Whether you’re prepping for Christmas morning, hosting overnight guests, or just trying to make weekday mornings a little easier, a make-ahead breakfast is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Less time at the stove means more time at the table with the people you love.
From hearty egg casseroles you can assemble the night before to muffins and quick breads that keep beautifully all week, these recipes are designed to make your mornings easier and your breakfasts just as delicious.
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special holiday brunch! This easy glazed eggnog bread is a flavorful make-ahead Christmas treat that's ready for the oven in about 10 minutes.
These hearty, savory recipes are perfect for feeding a crowd. Most can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning, which means you get a hot, homemade breakfast without the early wake-up call.
Like a crustless quiche, this baked western omelet (or Denver omelet) is a healthy and easy way to serve eggs to a crowd. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner!
These freezer-friendly egg omelet muffins are easy and delicious — the perfect breakfast or snack on the go. Follow this recipe to make Western (or Denver) omelet bites, or sub in your favorite vegetables.
A hearty sausage egg and cheese casserole that's perfect for feeding a crowd. Make it ahead and bake in the morning, or throw it together the same day. This easy breakfast casserole is loaded with flavor!
Bake a batch of muffins or a loaf of quick bread on the weekend, and you’ll have easy breakfasts ready all week. These recipes hold up beautifully for several days and pair perfectly with eggs, yogurt, or just a good cup of coffee.
These simple old-fashioned cranberry muffins are a delicious make-ahead breakfast, cozy side dish with supper, or festive addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
This flaky biscuit recipe creates tall, buttery layers with a tender crumb. A few simple techniques guarantee light, fluffy Southern-style biscuits every time.
When you want something a little more indulgent, these sweet breakfast treats are perfect. They’re ideal for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, Mother’s Day, or anytime you’re hosting and want to impress without spending all morning in the kitchen.
Inspired by the rustic morning treat served in French farmhouses, this simple breakfast cake is the perfect companion for a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa.
This delicious and easy cranberry bread recipe only takes 15 minutes to prepare! Sweet and tangy cranberries paired with crunchy walnuts and a hint of orange make this moist loaf a perfectly sweet treat for the holidays or any time of year.
The key to a stress-free holiday morning is knowing which recipes to prep ahead and how to put together a menu that works for your crowd.
Overnight Prep vs. Bake Ahead
Assemble tonight, bake tomorrow: This approach works best for egg casseroles and quiches. Put everything together the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it in the oven and add 5 to 10 extra minutes of baking time since it’s going in cold.
Bake ahead and reheat: This is the way to go for muffins, quick breads, biscuits, and sweet treats. Bake the day before, store at room temperature or in the fridge, and warm briefly before serving. Most muffins and breads taste just as good (sometimes better) the next day.
Scaling for Your Crowd
For a smaller family breakfast: One casserole or quiche plus a batch of muffins or a loaf of quick bread is usually plenty. Add some fresh fruit and you’re set.
For a larger gathering or brunch buffet: Plan on one savory casserole, one sweet treat, and a quick bread or muffins for variety. Most casseroles can be doubled by using a larger baking dish. Check the recipe notes for guidance.
Simple Menu Ideas
Need a little inspiration? Here are a few combinations that work well together:
Welcome to my farmhouse kitchen in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Inspired by local traditions and seasonal fare, you’ll find plenty of easy, comforting recipes that bring your family together around the table. It’s down-home, country-style cooking!
