Craving breakfast but it’s already dinner time? No worries! Breakfast for dinner isn’t just a fun twist on your usual nightly meal; it can also be quick, easy, and delicious. From savory omelets to fluffy pancakes, the possibilities are endless. This article will explore a variety of breakfast recipes that are perfect for dinner, offering something for everyone in the family.
Breakfast dishes are often comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction at the end of a long day. By bringing breakfast to the dinner table, you can enjoy familiar flavors in new and exciting ways. Whether you’re in the mood for eggs, pancakes, or even breakfast casseroles, these recipes are sure to inspire.
1) Ham and Cheese Crepes
Ham and cheese crepes bring a touch of sophistication to your breakfast-for-dinner menu. Start by making thin crepes using flour, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix the batter until smooth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
Once the crepes are ready, cook scrambled eggs until fluffy but still moist. Let the eggs cool to room temperature. On each crepe, lightly brush with Dijon mustard. Add shredded cheese, a slice of ham, and a spoonful of the eggs.
Roll up the crepes and place them in a baking dish. Cover with more cheese and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also drizzle a béchamel sauce on top for extra richness.
These crepes are filled with savory goodness and are easy to prepare. They make a satisfying and delicious dinner option for any night of the week. Serve hot and enjoy!
2) Blueberry Pancakes
Blueberry pancakes make a delicious breakfast for dinner option.
Start by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and a bit of sugar in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined. Your batter should be a bit lumpy.
Gently fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-low heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray or butter. Pour about a quarter-cup of batter for each pancake.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook until the other side is golden brown. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Blueberry pancakes are fluffy and bursting with juicy blueberries in every bite. They pair well with scrambled eggs or a side of bacon for a complete meal. For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat flour or add a touch of oats.
3) Irish Breakfast Casserole
Want a hearty meal that feels like comfort food? Try an Irish Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines classic breakfast ingredients into a single, delicious bake.
Start by cooking potatoes until they turn golden, about 6-8 minutes per side. Season them with rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Next, add a mix of corned beef and cheese to the potatoes. Stir everything to combine well. Season again with salt and pepper.
This casserole is perfect for breakfast or dinner. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Serve it hot, and enjoy the delicious taste of Ireland right at your table.
4) Cheesy Bacon Hash Browns
Cheesy Bacon Hash Browns are a comfort food favorite. They are easy to make and perfect for breakfast or dinner.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Then, grease an 8-inch square casserole dish.
In a large bowl, mix together eggs, milk, and your choice of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Layer half of your potatoes, bacon, and cheese in the prepared pan. Add some chopped onions for extra flavor.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure it covers all the layers.
Cover the pan with foil and bake for about an hour. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes to let the top become golden and crispy.
Let it cool slightly before serving. These hash browns are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with a delicious blend of cheese and bacon. Enjoy!
5) Mediterranean Frittata
A Mediterranean Frittata makes a delicious and nutritious dinner option. This dish combines wholesome ingredients like eggs, spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease an oven-safe dish with olive oil. You start by preparing the vegetables. Slice cherry tomatoes, dice a red onion, and chop fresh spinach.
Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk them well. You can add a bit of salt and pepper for seasoning. Add the prepared vegetables into the egg mixture.
Crumble feta cheese over the mixture and mix to combine. Pour the mixture into the greased dish.
Bake for about 18-20 minutes. Once the frittata is firm and slightly golden on top, remove from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
It’s great for a quick and easy meal any night of the week.
6) Sausage Gravy and Biscuits
Sausage Gravy and Biscuits is a classic comfort food and perfect for breakfast for dinner.
Start with making homemade biscuits. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the texture is crumbly. Add milk, mix to form a dough, and drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown.
While the biscuits are baking, cook your sausage. Brown it in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the sausage is cooked, add flour and stir until the meat is well coated. Slowly pour in milk, stirring constantly. Keep cooking until the gravy thickens.
Season the gravy with black pepper and optional spices like thyme or red pepper flakes.
When the biscuits are done, split them open and pour the sausage gravy on top. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal.
