Pancake Sausage Casserole: Ultimate Layered Breakfast Lasagna

The morning light was streaming through my kitchen window as the smell of maple and savory breakfast sausage filled the air. That first time I created this Pancake Sausage Casserole was a moment of culinary revelation – taking two breakfast favorites and transforming them into a single, spectacular dish that bridges the gap between breakfast and dinner. There’s something magical about watching the faces of family members light up when they realize their favorite pancakes and sausage have been reimagined in casserole form.

Did you know that according to recent food trend surveys, breakfast-for-dinner dishes have increased in popularity by 37% over the past two years? It’s no wonder this Pancake Sausage Casserole has become my most requested recipe for family gatherings and potlucks alike.

Why This Pancake Sausage Casserole Is a Game-Changer

If you’re looking to expand your breakfast-for-dinner repertoire, this Pancake Sausage Casserole is the perfect addition. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Sausage Pancake Casserole Recipe that takes a similar approach with different seasonings. For a sheet pan variation, the Sheet Pan Sausage Cheese Pancakes offer a different texture profile. If you’re a fan of creative casseroles, you might also enjoy my Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole or Meatball Mashed Potato Bake for other meal options.

The Perfect Pancake Sausage Casserole Ingredients

Pancake Sausage Casserole ngredients

For the Pancake Layers:

• 3 cups pancake mix
• 2½ cups milk
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Substitution options: For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and plant-based butter. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free pancake mix.

For the Filling:

• 1½ lbs breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra richness)

Substitution options: Turkey sausage works wonderfully for a lighter option. For dairy sensitivities, dairy-free cheese alternatives will work, though they melt differently.

For Assembly:

• Butter for greasing
• Extra cheese for topping

The combination of soft, slightly sweet pancakes with savory, seasoned sausage creates a textural and flavor contrast that makes this Pancake Sausage Casserole so irresistible. The first bite delivers the familiar comfort of pancakes, followed by the satisfying heartiness of sausage, all bound together with melty, gooey cheese.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pancake Mix

The foundation of our casserole provides structure while maintaining a tender texture. The mix already contains leavening agents and flour, making prep easier.

Breakfast Sausage

The star protein adds a savory depth that counterbalances the sweetness of the pancakes. When browned properly, it develops caramelized edges that add texture contrast.

Cheese Blend

The combination of sharp cheddar and stretchy mozzarella creates the perfect cheese pull while adding richness. The cheddar brings flavor while the mozzarella contributes that Instagram-worthy stretch.

Cream Cheese

Though optional, this secret ingredient adds a tangy richness that elevates the entire dish. It creates pockets of creamy goodness throughout the casserole.

Timing Your Pancake Sausage Casserole

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

This Pancake Sausage Casserole comes together 15% faster than traditional lasagna while delivering similar layered satisfaction. The beauty is in being able to make the pancakes ahead of time – perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table with minimal fuss.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pancake Layers

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups pancake mix, 2½ cups milk, 3 eggs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
2. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes – this allows the gluten to relax and results in more tender pancakes.
3. Heat a large non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. I like to test it by flicking a few drops of water – if they dance across the surface, you’re good to go.
4. Pour about ⅓ cup batter for each pancake, making 6-8 thin pancake rounds (approximately 8-9 inches in diameter).
5. Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2 minutes), then flip carefully and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
6. Set aside on a cooling rack rather than stacking them – this prevents them from becoming soggy.

Chef’s Tip: Keep the heat at medium, not high. High heat will brown the outside before the inside cooks through.

Step 2: Prepare for Assembly

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center.
2. Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter, getting into all the corners.
3. In a bowl, combine the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, reserving about ½ cup for the final topping.
4. If using cream cheese, cut it into small pieces for easier distribution.

Chef’s Tip: A glass baking dish allows you to see the beautiful layers of your Pancake Sausage Casserole as they bake.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

1. Place 2 pancakes on the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping them slightly if needed to cover the surface.
2. Distribute ⅓ of the cooked sausage evenly over the pancakes, breaking up any large chunks.
3. Sprinkle ⅓ of the cheese mixture over the sausage layer.
4. Add 2 more pancakes to create the second layer.
5. Add another ⅓ of the sausage followed by ⅓ of the cheese mixture.
6. Place the remaining pancakes for the final pancake layer.
7. Top with the remaining sausage and finish with the reserved cheese for a beautifully golden top.

Chef’s Tip: Press down gently on each layer to compact it slightly – this helps with serving later.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, tenting it slightly to avoid the cheese sticking.
2. Bake covered for 20 minutes to heat through.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and developing golden brown spots.
4. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting – this crucial step allows the layers to set.

Chef’s Tip: Place a baking sheet on the rack below your casserole to catch any potential cheese drips.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Cut your Pancake Sausage Casserole into squares and serve with optional drizzles of maple syrup or hot sauce depending on whether you’re leaning more breakfast or dinner!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pancake Sausage Casserole

1. 
   

   Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the pancakes and cook the sausage the day before. Then assembly takes just minutes before baking.

   
   
2. 
   

   Pancake Perfection: Don’t overmix the pancake batter – a few lumps are fine and will result in more tender pancakes.

   
   
3. 
   

   Cheese Strategy: Reserve the finest shreds of cheese for the top layer to get that Instagram-worthy cheese pull.

   
   
4. 
   

   Temperature Matters: Make sure your casserole is hot all the way through before removing the foil – this ensures the cheese melts perfectly.

   
   
5. 
   

   Resting is Essential: The 10-minute rest after baking isn’t optional! It allows the layers to set and makes for cleaner slices.

   
   

Recipe Variations & Substitutions for Your Pancake Sausage Casserole

Southwest Fiesta Version

Add a can of drained green chilies, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and serve with avocado and salsa instead of syrup.

