Last Updated on May 15, 2024
We admit it: There are some (or more like, many) mornings where it’s everything we can do to will ourselves out of bed and grab a fistful of cereal or a crappy granola bar on our way out the door. It’s not like a gourmet breakfast is a realistic everyday goal. But that doesn’t mean we should settle for a sugar rush that will leave us sad and hungry just a half hour later. You’d be surprised how many healthy breakfast ideas require very little effort when put into practice. We’re about to blow your mind with everything from crazy-easy breakfast muffins you can make ahead of time to healthy smoothie recipes you can whip up day-of in just minutes. Overnight oats recipe? Oh yeah. We’ve got a killer one of those. And did we mention the PB&J waffle sandwich? How had we not thought of this genius combination already?!
There’s also no need to limit these healthy breakfast recipes to the morning hours, friends. Expand your horizons and try these 39 healthy snack options to satisfy those breakfast food cravings all day long.
1. Nut Butter, Banana, and Chia Seed Toast
Try this superfood twist on classic PB and toast with 1/2 a banana (sliced) and a sprinkle of chia, which is packed with vitamins and minerals (like six times more calcium than milk!).
2. Berry and Yogurt Smoothie
Here’s a simple and delicious smoothie for the morning rush. Blend frozen fruit (banana and berries work well) with Greek yogurt and a liquid of your choice (milk, juice, coconut water—whatever you like). Freeze overnight and thaw throughout the day to enjoy in the afternoon or blend up in the morning.
3. Savory Oatmeal With an Egg
One of the simplest healthy breakfast ideas: take oatmeal to a whole new level by making it savory. Prepare as usual with milk or water, but add a pinch of salt and pepper instead of any cinnamon or sugar. Then top with an over-easy or poached egg and sprinkle on a little cheese for an extra tasty kick.
4. Quinoa Fruit Salad
Spice up a plain old fruit cup with a scoop of quinoa. Toss the whole shebang around until the quinoa is evenly distributed. Add a dressing of honey, lime, and basil for a little extra body.
5. Tomato Toast With Macadamia Ricotta
Here’s a healthier take on a classic breakfast sandwich: Take 2 slices of a hearty whole-grain bread, spread each slice with 1 tablespoon of homemade macadamia ricotta cheese, and sprinkle with shiso or basil, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Add 1-2 hearty slices of fresh heirloom tomatoes (blotted with paper towel to remove excess liquid) and enjoy.
6. Quinoa and Chia Porridge
Cooking quinoa in milk (cow, soy, or almond) and adding some sweet spices and fruit makes for a great substitute for classic hot breakfast cereals. Plus, it’s high in protein and essential amino acids like lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. Simply put all the ingredients into a pot and bring to a boil. Then simmer, stir, top with your favorite add-ons, and enjoy!
7. Avocado Toast With Egg
Sometimes simple is just better. Top two lightly toasted slices of whole-grain bread with smashed avocado and a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Layer on two sunny-side up eggs for a healthy dose of protein, and you’ve got a well-rounded breakfast. Stack ’em in a tupperware container for easy transport or cook the yolks a bit more and make the whole thing into a sandwich.
8. Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Here’s a healthy way to have chocolate for breakfast. A bowlful of quinoa makes for a filling, protein-rich base, and the banana and berries add a few servings of fruit.
9. Overnight Crock-Pot Egg Casserole
Wake up to a house smelling like sausage and effortlessly put breakfast on your plate, all thanks to the beauty of a slow cooker. Layer the vegetables, sausage, and cheese in the Crock-Pot, then top with a mix of eggs and cream (you’d be fine using regular or nondairy milk too for a lighter option), and you’re just one sleep away from a delicious meal.
10. Warm Fruit Bowl
Craving dessert for breakfast? Or breakfast for dessert? This gluten-free bowl should hit the spot. Simply bake a berry blend in the oven, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings, and add a cup of milk.
11. Zucchini Bread Oatmeal
Turn a classic baked loaf into oatmeal with this recipe. Adding shredded zucchini is a great way to fit in an extra serving of veggies. Throw on a handful of toasted walnuts for some added crunch.
12. Egg Breakfast Muffins
Finally, a muffin without allllll the sugar. One of the best healthy breakfast ideas out there. These guys are simple to make ahead of time, and last all week. Blend or whisk eggs with spinach, bacon, and cheese, then pour the mixture into muffin tins. Bake for 15-20 minutes before serving or storing in the refrigerator for later.