7) Vegetable Omelet
A vegetable omelet is a delicious and nutritious choice for breakfast or dinner. Start by melting half of the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Next, add the remaining butter to the pan and let it melt. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the whisked eggs over the veggies. Spread the eggs evenly in the pan by tilting it or using a spatula.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until the bottom is lightly browned and the top is just cooked. Add the cooked vegetables to one half of the omelet. Fold the omelet over the veggies and transfer it to a plate.
Serve your vegetable omelet hot. You can also customize it by adding ingredients like spinach, cheese, or tomatoes. Enjoy your meal!
8) Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
For a fulfilling breakfast-for-dinner option, try Avocado Toast with Poached Egg. It combines creamy avocado with a perfectly poached egg.
Start by toasting a slice of whole-grain bread. While it’s toasting, mash a ripe avocado, adding a pinch of salt and lemon juice for extra flavor.
To poach the egg, bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Create a gentle vortex by stirring the water.
Carefully crack an egg into a small bowl and slide it into the middle of the pot. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes, depending on how soft you like your yolk.
Use a slotted spoon to lift the egg out of the water and let any excess water drain. Spread the mashed avocado on the toast, then place the poached egg on top.
Sprinkle with additional salt, pepper, and maybe some red pepper flakes or herbs for a bit more flavor. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal.
9) Chicken and Waffles
Chicken and waffles make a great choice for breakfast or dinner. Crispy fried chicken pairs perfectly with soft, fluffy waffles. The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes this dish special.
Start by preparing the chicken. Marinate chicken pieces in milk for about 5 minutes. Coat each piece in a mixture of flour, paprika, and salt. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
For the waffles, follow the instructions on your waffle mix box. Cook the batter in a waffle maker until the waffles are golden and crisp.
A drizzle of warm maple syrup ties the dish together. Heat the syrup to a boil, then simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Pour over the chicken and waffles for a delicious finishing touch.
If you want a twist, try making chicken and waffle sliders. Use smaller pieces of chicken and waffle sections, adding a fried egg or sauce between layers. This makes a fun and easy-to-eat option.
10) Stuffed French Toast
Stuffed French toast is a delicious twist on the classic breakfast dish. It combines the best of French toast with a variety of flavorful fillings.
To make stuffed French toast, first prepare your filling. Popular options include cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit like blueberries and strawberries.
Cut thick slices of bread and make a pocket by slicing it horizontally. Spread your filling inside the pocket.
Next, prepare the egg mixture. Combine eggs, milk, and a bit of vanilla extract. Soak each stuffed slice in the mixture for a few seconds.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter. Place the soaked bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Serve your stuffed French toast hot with toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit. This makes a great breakfast-for-dinner option that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
11) Shakshuka
Shakshuka is an amazing dish featuring eggs poached in a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for breakfast or dinner.
You start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Add onions, peppers, and garlic, cooking until they’re soft. Then, you mix in spices like paprika, cumin, and cayenne.
Next, add tomatoes and let everything simmer until the sauce thickens. Create small wells in the sauce with a spoon and crack eggs into them.
Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are just set. Serve with warm bread for dipping. This delicious meal is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
12) Maple Syrup Glazed Bacon
Maple syrup glazed bacon is a sweet and savory treat perfect for breakfast or dinner. It combines crispy bacon with a rich maple syrup coating, giving it an irresistible flavor.
To make this dish, start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon strips in a single layer.
Bake the bacon in the oven for 8 minutes. While it bakes, mix together maple syrup, hot sauce, and a bit of garlic in a small bowl. This will be your glaze.
Remove the bacon from the oven and brush one side with the maple syrup mixture. Return the bacon to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, until the glaze is sticky and the bacon is shiny.
Flip the bacon slices over using tongs and glaze the other side. Bake for a few more minutes until both sides are nicely browned and sticky.
Let the bacon cool slightly on a wire rack. This helps it stay crisp. Serve it warm and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet maple and savory bacon.
This dish is simple to make and adds a flavorful twist to your usual bacon. It’s great on its own or as a side to pancakes or waffles.