Veggie-Loaded Option

Mix finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms into the sausage layer for added nutrition and flavor complexity.

Sweet & Savory Upgrade

Add a layer of thinly sliced apples between the pancake and sausage layers. The subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.

Mini Individual Casseroles

Use smaller pancakes and assemble in ramekins for personalized breakfast casseroles – perfect for brunch gatherings.

Behind the Pancake Sausage Casserole

This Pancake Sausage Casserole was born one Sunday morning when faced with leftover pancakes and breakfast sausage. Rather than simply reheating, I wondered what would happen if I transformed them into something new. Taking inspiration from classic Italian lasagna construction, I layered everything with cheese and the results were an immediate family favorite.

What makes this casserole special is how it honors the traditional pairing of pancakes and sausage while creating something entirely new – a dish that works just as well for brunch as it does for a cozy evening meal.

Pairing Ideas

• Fresh Fruit Salad: The brightness of berries and citrus cuts through the richness of the Pancake Sausage Casserole.
• Simple Green Salad: A lightly dressed arugula salad provides a peppery contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: When serving for dinner, roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes offer complementary flavors.
• Beverages: Coffee, hot chocolate, or sparkling water with citrus all pair beautifully.

Leftover & Reuse Ideas

Leftover Pancake Sausage Casserole is a treasure! Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:

1. Breakfast Burritos: Chop up leftover casserole, warm it, and wrap in a tortilla with fresh avocado.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Use the casserole as a filling for halved bell peppers, top with more cheese, and bake.
3. Savory Waffles: Press cold casserole pieces in a waffle iron for a crispy transformation.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Pancake Sausage Casserole contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 890mg

Note: Values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation of your Pancake Sausage Casserole:

1. Family-Style: Bring the entire casserole to the table in the baking dish, showing off its golden top.
2. Plated Service: Use a spatula to carefully lift out portions, maintaining the layers. Add a small side of mixed berries for color.
3. Brunch Buffet: Pre-cut into squares and arrange on a warming tray with syrup in a small pitcher alongside.
4. Garnish Ideas: A light dusting of powdered sugar, fresh herb sprigs, or a drizzle of maple syrup adds that final touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing Pancake Batter: This develops gluten and makes tough pancakes. Mix just until combined.
2. Skipping the Rest Time: Both before baking (letting pancake batter rest) and after (letting the casserole set) are crucial steps.
3. Overcrowding the Pan: When making pancakes, give them space to expand.
4. Too Much Cheese: While tempting, excess cheese can make the casserole greasy. Stick to the measurements.
5. Serving Immediately: Cutting too soon results in a messy casserole that doesn’t hold its shape.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Pancake Sausage Casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Cut into individual portions, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Microwave reheating works in a pinch (2 minutes on medium power) but may affect texture.
• Meal Prep: You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Keep refrigerated and add 10 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs About Pancake Sausage Casserole

Can I make Pancake Sausage Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for make-ahead preparation. Assemble completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Pancake Sausage Casserole?

Yes, this Pancake Sausage Casserole freezes beautifully. You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Already-baked casserole should be thawed and reheated until the center reaches 165°F.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Pancake Sausage Casserole?

For best results, reheat covered in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. This preserves the texture better than microwaving, though a quick zap works in a pinch.

Can I use homemade pancakes instead of mix for my Pancake Sausage Casserole?

Definitely! Homemade pancakes work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure they’re not too thick or they’ll overwhelm the other ingredients.

What can I serve with Pancake Sausage Casserole?

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup. For breakfast or brunch, coffee and juice complete the meal.

Conclusion

Pancake Sausage Casserole

This Pancake Sausage Casserole brings together the best of breakfast and dinner in one magnificent dish. With its layers of fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any meal of the day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – it can be prepped ahead, customized with your favorite add-ins, and enjoyed by the whole family.

Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch, preparing a comforting dinner, or looking for a potluck showstopper, this casserole delivers on both flavor and convenience. The combination of sweet and savory elements makes it uniquely satisfying and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Made these Pancake Sausage Casserole? Drop your twist in the comments, rate the recipe, and tag us on facebook, instagram with #erinrecipes — we might feature your creation!

Pancake Sausage Casserole

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• Author: Erin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x

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Description

This Pancake Sausage Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and melty cheese into a unique breakfast or brunch masterpiece. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe layers pancake ‘lasagna-style’ with sausage and cheese for a show-stopping meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pancake Layers:

• 3 cups pancake mix
• 2½ cups milk
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1½ lbs breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra richness)

For Assembly:

• Butter for greasing
• Extra cheese for topping

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Instructions

1. Make the Pancake Layers: In a mixing bowl, combine pancake mix, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour batter to make 6-8 thin pancake rounds (about 8-9 inches in diameter). Cook each pancake until golden brown on both sides. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare for Assembly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses together in a bowl.
3. Layer the ‘Lasagna’: Place 2 pancakes in the baking dish as the first layer. Add ⅓ of the cooked sausage, followed by ⅓ of the cheese mixture. Repeat with 2 more pancakes, another ⅓ of sausage, and ⅓ of cheese. Top with the remaining pancakes, sausage, and cheese.
4. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting.
5. Serve: Cut into squares and serve with maple syrup or hot sauce for added flavor!

Notes

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pancake Sausage Casserole:

• Pancake Thickness: Make the pancakes thin and even for easier layering.
• Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a perfect balance of flavor and meltiness.
• Optional Cream Cheese: Adding softened cream cheese to the layers creates extra richness and creaminess.
• Rest Before Cutting: Letting the casserole rest ensures clean, neat slices.
• Serving Suggestions: Offer both sweet (maple syrup) and savory (hot sauce) options to cater to different tastes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: pancake sausage casserole, breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, pancake lasagna