or layer them directly.
4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly Grease Casserole Dish: Use cooking spray or a small amount of oil to coat the bottom and sides of your 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of béchamel (or tomato sauce) at the bottom of the dish.
- Add Pasta Sheets: Lay down lasagna sheets to cover the sauce. If you’re using egg sheets, place them instead of pasta.
- Layer the Protein Mixture: Spoon a portion of the turkey sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the noodles or egg sheets.
- Add Eggs and Cheese: Scatter some of your scrambled eggs on top, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella and dollops of ricotta if using it.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering sauce, pasta or egg sheets, protein, and cheese. Aim for at least two or three layers.
- Finish with Cheese: Top everything with a final layer of sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover Dish: Use foil to cover the baking dish. Bake for about 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Check Doneness: The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) if any raw egg remains.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the breakfast lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set.
(Transition Tip: If you have extra time, you can place the assembled lasagna in the fridge overnight and bake it in the morning. This works great for special gatherings.)
Popular Variations
Meat-Lovers’ Breakfast Lasagna
Instead of turkey sausage only, combine multiple lean proteins like chicken sausage and ground turkey. Layer them along with more vegetables to add texture and reduce any potential dryness. A mixture of cheeses, such as mozzarella and cheddar, can further enhance flavor depth. However, remember to cook all proteins thoroughly and drain any excess liquid before layering.
Vegetarian or Plant-Based Breakfast Lasagna
For a meatless lasagna, skip the turkey sausage and rely on hearty vegetables and vegan sausage crumbles or tofu. Plant-based cheese shreds and dairy-free ricotta alternatives are widely available. In addition, you can swap out dairy milk in the béchamel for almond, soy, or oat milk. The key is to keep an eye on moisture levels so your lasagna doesn’t become soupy. Therefore, sauté or roast your vegetables to reduce water content.
Sweet Breakfast Lasagna
Looking for something entirely different? Try assembling a sweet breakfast lasagna with thin layers of crepes or tortillas, sweetened ricotta (or plant-based cream cheese), and fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas. Drizzle each layer with honey or a bit of maple syrup. After baking just enough to warm through, your sweet lasagna can be sliced and served as a fun brunch dessert—or an exciting dish for kids.
Serving Suggestions
Breakfast lasagna can easily stand on its own as a satisfying dish. Yet, you may want to pair it with lighter sides to refresh the palate. For instance, a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of seasonal fruit will balance out the lasagna’s rich layers. If you prefer something extra, you can serve it with whole wheat toast or roasted potatoes.
In addition, for those searching for new ways to use leftover ingredients—like extra eggs—be sure to check out our Egg White Frittata Recipe (link can be embedded in a relevant spot on your website). It’s another fantastic and versatile morning option.
Nutritional Information
Below is the approximate nutritional content per 100g of breakfast lasagna made with turkey sausage, béchamel sauce, and standard lasagna sheets. Actual numbers may vary depending on your chosen ingredients.
Nutrient | Approx. Amount per 100g |
---|---|
Calories | ~180 kcal |
Protein | ~12 g |
Carbohydrates | ~10 g |
Fat | ~10 g |
Saturated Fat | ~4 g |
Fiber | ~1.5 g |
Sodium | ~360 mg |
Calcium | ~150 mg |
(Transition Tip: Adjust this data based on whether you choose dairy-free cheeses or gluten-free noodles, as those factors can shift caloric and nutrient profiles.)
Storing and Reheating
Breakfast lasagna is a terrific make-ahead meal. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’d like to freeze it, ensure that it’s well-wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container. Frozen, unbaked lasagna can last up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
For leftovers, store portions in airtight containers and keep them refrigerated for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, place a slice in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes. This method helps keep the eggs from overcooking. Although you can reheat in a microwave, the texture might become rubbery, so the oven tends to yield better results.
Troubleshooting Tips
Too Much Moisture
If your breakfast lasagna turns out watery, it might be because your vegetables or protein released liquid during baking. Therefore, you should always cook vegetables and proteins thoroughly. Also, let your sauce simmer until it thickens before layering.
Overly Dry Layers
On the other hand, if your lasagna is too dry, you may have used minimal sauce or overbaked it. Ensure each layer has enough sauce, and cover the dish with foil for the first portion of baking to lock in moisture.
Uneven Cooking
Uneven cooking often happens when the layers are too thick or if the oven temperature is not well-calibrated. Use an oven thermometer to confirm the heat is accurate. Also, spreading ingredients evenly ensures proper cooking.
Cracked Top or Burnt Edges
If the edges look burnt while the center is undercooked, consider reducing the heat by 25°F (about 15°C) and extending the baking time. Additionally, you can re-cover it with foil if the top appears to be cooking faster than the center.
FAQ (People Also Ask)
Can I have lasagne for breakfast?
Absolutely! Having lasagne for breakfast is common in many cultures. Breakfast lasagna specifically tailors its ingredients toward morning flavors like eggs, turkey sausage, and vegetables. Therefore, it’s perfectly suited for a satisfying meal to start your day.
Why do Italians put hard boiled eggs in lasagna?
In some traditional Italian lasagne recipes, hard-boiled eggs are included for added texture, flavor, and protein. Italians often layer slices of hard-boiled eggs between the pasta sheets, sauce, and cheeses to create a heartier dish. This practice varies by region and family tradition, but many people find the extra egg layer adds a pleasant richness.
What is the difference between lasagna and lasagne?
Technically, “lasagna” usually refers to the dish in American English, while “lasagne” is an Italian term and also the plural form of the noodle itself. However, in everyday usage, most people use them interchangeably to refer to the beloved layered pasta casserole. The choice of spelling often depends on regional or personal preference.
Do I put egg in ricotta cheese for lasagna?
Many traditional recipes suggest mixing raw egg into ricotta cheese to help bind the cheese layer. In the context of breakfast lasagna, you can do the same if you like a creamier filling. However, it’s not mandatory. Some individuals prefer to layer plain ricotta without an egg mixture, especially if they’re aiming for a lighter texture or following an egg-free lifestyle.
Conclusion
Breakfast lasagna turns a familiar Italian-style casserole into a morning showstopper. From turkey sausage and scrambled eggs to plant-based alternatives and a sweet dessert version, there is a variation suitable for virtually every palate. It’s ideal for gatherings because you can assemble it ahead of time, store it in your fridge, and then bake it just when you need it most.
By experimenting with sauces, proteins, and cheese blends, you’ll be able to personalize your breakfast lasagna to fit your dietary needs. Therefore, whether you’re hosting a relaxed Sunday brunch or simply looking for a fun way to combine your favorite ingredients, breakfast lasagna offers an easy, crowd-pleasing solution.
If you want more insights into assembling layered dishes, you might also find our article on Correct Layers for Lasagna helpful. Additionally, if you’re seeking more exciting breakfast ideas, consider trying our Easy High Protein Breakfast Ideas for added inspiration. Enjoy creating this filling, flavorful, and flexible recipe that’s certain to become a staple in your household.