13) Breakfast Burrito
A breakfast burrito is a versatile and hearty meal. It combines simple ingredients into a delicious wrap. You can tailor it to your taste by adding different fillings.
Start with a large flour tortilla. Fill it with scrambled eggs. Add some cooked sausage or bacon.
Vegetables are great to include too. Try adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, and spinach. These add color and nutrients.
Cheese is a must for many people. A good choice is shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack. Fold it into the eggs while they’re cooking for extra creaminess.
Don’t forget the avocado. Adding sliced avocado or guacamole brings a rich, creamy texture. You can also toss in some fresh salsa or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
For those in a hurry, a breakfast burrito can be made ahead. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze. It’s easy to reheat in the microwave or oven.
This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s filling and can be customized to suit any preference. So, go ahead and enjoy a breakfast burrito any time of day.
14) Overnight Oats with Fruit
Overnight oats with fruit are a simple and nutritious option for a breakfast-for-dinner meal. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
Start by mixing old-fashioned oats with milk or a dairy-free alternative. Add in a spoonful of chia seeds for extra fiber.
Choose your favorite fruits to add flavor and natural sweetness. Berries, bananas, and apples are popular choices. You can also try using stone fruits like cherries or peaches.
Combine the oats, milk, and fruits in a mason jar or bowl. Stir well and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.
When you’re ready to eat, give the oats a good stir. If they seem too thick, add a splash more milk. Enjoy your overnight oats cold for a refreshing meal or warm them up in the microwave.
Try experimenting with different fruit combinations and add-ins like nuts or yogurt for added texture and flavor.
15) Croissant Breakfast Sandwich
If you love breakfast for dinner, try a croissant breakfast sandwich. Start by cooking your bacon until it is crispy. Then, in a bowl, beat some eggs with salt and pepper. Cook the eggs in butter until they are fluffy.
Next, slice your croissants in half and toast them lightly. Once they are toasted, layer scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese inside each croissant. You can use cheddar, Swiss, or any cheese you like.
For a nice touch, you can also add some ham or sausage. If you want a more gourmet flavor, spread a little Dijon mustard on the croissant.
Assemble the sandwiches and place them in a pan on low heat. Cook until the cheese melts. This ensures everything is warm and the flavors meld together nicely.
Serve your croissant breakfast sandwiches immediately. They make a perfect dinner option that is both satisfying and quick to prepare.
16) Greek Yogurt Parfait
Greek yogurt parfaits are a simple yet satisfying choice for breakfast-for-dinner. They blend creamy yogurt, fresh fruits, and crunchy granola.
Start by placing a layer of Greek yogurt in a bowl or mason jar. Add a layer of mixed berries. Repeat these layers until your container is full.
Top with a handful of granola for added crunch. Drizzle with honey if you like a bit more sweetness.
You can prepare these parfaits in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and they will stay fresh for up to five days.
Experiment with different fruits and toppings to keep things interesting. Sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can add variety.
Greek yogurt parfaits are a healthy, delicious way to enjoy breakfast foods at any time of day.
17) Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic pancake. They’re fluffy and light, with a hint of lemon that adds freshness and a subtle, tangy flavor.
To make these pancakes, start by mixing the dry ingredients in a bowl: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter so your pancakes stay fluffy.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a bit of butter to coat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
Serve your Lemon Ricotta Pancakes warm with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re perfect for breakfast, but they also make a wonderful “breakfast for dinner” treat.
18) Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict is a classic dish that brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table. You start with a toasted English muffin as the base. On top of that, you place a slice of Canadian bacon or ham.
Next, you poach an egg until the whites are set but the yolk remains runny. Carefully place the poached egg on the ham.
For the hollandaise sauce, blend egg yolks, lemon juice, and melted butter until it thickens. Season with salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Drizzle this creamy sauce over your poached egg stack.
Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor. Enjoy this savory treat any time of the day, especially for a special dinner.
19) Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers make a tasty and healthy choice for breakfast for dinner. The combination of flavors is satisfying and nutritious.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Steam the pepper tops and bases for about 7 minutes until slightly tender. Let them drain.
