9 Healthy Breakfast Recipes You Can Make Ahead of Time

Breakfast is often called “the most important meal of the day,” but making a gourmet meal each morning simply isn’t in the cards for most people. If your morning routine has you feeling scrambled, well, you’re not alone. Despite recommendations from registered dietitian-nutritionists to eat breakfast every day, nearly a quarter of adults in the United States regularly skip breakfast, research notes.
The health benefits of a daily breakfast are well-established and include decreased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and improved mental functioning, per the Cleveland Clinic. Not to mention the fact that breakfast fills you up, leaving you less ravenous at lunchtime. So how can you go about adding breakfast into your daily routine in a way that doesn't involve a drive-through? Make it ahead of time.
There are plenty of healthy breakfast foods you can make the night (or several nights) before, saving you time and effort during your most hectic hours of the day. You can also prep larger quantities for a cook-once, eat-all-week experience. Make-ahead breakfasts have the added benefit of providing built-in portion control — a great feature for those looking to avoid overeating and curb calorie intake to reach or maintain a healthy weight. There are plenty of grab-and-go options, too.
So take the stress out of your morning routine with these nine healthy recipes and get started on breakfast!

Cheesy Quiche With Zucchini
This cheesy quiche isn’t just tasty, it’s also a deceptively healthy way to start your day (or end it, for that matter). When whipped up with protein-rich eggs (per the USDA) and flavorful cheese, zucchini is a melt-in-your-mouth treat for the taste buds! Zucchini is a rich source of vitamin C, according to data from the USDA, a nutrient that the NIH notes may improve immunity.
PREP TIME
10 minCOOK TIME
35 minTOTAL TIME
45 minIngredients
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine flours ¼ tsp salt, ⅓ cup olive oil, and ⅓ cup warm water (plus more as needed). Gently mix until a smooth ball forms. Roll into an even 12-inch circle, about ¼-inch thick. Press dough into a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add onion and cook, stirring frequently, until onions have softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and stir, cooking until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
Transfer to prepared piecrust and top with zucchini slices.
In a medium bowl, stir together eggs and milk and pour it over the vegetables. Top with cheese and bake on a middle rack until the eggs are set, 30 to 40 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
Serving size1 slice
calories
383total fat
23gsaturated fat
5.6gprotein
16gcarbohydrates
28gfiber
2.6gsugar
4gadded sugar
0gsodium
254mgTAGS:
Wheat, Eggs, Dairy, Diabetes-Friendly, Vegetarian, Family-Friendly, Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerRate recipe
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Fruit, Kefir, and Granola Ice Pops
These healthy ice pops are like dessert for breakfast. They combine the natural sweetness and fiber of fresh fruit with kefir, a fermented dairy drink that contains calcium and probiotics, per the USDA. Granola adds some healthy carbs and crunch. With just 4 ingredients, these pops are easy for anyone to make, and you can get creative with the fruit combos so you never get bored.
PREP TIME
10 minTOTAL TIME
4 hr 10 minIngredients
Directions
In a bowl, stir together kefir and maple syrup.
Evenly divide granola among 6 4-oz ice pop molds. Top each with fruit and kefir mixture, making sure that the kefir is evenly distributed and no air pockets remain. Place the mold in the freezer on a flat surface and freeze until solid, at least 4 hours.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
Serving size1 ice pop
calories
105total fat
2gsaturated fat
0.5gprotein
4gcarbohydrates
19gfiber
1gsugar
12.8gadded sugar
7.7gsodium
48mgTAGS:
Dairy, Tree Nuts, Diabetes-Friendly, Heart-Healthy, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat, Anti-Inflammatory, Family-Friendly, Breakfast, Dessert, SnackRate recipe
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Make-Ahead Berry and Yogurt Parfaits
Vibrant colors are often indicative of highly nutritious and antioxidant-packed foods, and the berries in these parfaits are no exception. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health names berries as one of the healthiest foods on the planet. Plus, a September 2022 review in Foods lists yogurt as a functional food (a food that offers benefits beyond basic nutrition) because of its high probiotic content.
PREP TIME
5 minTOTAL TIME
5 minIngredients
Directions
Place ½ cup yogurt into the bottom of each of 2 glass jars. Top with a drizzle of honey, if using. Add ¼ cups each of raspberries and blueberries and 2 tbsp of granola to each jar.
