Brunch is that perfect meal between breakfast and lunch where you can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes.
From sweet options like fluffy pancakes and cinnamon rolls to savory choices such as frittatas and breakfast casseroles, brunch offers something for everyone at the table.
These 21 best brunch recipes will help you create a memorable meal whether you’re hosting friends on the weekend or treating your family to something special.
You’ll find tried-and-true favorites that are easy to prepare yet impressive enough for any occasion.
With options ranging from make-ahead casseroles to freshly baked goods, these recipes will make your next brunch gathering both delicious and stress-free.
1. Frittata with Spinach and Feta
A spinach and feta frittata makes a perfect brunch centerpiece that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs in a fluffy egg base.
You can prepare this versatile dish in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
The combination of leafy greens and salty cheese creates a balanced flavor profile that’s both satisfying and light.
What makes this frittata special is its versatility. You can serve it hot from the oven or chilled, making it perfect for make-ahead brunch planning.
Try adding tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
2. Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Cinnamon roll pancakes combine two breakfast favorites into one delicious dish. These pancakes feature swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar throughout fluffy buttermilk pancakes.
You can make these special pancakes by preparing a regular pancake batter, then creating a separate cinnamon-sugar mixture to swirl into each pancake while cooking. The sweet cinnamon filling caramelizes slightly as it cooks.
Top your finished pancakes with a cream cheese glaze for the ultimate breakfast treat.
This recipe gives you all the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll but takes less time to prepare.
These indulgent pancakes work well for special weekend breakfasts or holiday brunches when you want to impress your family.
3. Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
Avocado toast with a poached egg makes a perfect brunch dish that’s both healthy and delicious. You need just a few simple ingredients to create this satisfying meal.
Start with a thick slice of rustic country bread or 21-grain bread for a heartier option. Toast it until golden brown, then top with mashed avocado seasoned with lemon juice, sea salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
The star of this dish is the perfectly poached egg placed on top. When you cut into it, the runny yolk creates a natural sauce that enhances the creamy avocado.
For extra flavor, try adding thinly sliced radishes, pickled onions, or a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar.
4. Quiche Lorraine
Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that has become a staple for café-style brunches at home. This savory pie features a flaky crust filled with a rich mixture of eggs, cream, bacon, and cheese.
The combination of crispy bacon and creamy custard creates a perfect balance of flavors.
You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining guests.
Chef John’s recipe is popular for its rich, cheesy flavor that works well for both special brunches and simple weeknight suppers.
For variety, try adding spinach or asparagus to create your own twist on this traditional favorite.
5. Banana Nut French Toast
Banana Nut French Toast brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of walnuts for an amazing brunch treat. This dish takes only about 5 minutes to prepare.
To make this delicious meal, you’ll need sprouted grain bread, eggs, coconut milk, vanilla, cinnamon, coconut oil, and fresh bananas. The caramelized bananas add a special touch that elevates this dish.
For an extra indulgent version, try using banana bread instead of regular bread. The combination creates a rich, dessert-like breakfast that still delivers good nutrition.
Top your creation with maple syrup and additional nuts for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
6. Smoked Salmon Bagels
Smoked salmon bagels make an easy yet impressive brunch option. They require minimal cooking skills but deliver maximum flavor.
To create this dish, start with toasted bagels as your base. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each half.
Top with slices of smoked salmon, then add your favorite garnishes. Popular options include arugula, spinach, thinly sliced red onion, capers, and a squeeze of lemon.
For entertaining, consider setting up a bagel bar. Arrange bagels, cream cheese, salmon, and toppings separately so guests can build their own creations.
This versatile dish works for intimate brunches or larger gatherings. The combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors makes each bite delicious.
7. Blueberry Pancakes
Blueberry pancakes are a brunch classic that never disappoints. You can make fluffy, golden-brown pancakes with bursting blueberries right at home.
The basic ingredients are simple: flour, baking powder, sugar, vanilla, milk, and eggs. For the fluffiest pancakes, don’t overmix the batter – a few lumps are okay.
Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into your batter just before cooking. This prevents the berries from bleeding too much color into the batter.
Cook your pancakes on a medium-hot griddle until bubbles form on the surface, then flip to cook the other side to golden perfection.
8. Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict is a classic brunch dish loved for its rich flavors and elegant presentation. It consists of two halves of an English muffin topped with Canadian bacon or ham, poached eggs, and creamy hollandaise sauce.
You can try several delicious variations of this brunch staple.
Some popular options include using spinach and tomato slices for added freshness or creating baked potato versions for a heartier meal.
For a lighter version, you might enjoy making mock hollandaise sauce that reduces the calories while maintaining the flavor.
You can also prepare elements ahead of time with make-ahead Eggs Benedict toast cups for easier entertaining.
This versatile dish works well as a salad or baked casserole too, giving you plenty of options for your next brunch gathering.