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add chopped scallions and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the spinach and sauté until it wilts. Remove from heat and mix in crumbled feta cheese.
Stuff the peppers with the spinach and feta mixture. Place them in a baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes until the peppers are soft and the filling is heated through.
These stuffed peppers are a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal. You can also prepare them ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to eat. Enjoy the delightful combination of spinach and feta in every bite.
20) Toad in the Hole
Toad in the Hole is a classic English dish that combines savory sausage with a simple batter. It’s great for a hearty breakfast but works just as well for dinner. You start by making a basic batter with flour, eggs, and milk.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, pour a bit of oil into a baking dish and add your favorite sausages. Bake the sausages for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
As the sausages cook, prepare the batter. Whisk together flour, salt, eggs, and milk until smooth. Pour this batter over the partially cooked sausages.
Bake for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the batter is puffed and golden brown. Serve hot, and you have a delicious meal perfect for any time of day.
21) Sweet Potato Hash
Sweet potato hash is a perfect choice for breakfast for dinner. It’s hearty, nutritious, and easy to make. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients.
Start by peeling and dicing sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Microwave them for 3 minutes to soften. This step ensures they cook evenly.
Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potatoes and toss them to coat in the oil. Spread them out in a single layer.
Next, add diced red pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the sweet potatoes are golden brown.
If you like bacon, you can cook some in a separate pan and then add it to the hash. Additionally, create small wells in the hash and crack an egg into each. Cook until the eggs are set to your liking.
For a final touch, mix in some fresh greens like kale or spinach and cook until wilted. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious sweet potato hash!
22) Brunch Pizza
Brunch pizza combines all your favorite breakfast items on a delicious pizza crust. You can use a traditional round or try a rectangular artisan crust for a twist.
Get creative with toppings. Add veggies like asparagus, tomatoes, and spinach. Don’t forget key breakfast ingredients like cheese and eggs.
Crack an egg on top before baking for extra protein. You can also sprinkle some cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier meal.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F until the crust is crispy and the egg is cooked to your liking. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful brunch pizza!
23) Mexican Chilaquiles
Mexican Chilaquiles is a delicious and versatile dish. You can choose between red or green salsa depending on your taste preference.
First, blend your chosen salsa until smooth. Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour in the salsa and cook for about 5 minutes.
Next, add your tortilla chips to the pan. For a crispy texture, pour the salsa over baked or fried tortillas. For a softer texture, mix the chips into the salsa.
If you want to add eggs, make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into them. Season with salt and pepper, then bake in the oven until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
You can customize your Chilaquiles by adding toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro. This dish can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
24) Cinnamon Roll Casserole
If you love the taste of cinnamon rolls, you will enjoy this Cinnamon Roll Casserole. It’s a great option for breakfast for dinner.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Generously butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cut each round of cinnamon roll dough into 4 pieces. Place the pieces into the prepared baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces.
For extra flavor, sprinkle pecans and drizzle maple syrup on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the casserole to cool for 15 minutes. Microwave the icing for a few seconds and drizzle over the cooled casserole.
This dish is best served warm and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
25) Bagel with Lox and Cream Cheese
Bagel with lox and cream cheese makes a perfect choice for breakfast or dinner. This dish is simple to prepare but offers a satisfying and rich flavor.
Start with a fresh bagel. Choose your favorite type—plain, sesame, or everything. Toast it lightly to add a bit of crunch.
Next, spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each half. This creamy base pairs perfectly with the smoky lox.
Add thin slices of lox on top of the cream cheese. You can usually find lox at most grocery stores, often near the seafood section.
To elevate the dish, add a few capers, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh dill. These toppings add a burst of flavor and texture.
For an extra touch, consider adding a few slices of ripe tomato and some cucumber. These fresh veggies bring a nice balance to the richness of the cream cheese and lox.
Bagel with lox and cream cheese is a versatile meal. It is easy to make and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Enjoy it with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Health Benefits of Having Breakfast for Dinner
Having breakfast for dinner can offer several health benefits, such as providing essential nutrients and promoting balanced meals. This practice can lead to better eating habits and overall wellness.