Repeat with a second layer of each ingredient in each jar. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
Serving size1 parfait
calories
335total fat
5gsaturated fat
0.7gprotein
29gcarbohydrates
46gfiber
5.8gsugar
24.3gadded sugar
4.8gsodium
134mgTAGS:
Dairy, Tree Nuts, Diabetes-Friendly, Heart-Healthy, Mediterranean, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber, High-Protein, Anti-Inflammatory, Cholesterol-Conscious, Family-Friendly, Quick & Easy, BreakfastRate recipe
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Make-Ahead Potato Hash
Microwaving the potatoes gets them cooked in a hurry, and if you cook them and then cool them for use the next morning, you’ll be increasing the amount of resistant starch in the potatoes, notes Johns Hopkins. As the name implies, resistant starch resists digestion and can help limit the effect a food has on blood sugar levels as a result.
PREP TIME
15 minCOOK TIME
15 minTOTAL TIME
30 minIngredients
Directions
Place potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on high until they can be easily pierced with a fork, about 5 minutes.
Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and onions, and cook, stirring frequently until the onions begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and stir, cook until fragrant, 1–2 minutes.
Add potatoes to the skillet. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add ham and stir. Using a spatula, press down on the potatoes and allow them to cook without stirring for 5 minutes.
Scrape the potatoes from the bottom of the pan, stir them and press them down with the spatula again. Cook for 5 more minutes before removing the potatoes from the heat. Divide the potatoes evenly among 4 serving bowls, top with scallions, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
Serving size1 cup
calories
194total fat
8gsaturated fat
1.5gprotein
8gcarbohydrates
24gfiber
2.5gsugar
2.2gadded sugar
0gsodium
431mgTips
For a complete breakfast, enjoy these potatoes topped with an egg or two, cooked to your liking!
TAGS:
Family-Friendly, Breakfast, Mediterranean, Gluten-FreeRate recipe
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Blueberry Crumb Cake
Cake for breakfast might not sound all that wholesome, but this healthier version is the best of both worlds. By using unsweetened applesauce in place of butter, you’ll not only cut calories and unhealthy fats, according to the USDA, but also ensure a moist crumb. In the same way, Greek yogurt keeps the texture soft and dense, while adding a dose of protein to this baked-ahead treat, per the USDA.
PREP TIME
15 minCOOK TIME
40 minTOTAL TIME
55 minIngredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together whole-wheat flour, 1 cup all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup maple syrup, applesauce, eggs, almond extract, and yogurt. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just moistened. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with blueberries in an even layer.
In a small bowl, stir together oats, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, cinnamon, 2 tbsp maple syrup, and avocado oil. Sprinkle over the blueberries and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 40–50 minutes. Allow to cool completely before slicing into 12 squares.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
Serving size1 slice
calories
204total fat
4gsaturated fat
0.6gprotein
7gcarbohydrates
35gfiber
2.9gsugar
12.1gadded sugar
7.4gsodium
96mgTAGS:
Tree Nuts, Wheat, Eggs, Dairy, Heart-Healthy, Vegetarian, Low-Sodium, Family-Friendly, Breakfast, DessertRate recipe
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Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole
When you want French toast for the whole family without the hassle, you can prep this make-ahead breakfast casserole the night before and pop it in the oven for an easy morning treat. Per the USDA, blueberries and almonds contain antioxidants and fiber, while the nuts add healthy fats and protein to a dish that usually skimps on such nutrients, so while it tastes indulgent, it’s actually good for you.
PREP TIME
10 minCOOK TIME
45 minTOTAL TIME
55 minIngredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray the bottom and sides of a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add blueberries to the baking dish and set aside.
Slice the baguette into rounds or cubes and arrange in the prepared baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, almond extract, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Pour over the bread, making sure it is evenly coated.
Bake until the mixture is set and lightly browned, about 45 to 50 minutes. Top with almonds and more blueberries, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
calories
303total fat
10gsaturated fat
1.9gprotein
14gcarbohydrates
39gfiber
3.2gsugar
19.1gadded sugar
8.8gsodium
304mgTips
This French toast casserole can be made the night before and refrigerated overnight for an easy no-prep morning!
TAGS:
Wheat, Dairy, Eggs, Tree Nuts, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Family-Friendly, BreakfastRate recipe
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Berry and Chia Overnight Oats
In this “set it and forget it” breakfast option, a mashed banana adds natural sweetness. Fresh berries are a great source of antioxidants, past research has shown, but frozen berries pack just as much nutritional value as fresh (and sometimes more)!
PREP TIME
5 minTOTAL TIME
4 hr 5 minIngredients
Directions
Combine milk, yogurt, oats, chia seeds, and banana in a mixing bowl and stir together well.