9. Breakfast Burrito
Breakfast burritos are a versatile and satisfying brunch option you can enjoy any time of day. They typically combine eggs, cheese, and your choice of protein wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Popular fillings include breakfast sausage, chorizo, or bacon along with potatoes and onions. Adding fresh ingredients like avocado or salsa brings brightness to each bite.
You can prepare breakfast burritos ahead of time and freeze them for busy mornings. Simply warm them up when you’re ready to eat. They’re portable and customizable to suit your taste preferences.
For a complete meal, include a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in your breakfast burrito.
10. Maple Pecan Waffles
Maple Pecan Waffles combine the best breakfast flavors in one delicious dish. The fluffy waffles have crunchy pecans mixed into the batter, creating a delightful texture contrast.
You can make these waffles even more special by topping them with additional toasted pecans. The nutty flavor pairs perfectly with pure maple syrup drizzled over the top.
For an extra treat, try simmering your maple syrup with butter to create a thick, warming sauce. Fresh berries make an excellent side addition, bringing color and a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness.
These waffles work wonderfully for weekend brunches when you want something special but not complicated.
11. Tomato Basil Omelet
A Tomato Basil Omelet offers a fresh and satisfying option for your brunch menu. This classic combination brings together juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil in a fluffy egg base.
To prepare this dish, you’ll need large tomatoes (cored and peeled), olive oil, fresh basil, and eggs. Some recipes include additions like garlic, thyme, or a bay leaf for extra flavor.
For a more indulgent version, try adding cheese. Goat cheese offers a tangy contrast, while mozzarella creates a creamy texture reminiscent of a caprese salad.
You can also get creative with this recipe by turning it into a quesadilla. Simply fold your omelet into a tortilla for a unique twist on traditional breakfast fare.
12. Classic Crepes with Berries
Crepes are thin, delicate pancakes that make a perfect brunch option. You can prepare the batter ahead of time using simple ingredients like flour, eggs, milk, and a touch of butter.
For classic crepes with berries, you’ll want to make a basic crepe batter and then fill them with fresh seasonal berries. Raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries work wonderfully.
You can enhance your crepes with a creamy filling. A simple mixture similar to cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with the berries. Some people prefer a lighter option of just whipped cream.
The beauty of crepes is their versatility. You can top them with powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even Nutella for extra sweetness.
13. Savory Breakfast Strata
Breakfast strata is a wonderful make-ahead brunch option that combines bread, eggs, cheese, and your favorite add-ins. This layered casserole is similar to bread pudding but with a savory twist.
To make a basic strata, you’ll need cubed bread, beaten eggs, milk, cheese, and your choice of meat and vegetables. Sausage and cheddar make a classic combination.
The best part about strata is that you can assemble it the night before. Just let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
In the morning, bake your strata until it’s puffed and golden. The result is a hearty, flavor-packed dish perfect for feeding a crowd.
14. Brunch Ham Enchiladas
Brunch Ham Enchiladas combine breakfast favorites into one delicious dish. These enchiladas feature cubed ham, eggs, and plenty of cheese rolled up in flour tortillas.
What makes this recipe special is its make-ahead convenience. You can assemble them the day before and refrigerate overnight, making them perfect for hosting brunch gatherings.
The tortillas are covered in a creamy egg batter and baked until golden. Green onions add a fresh flavor that complements the savory ham.
This dish works great with leftover holiday ham from Easter or Christmas celebrations. Serve these hearty enchiladas as the centerpiece of your next brunch menu.
15. Buttermilk Biscuits and Gravy
Buttermilk biscuits and gravy make a perfect centerpiece for your brunch table. These flaky, soft buttermilk biscuits paired with rich, creamy sausage gravy create a classic comfort food combination.
The biscuits should be tender on the inside with buttery, flaky layers. You can prepare the dough quickly using cold butter cut into the flour mixture with a pastry blender.
The gravy comes together by cooking breakfast sausage and making a roux with the drippings. Add milk to create a thick, creamy sauce that’s seasoned just right.
For a surprising twist, try chocolate gravy with your biscuits for a sweet variation that works wonderfully for brunch.
16. Sourdough French Toast
Sourdough French toast offers a delicious twist on the breakfast classic. The tangy flavor of sourdough bread pairs perfectly with sweet toppings. This creates a more complex flavor profile than regular French toast.
This dish is perfect for using up stale sourdough bread. The slight sourness of the bread balances nicely with the sweet custard mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla.
You can prepare sourdough French toast in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weekend brunch. Top it with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a satisfying morning meal.
17. Honey Butter Croissants
Honey butter croissants are a delightful addition to any brunch table. You can make them in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
To prepare, you can use store-bought refrigerated croissant dough to save time. Melt butter in a pan and place your croissant on it.
Add honey on top of the croissant and flip to cook the other side. For a different approach, you can “smash” the croissant with a roller first for a unique texture.
These sweet, buttery treats pair perfectly with coffee or tea. They’re sure to impress your brunch guests without requiring advanced baking skills.
