Are you tired of scrambling to get a delicious brunch on the table? Do you want to impress your guests with a perfectly cooked meal, without sacrificing precious morning hours in the kitchen? Look no further! Make-ahead brunch recipes are here to save the day. These 20 scrumptious and easy-to-prepare dishes will have your brunch game stronger than ever.
From sweet treats like Chocolate Chip Pancake Bake and Banana Bread Muffins with Streusel Topping, to savory delights like Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole and Spinach and Feta Breakfast Strata, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or a holiday feast, these make-ahead recipes will give you the confidence to focus on what really matters – enjoying quality time with your loved ones.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of make-ahead brunching, exploring the best and most delicious recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s get started!
Overnight French Toast Casserole
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast by preparing this Overnight French Toast Casserole the night before. With its layers of bread, eggs, and creamy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (12-16 slices), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Add heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
3. Add cinnamon and nutmeg; whisk to combine.
4. Pour egg mixture over bread cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight (10-12 hours).
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Breakfast Strata
A flavorful breakfast strata packed with spinach, feta cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, feta cheese, spinach, salt, and pepper.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the strata is puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Make Ahead Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with these delicious breakfast burritos that can be prepared ahead of time and reheated as needed.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup scrambled eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and black beans.
3. Lay out a tortilla on a flat surface and spoon about 1/4 cup of the egg mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito up tightly.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
6. Place wrapped burritos on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Serve warm with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Chip Pancake Bake
Start your day with a sweet treat that combines the fluffiness of pancakes with the indulgent taste of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Pancake Bake!
Ham and Cheese Quiche Cups
Elevate your brunch game with these individual quiche cups packed with ham, cheese, and a hint of savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought), cut into 6-8 squares
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, diced ham, and egg.
3. Arrange the pie crust squares in a mini muffin tin or regular cupcake liners.
4. Divide the ham-egg mixture evenly among the cups.
5. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the filling.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the quiche is set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Overnight Oats
Start your day with a burst of citrusy freshness and sweetness! This recipe combines the best of both worlds – plump blueberries and zesty lemon – to create a deliciously unique oatmeal experience.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- In a jar or container, combine oats, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Add sliced blueberries on top of the oat mixture.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the blueberries and sprinkle with salt (if using).
- Refrigerate overnight for at least 4 hours or up to 8 hours. In the morning, give it a stir and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just chill out and let the magic happen.
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
A hearty breakfast casserole filled with juicy sausage, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese – perfect for feeding a crowd on the go!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange bread slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Add cooked sausage, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese on top of the bread.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetarian Breakfast Enchiladas
A twist on traditional enchiladas, these vegetarian breakfast wraps are a delicious and unique way to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup scrambled tofu or eggs
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the scrambled tofu or eggs, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning the filling onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Bread Muffins with Streusel Topping
Banana Bread Muffins with Streusel Topping Recipe Summary:
Moist banana bread muffins topped with a crumbly streusel topping, perfect for a breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
- Spoon batter into muffin tin lined with paper cups. Top each muffin with streusel topping.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix streusel topping ingredients until crumbly. Sprinkle on top of muffins before baking.
Sweet Potato Hash with Poached Eggs
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of poached eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, onion, and garlic until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a simmer and crack in the eggs.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
7. Serve the roasted sweet potato hash with the poached eggs on top and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Make Ahead Breakfast Sandwiches
Make Ahead Breakfast Sandwiches: A Convenient Morning Meal Solution!
These sandwiches are perfect for busy mornings when you need a grab-and-go breakfast that’s still delicious and satisfying. By assembling the components ahead of time, you can save time in the morning while still enjoying a hot, fresh sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 English muffins
– 8 slices of cheese (such as cheddar or American)
– 1 dozen eggs
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 4 sausage patties or 4 slices of cooked bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Butter the English muffins.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cheese slice on each muffin half, followed by a cooked egg, a sausage patty or bacon slice, and finishing with another muffin half.
4. Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this comforting and delicious baked oatmeal recipe, packed with the flavors of apples and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: 1/2 cup diced walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, milk, apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 1-quart ceramic bowl.
5. If using walnuts, sprinkle on top of the oatmeal mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the oatmeal is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Prosciutto and Asparagus Frittata
A classic Italian-inspired breakfast or brunch option that combines the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto with the tender sweetness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup diced prosciutto (about 4 slices)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus in the skillet.
6. Sprinkle the cooked prosciutto over the top of the eggs.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Croissant Pudding
Treat yourself to a decadent dessert that combines the buttery flakiness of croissants with the richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ounces high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Place the chocolate chips in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
5. Pour the milk mixture over the chocolate, making sure it’s fully covered.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a croissant shape.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Breakfast Potatoes with Bell Peppers and Onions
Breakfast Potatoes with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe
Start your day off right with these flavorful and nutritious breakfast potatoes packed with bell peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, onion, and bell peppers.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
6. Arrange the potato mixture in a single layer, leaving some space between each slice.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Make Ahead Granola with Yogurt and Berries
Make Ahead Granola with Yogurt and Berries
Start your day off right with a healthy and delicious breakfast or snack made easy with this make-ahead granola recipe. Combine crunchy granola with creamy yogurt and sweet berries for a satisfying treat.
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, etc.)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 ounces Greek yogurt
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, nuts, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Spoon the granola mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- To serve, combine the cooled granola with yogurt and berries. Enjoy!
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Waffles with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a delicious and seasonal treat – these Pumpkin Spice Waffles with Maple Syrup are perfect for fall mornings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel Bake
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory bagel bake, featuring smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-inch) bagel
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bagel in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, smoked salmon, and chopped fresh dill.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto the bagel halves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bagel is toasted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Mushroom
These bite-sized quiches are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini muffin tin liners (12-15 count)
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing the tin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add the spinach, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Grease the mini muffin tin liners with cooking spray or oil.
5. Pour the quiche mixture into each liner, filling about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Allow the quiches to cool in the tin for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peach and Pecan Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and crunchy twist on classic French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. While the French toast is cooking, mix together the diced peaches and chopped pecans in a small bowl.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, spread about 1 tablespoon of melted butter on each slice, followed by a spoonful of the peach-pecan mixture.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious make-ahead brunch recipes! From sweet treats like Chocolate Chip Pancake Bake and Banana Bread Muffins to savory dishes like Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole and Spinach and Feta Breakfast Strata, there’s something for everyone. Perfect for busy mornings or special occasions, these recipes can be prepared ahead of time and served with ease. Whether you’re a morning person or not, these mouthwatering brunch ideas are sure to start your day off right.
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