Nutritional Value
Breakfast foods often contain essential nutrients like fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. For example, eggs provide high-quality protein and vitamin B12. Whole-grain cereals and breads contribute important dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels.
Fruits and vegetables commonly found in breakfast dishes add vitamins and antioxidants to your meal. These nutrients support immune function and overall health. Including ingredients like avocado or nuts can also supply healthy fats, beneficial for heart health and brain function.
Dairy options, such as milk and yogurt, are rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health. When you choose breakfast for dinner, you’re diversifying your nutrient intake and ensuring that you consume a range of important nutrients.
Balanced Meals
Eating breakfast foods for dinner can help you create well-balanced meals. Breakfast menus usually combine proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. For instance, an omelet with vegetables and a slice of whole-grain toast makes a balanced meal with proteins, fibers, and complex carbs.
You can also control portion sizes better with these meals. Breakfast dishes often come in simpler, easier-to-manage portions compared to heavy dinner options. This approach can help you avoid overeating and better manage your weight.
Additionally, breakfast for dinner can be a lighter option, ideal for those who do not want a heavy meal before bedtime. Foods like fruit and yogurt, or a smoothie, can satisfy hunger without the discomfort that sometimes comes with a large dinner. This habit may improve sleep quality by preventing indigestion and promoting better rest.
Popular Breakfast Ingredients for Dinner
When it comes to breakfast for dinner, certain ingredients shine. These include classic items like eggs and whole grains, which are both versatile and satisfying.
Eggs
Eggs are a cornerstone of many breakfast-for-dinner dishes. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. You can make scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas, each offering different flavors and textures.
Cooking eggs is quick, making them perfect for a fast weeknight meal. For instance, a simple scrambled egg dish can be amped up with cheese, vegetables, or even some leftover meats.
Eggs are also nutritious, packed with protein and essential vitamins. This makes them a filling option that can keep you satisfied through the evening.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are another excellent choice for breakfast-for-dinner meals. Whether you choose oatmeal, whole grain bread, or even quinoa, these ingredients are both hearty and healthy.
Oatmeal is a comforting option that can be topped with both sweet and savory ingredients, such as fruits, nuts, or a fried egg. Whole grain bread can be used to make sandwiches, avocado toast, or bread pudding.
These grains provide fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and can help keep you full. They are also versatile, easily adapted to suit whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Tips for Preparing Breakfast for Dinner
Preparing breakfast for dinner can be a fun and satisfying experience. You can make it quicker and easier by choosing simple recipes or by focusing on family-friendly options that everyone will love.
Quick and Easy Recipes
To save time, choose recipes with minimal ingredients and short cooking times.
For example, omelets are perfect because you only need eggs and a few fillings like cheese or vegetables. You can also try breakfast quesadillas, which are fast to prepare and can be loaded with scrambled eggs and cheese, then cooked on a skillet.
Smoothie bowls are another great option. Blend your favorite fruits with yogurt and top with granola or nuts. Finally, overnight oats can be prepared in advance and simply topped with fresh fruits and nuts when you’re ready to eat.
Using pre-cut vegetables and pre-cooked proteins like bacon or sausage can further cut down on prep time. Keeping a well-stocked pantry with items like tortillas, eggs, and cheese ensures you can quickly whip up a satisfying meal.
Family-Friendly Ideas
When cooking for the family, variety and customization are key.
Pancake or waffle bars allow each family member to add their favorite toppings, like berries, chocolate chips, and syrup. Breakfast pizzas can be made using pre-made dough and topped with eggs, cheese, and vegetables. This interactive cooking process can be fun for kids.
Frittatas are excellent for incorporating a variety of ingredients. You can use any vegetables, meats, and cheeses your family likes. Breakfast burritos also work well, as everyone can fill their tortilla with scrambled eggs, beans, and any other preferred fillings.
French toast offers a sweet option that can be served with fruit or syrup. Using fun-shaped molds or cutters can make these dishes more appealing to children. Preparing simple fruit salads alongside can add a fresh touch to the meal.
Tailoring meals to fit your family’s preferences ensures everyone enjoys breakfast for dinner.