18. Hash Brown Egg Bake
Hash brown egg bakes combine the best of breakfast favorites into one dish. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch without much fuss.
Start with a layer of frozen hash browns in a greased baking dish. Add your favorite mix-ins like cooked sausage, bacon, or diced ham.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese – cheddar works great but feel free to experiment. Whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper, then pour over the hash brown mixture.
Bake until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can prepare this the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
19. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad brings bright, fresh flavors to your brunch table. This dish combines protein-packed quinoa with colorful vegetables for a healthy option that won’t weigh you down.
You can prepare this salad ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. The standard ingredients include tomatoes, cucumbers, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano ties everything together. Some versions add chickpeas for extra protein or a garlic yogurt sauce for creaminess.
This versatile dish works well as a standalone brunch item or as a side dish with grilled chicken.
20. Prosciutto and Melon
Prosciutto and melon is a classic Italian combo that makes a perfect brunch dish. The salty prosciutto pairs wonderfully with sweet, juicy melon for a refreshing balance of flavors.
To prepare this simple dish, slice your favorite melon (cantaloupe works great) into thin wedges. Wrap each piece with a slice of thinly cut prosciutto.
For an elegant presentation, you can serve them on skewers as appetizers. This makes it easy for your guests to grab and enjoy.
You can elevate this dish with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. It’s so simple yet impressive for your next brunch gathering.
21. Savory Scones with Cheese
Savory scones with cheese make a delicious addition to your brunch menu. These flaky, soft treats are loaded with cheddar cheese flavor and can be customized with add-ins like ham, chives, and garlic powder.
To make these scones, you’ll need all-purpose flour, a bit of sugar, salt, and your favorite cheese. Fresh herbs like chives enhance the flavor profile nicely.
The best cheese scones have a light, flaky texture with crumbly edges. You can serve them warm with butter or alongside eggs and bacon for a hearty brunch option.
Unlike sweet varieties, these savory scones pair wonderfully with soups and salads too.
Nutritional Benefits of Brunch
Brunch offers a unique opportunity to combine nutrients from both breakfast and lunch foods. This mid-morning meal can provide essential energy and nutrients to fuel your day when prepared thoughtfully.
Balancing Macronutrients
Brunch allows you to create a well-rounded meal that includes all three macronutrients: proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Protein-rich options like eggs, Greek yogurt, and lean meats help build and repair muscles while keeping you full longer.
Whole grain carbohydrates in foods like oatmeal, whole wheat toast, or quinoa provide sustained energy and fiber. These complex carbs digest more slowly than refined options, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil support brain health and nutrient absorption. Adding a moderate amount of these fats to your brunch helps you feel satisfied and provides essential fatty acids.
A balanced brunch plate might include:
- Protein: 2 eggs or ½ cup Greek yogurt
- Complex carbs: 1 slice whole grain toast or ½ cup oatmeal
- Healthy fats: ¼ avocado or 1 tablespoon nut butter
Incorporating Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal produce adds vital micronutrients to your brunch while supporting sustainable eating habits. Spring brunches can feature asparagus, strawberries, and fresh herbs, while summer offers tomatoes, berries, and zucchini.
Fall brunches benefit from apples, pears, and pumpkin, while winter brunches can incorporate citrus fruits, root vegetables, and hearty greens. These seasonal ingredients provide varying vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants throughout the year.
Colorful fruits and vegetables enhance your brunch with phytonutrients that fight inflammation and support immune function. Aim to include at least 2-3 different colored produce items in your brunch.
Try a simple seasonal fruit salad with a sprinkle of nuts, or add vegetables to frittatas and hashes for extra nutrients. Even garnishes like fresh herbs contribute valuable micronutrients to your meal.
Culinary Techniques for Brunch Cooking
Making a perfect brunch requires mastering a few essential cooking techniques. These skills will elevate your dishes from basic to restaurant-quality with just a little practice.
Perfecting the Art of Poaching Eggs
Poaching eggs starts with fresh eggs at room temperature. Fill a pot with water about 3 inches deep and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
Bring the water to a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. The water should show small bubbles at the bottom of the pot.
Crack each egg into a small bowl first. Create a gentle whirlpool in the water with a spoon, then slide the egg into the center.
Cook for 3-4 minutes for a perfectly runny yolk. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg, and rest it briefly on a paper towel to remove excess water.
For make-ahead poached eggs, place them in ice water after cooking. When ready to serve, warm them in hot water for 30 seconds.
Mastering the Fluffy Pancake
For fluffy pancakes, start by separating your eggs. Mix the yolks with other wet ingredients, and beat the whites separately until soft peaks form.
Key Tips for Perfect Pancakes:
- Let the batter rest for 15-30 minutes after mixing
- Fold in whipped egg whites gently at the end
- Use a cast iron or non-stick pan at medium heat
- Wait for bubbles to form before flipping
The perfect pancake batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
Cook pancakes until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid pressing down with your spatula, as this removes the air you’ve worked to incorporate.
