Tasty Breakfast Lasagna

This layered brunch dish is a total hit. It blends cinnamon raisin toast, fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, melty cheddar, and crispy hash browns for a filling morning treat when you want something a bit different.

The first time I served this at a family brunch, it vanished way too fast. Now it’s my go-to for holidays or feeding a crowd.

What You Need

• Half a dozen big eggs: these give the French toast its nice richness and hold together well
• Whole milk: keeps scrambled eggs and toast creamy but light
• Vanilla: adds a cozy, warm note that boosts the sweet flavor
• Sugar and cinnamon: give the bread that classic comforting smell and taste
• Cinnamon raisin bread: sweet and sturdy, perfect for layering without falling apart
• Butter: browns the toast and eggs for golden color and extra flavor
• Extra-large eggs: for fluffy scrambled eggs loaded with protein
• Jones Dairy Farm ham without bones: adds salty, meaty flavor; thicker slices work best
• Sharp cheddar: melts great and gives a tangy pop; freshly shredded cheese avoids clumps
• Hash browns: provide a crunchy topping; fresh or frozen shredded works well
• Olive oil: drizzled on hash browns to help them roast crisp and golden

How To Make It

French Toast Part:

Mix eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Heat butter in a skillet on medium. Dip slices from the cinnamon raisin bread one by one into the egg mix but don’t soak for too long. Fry each side until golden, letting the bread puff up a bit and get a light crust. Set the cooked slices aside while you finish the rest.

Scrambled Eggs Prep:

While toasting bread, whisk a new batch of eggs with milk, salt, and pepper. Melt butter in the same or a different pan over medium heat, pour half the eggs in, and stir gently. Cook until soft curds form but eggs are still moist. Drain on paper towels to get rid of extra liquid. Repeat with the rest of the butter and eggs for an even scramble.

Putting It Together:

Heat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 baking dish for easy cleanup and even baking. Layer French toast pieces to cover the bottom, breaking to fit as needed. Pour half the syrup evenly on top. Add half the scrambled eggs and ham next. Sprinkle on half the cheese. Repeat all layers again with the rest.

Top and Oven Time:

Evenly spread hash browns over the top layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper for crispiness. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until hash browns are nicely cooked and edges brown. Scatter remaining cheddar on top and bake another 10 minutes to melt it. For a bubbly golden finish, switch the oven to broil on high and watch closely for around 2-3 minutes to avoid burning. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing so it firms up. Serve with extra syrup if you like it sweeter.

The cinnamon raisin bread really shines here with its sweet flavor and chewy texture, balancing the salty layers well. I’ll never forget the first time I made this for family; everyone was blown away that breakfast could feel this indulgent and filling.

How To Store

Wrap leftovers tight in foil or plastic to lock in moisture. Heat slices back up in a toaster oven or regular oven at medium heat for best texture. Avoid microwaves since they make it soggy. Keeps in the fridge up to four days, perfect for quick breakfasts during the week.

Switch It Up

You can swap ham out for cooked bacon or sausage to change the flavor. Try different breads like brioche if you want richer taste or whole grain to add fiber. Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want something milder.

Serve With

Pair with fresh fruit or a simple green salad to cut through the richness. Offer maple syrup or hot sauce depending on whether guests want sweet or spicy. A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creamy contrast.

This layered morning dish is a crowd favorite that gathers folks around with tasty layers. Have fun making it and sharing with others.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ Which bread is best for making the layers?

Cinnamon raisin bread works great since it’s sweet, a bit spicy, and stands up well when soaked in the egg mixture.

→ Can I switch out ham for other meats?

You sure can. Bacon or sausage make tasty substitutes that change up the savory flavor in a nice way.

→ How do I keep hash browns from getting soggy?

Coating hash browns with olive oil and seasoning before baking helps keep them crispy on top of the dish.

→ Why add syrup between the layers?

The syrup gives a little sweet kick that balances out all the savory flavors nicely.

→ Is it okay to add veggies to the scrambled eggs?

Definitely. Chopped spinach or mushrooms add some nutrients and earthy flavors that go well with the eggs and cheese.