Divide oat mixture into 2 jars with lids. Top each with half the blueberries, strawberries, and walnuts.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
calories
520total fat
17gsaturated fat
1.5gprotein
20gcarbohydrates
78gfiber
14gsugar
20gadded sugar
0gsodium
60mgTAGS:
Dairy, Tree Nuts, Anti-Inflammatory, Breakfast, Cholesterol-Conscious, Heart-Healthy, Gluten-free, High-Fiber, Low-Sodium, Mediterranean, VegetarianRate recipe
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Make-Ahead Veggie Breakfast Burrito
It’s hard to have a bad day when you start it with a warm, delicious breakfast burrito. This meal comes prewrapped, and is also a great way to add more vegetables to your morning meal, which often skimps on them. To keep it nutritious, lose the processed and cured meats and cut back on cheese, and instead bulk it up with bell pepper and spinach, or any other veggie you choose.
PREP TIME
5 minCOOK TIME
10 minTOTAL TIME
15 minIngredients
Directions
Place a medium skillet over medium heat. Add oil, then pepper, shallots, and garlic. Sauté until veggies are soft, 5–7 minutes. Stir in spinach and cook just until wilted, 1–2 minutes more.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk eggs with salt and pepper. Pour into skillet with vegetables and cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until eggs are set, 3–5 minutes.
Evenly divide egg mixture among tortillas and top each with 2 tbsp of cheese. Fold tortilla over the mixture, fold in the sides and roll until completely closed.
Optional: If you prefer a crispier tortilla, lightly cook the finished breakfast burrito in a clean skillet until lightly browned, 1–2 minutes per side.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
calories
501total fat
29gsaturated fat
8.1gprotein
27gcarbohydrates
33gfiber
3.9gsugar
6.4gadded sugar
2gsodium
729mgTips
To make this a great grab-and-go breakfast, make a batch ahead of time, allow them to cool, wrap them in plastic wrap, and then freeze them. Defrost the wrap overnight in the refrigerator and heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through, or heat in a skillet until heated through, 2–3 minutes per side.
TAGS:
Eggs, Dairy, Wheat, Breakfast, Family-Friendly, High-Protein, Mediterranean, Quick & Easy, VegetarianRate recipe
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Bacon, Tomato, and Onion Egg Cups
These egg-based cups pack a lot more protein — more than 20 grams (g) per serving — than the traditional muffin and pack in veggies, too. Eggs are an excellent source of choline, according to data from the USDA, which is an essential nutrient linked to improved metabolism and cell health, per the NIH. These mini-frittatas are less messy than other egg-based breakfasts, so they travel well.
PREP TIME
10 minCOOK TIME
15 minTOTAL TIME
25 minIngredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a muffin tin with nonstick spray.
Place a skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until it begins to release some of its oil. Add the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened and bacon is crispy, about 5–8 minutes. Add the sun-dried tomatoes.
Using a spoon, evenly distribute vegetable mixture in prepared muffin tin.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. Evenly distribute among muffin cups. Add a small amount of goat cheese to each muffin cup.
Bake until eggs are fully set, about 10–12 minutes. Serve warm or chill until serving.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving
Serving size3 muffins
calories
345total fat
24gsaturated fat
8.6gprotein
23gcarbohydrates
7gfiber
1gsugar
4.1gadded sugar
0.1gsodium
390mgTips
Use any veggies you like (or have on hand) in this recipe. Enjoy endless possibilities of egg cup combos!
Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for later use. To do this, simply cool completely and place in a single layer in a zip top freezer bag in the freezer. Use within 1 month of freezing.
TAGS:
Eggs, Dairy, Breakfast, Family-Friendly, Gluten-free, Low-Carbohydrate, Mediterranean, Quick & EasyRate recipe
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Lynn Grieger, RDN, CDCES
Medical Reviewer
Lynn Grieger is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, certified diabetes care and education specialist, certified personal trainer, and certified health and wellness coach. She completed requirements to become a registered dietitian at Valparaiso University in 1987 and completed a dietetic internship at Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey, Illinois, in 1988.
Lynn brings her expertise in nutrition, exercise, and behavior change to her work in helping people reach their individual health and fitness goals. In addition to writing for Everyday Health, she has also written for websites and publications like Food and Health Communications, Today's Dietitian, iVillage.com, and Rodale Press. She has a passion for healthy, nutrient-dense, great-tasting food and for being outdoors as much as possible — she can often be found running or hiking, and has completed a marathon in every state.

Kelly Kennedy, RDN, LDN
Author
Kelly Kennedy is a licensed dietitian-nutritionist with over 14 years of experience in digital media. She previously managed and oversaw nutrition content, recipe development, meal planning, and diet and nutrition coaching at Everyday Health. She developed and reviewed various meal plans, books, slideshows, and online tools, and oversaw the creation of more than 500 unique recipes. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a master's degree from the State University of New York College at Oneonta.
Kennedy enjoys anything that takes her outside, from gardening and playing in the yard with her kids to hiking and even feeding her pet chickens.