Brunch – the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering of friends, or just need a little pick-me-up to get through the morning, there’s nothing quite like a satisfying and flavorful brunch. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering brunch recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From sweet treats like avocado toast with poached eggs and blueberry lemon ricotta pancakes, to savory dishes like smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels and spinach and feta quiche, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget the classic brunch staples – think chocolate chip banana bread, eggs benedict, and strawberry French toast casserole.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these recipes and more, providing you with all the ingredients and instructions you need to create a truly unforgettable brunch experience. So grab your apron and get ready to dig in!
Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Start your day off right with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the richness of avocado, the runniness of poached eggs, and the crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large eggs
– Water for poaching
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Poach the eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water (about 180°F). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
4. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and place on top of the avocado toast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes infused with the sweetness of blueberries, the tanginess of lemon, and the creaminess of ricotta. These Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are sure to brighten up any morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup fresh blueberries, chopped
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, ricotta cheese, egg, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in chopped blueberries.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagels
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet elegant recipe, featuring smoky salmon and creamy cheese on toasted bagels.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bagels (toasted)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh dill or capers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on each toasted bagel.
2. Top the cream cheese with flaked smoked salmon.
3. Squeeze a small amount of lemon juice over the salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill or capers, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including toasting bagels)
Spinach and Feta Quiche
This quiche is a classic combination of creamy feta cheese, nutritious spinach, and flaky pastry. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Bake the pie crust for 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Let it cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- In the cooled pie crust, arrange the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and feta mixture.
- Top with grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake for an additional 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of chocolate chips, resulting in a scrumptious banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. 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 loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Classic Eggs Benedict
Start your day with a luxurious twist on the classic breakfast dish. This recipe features poached eggs, crispy Canadian bacon, and melted butter all piled high on toasted English muffins.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 8 slices Canadian bacon, cooked through
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium saucepan with water and add the vinegar.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Crack each egg into the poaching liquid and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
4. Meanwhile, toast the English muffins and cook the Canadian bacon slices in a pan with butter until crispy.
5. Assemble the Benedict by placing a toasted English muffin half on a plate, topping with a slice of Canadian bacon, a poached egg, and finally a dollop of melted butter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Strawberry French Toast Casserole
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and indulgent casserole that combines the classic flavors of French toast with the freshness of strawberries.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (preferably Challah or brioche)
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon strawberry jam
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Arrange bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread.
5. Top with sliced strawberries and strawberry jam.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Breakfast Burritos with Sausage and Cheese
Start your day off right with these hearty breakfast burritos packed with savory sausage, melted cheese, and scrambled eggs. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Once browned and cooked through, set aside.
3. Scramble the eggs in the same skillet and cook until just set.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by adding scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese to each tortilla.
6. Roll up tightly and serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Start your day off right with a delicious and healthy Greek yogurt parfait topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the Greek yogurt and mixed berries.
2. Sprinkle the granola over the top of the yogurt and berries.
3. If desired, drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Bacon and Cheddar Waffles
Elevate your breakfast game with these crispy bacon and creamy cheddar waffles, perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, crumbled bacon, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Cook waffles according to iron’s instructions (typically 3-5 minutes).
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shakshuka with Feta and Herbs
A flavorful North African-inspired breakfast dish that combines the richness of feta cheese with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– 2 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Make 2 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the eggs.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks still slightly runny.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a cozy fall morning or afternoon pick-me-up. With the comforting aroma of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and oil. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Croissants
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these buttery, flaky ham and cheese croissants. Perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up or as a satisfying afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Sprinkle ham and cheese evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold the edges up over the filling, then roll the croissant into a tight log shape.
5. Cut the log into 6-8 equal pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Dot tops with softened butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chia Pudding with Fresh Berries
Transform plain chia seeds into a creamy and nutritious dessert by following this simple recipe. This pudding is perfect for hot summer days, as it’s light, refreshing, and packed with omega-3s and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh berries of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Add honey or maple syrup (if using) and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until dissolved.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, wash and hull your chosen berries.
5. Spoon the chia pudding into a glass or bowl and top with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 2 hours or overnight (chilling time)
Breakfast Pizza with Eggs and Arugula
Start your day off right with this creative breakfast pizza recipe, featuring crispy crust, savory eggs, and peppery arugula. It’s an easy and impressive way to serve up a morning meal that will keep you going all day long.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or 1 homemade crust
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, spinach, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the egg mixture onto one half of the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the eggs.
6. Top with arugula and any desired additional toppings.
7. Fold the other half of the pizza crust over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Hash with Fried Eggs
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of fried eggs, making for a satisfying and filling breakfast or brunch. Perfect for a weekend morning or a special occasion.
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
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Crack eggs into the skillet and cook until whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Transform your favorite cinnamon roll recipe into a convenient casserole that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. This sweet and satisfying dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon roll filling (such as cinnamon and sugar mixture)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Sprinkle cinnamon roll filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Roll up dough tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. If using nuts, sprinkle on top of casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lox and Bagel Board
A classic Jewish deli-style spread that’s perfect for brunch or a snack. This simple recipe combines the creamy richness of cream cheese, the smoky flavor of lox, and the crunch of fresh vegetables on a toasted bagel.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package of smoked salmon (lox)
– 1 block of cream cheese, softened
– 4-6 bagels, toasted
– Fresh dill pickle slices
– Thinly sliced red onion
– Capers
– Lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each toasted bagel.
2. Slice the lox into thin strips and arrange on top of the cream cheese.
3. Top with thinly sliced red onion, dill pickle slices, and capers.
4. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time)
Baked Apple Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this comforting and flavorful breakfast dish that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of oatmeal. This baked apple oatmeal is perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter or cooking spray, for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add diced onion and sliced apples to the oat mixture; mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour in the oatmeal mixture and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the oatmeal is set and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Prosciutto and Asparagus Frittata
A flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the simplicity of eggs with the elegance of prosciutto and asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced fresh asparagus
– 4 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour egg mixture over the asparagus and cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle prosciutto on top of eggs and transfer skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are almost set.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Summary
Looking for brunch inspiration? Look no further! This article features 20 delicious recipes perfect for any occasion. From sweet treats like strawberry French toast casserole and cinnamon roll casserole, to savory options like breakfast burritos with sausage and cheese and prosciutto and asparagus frittata, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just need a quick and easy breakfast idea, these recipes are sure to impress. With a range of flavors and textures, you’ll find the perfect dish to start your day off right.
