As the school year approaches, many parents are scrambling to come up with quick and delicious breakfast ideas that will fuel their kids’ minds and bodies. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 easy recipes perfect for busy mornings. From overnight oats to scrambled egg breakfast burritos, we’ll show you how to start your day off right without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Whether you’re a morning person or not, these recipes are designed to be quick and easy to make, even on the most chaotic of mornings. Plus, they’re all kid-friendly, so you can trust that your little ones will love them just as much as you do!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into our top 20 easy back-to-school recipes and get this school year off to a delicious start!
Overnight Oats with Berries and Honey
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast by preparing this easy overnight oats recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine oats, almond milk, honey, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the mixed berries, chia seeds, and vanilla extract to the oat mixture. Mix gently.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a good stir to redistribute the berries. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: At least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours)
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a delicious and filling smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of peanut butter. This classic treat is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a post-workout recharge.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until frosty.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Start your day with a creamy and satisfying breakfast that’s packed with nutrients. This simple recipe combines the richness of avocado toast with the velvety texture of poached eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Crack an egg into a pot of simmering water and poach for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set.
4. Remove the egg with a slotted spoon and drain off excess water.
5. Place the poached egg on top of the avocado toast.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice (if using).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Pancake Muffins with Maple Syrup
Start your day with these adorable mini pancake muffins, infused with the rich flavor of maple syrup. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and maple syrup.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Start your day off right with this simple yet satisfying Greek yogurt parfait, topped with crunchy granola and sweet fresh fruit. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 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 mixture.
3. Drizzle with honey, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Scrambled Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with these delicious and easy-to-make breakfast burritos packed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your favorite fillings. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 flour tortillas
– Optional fillings: cooked sausage or bacon, diced tomatoes, avocado
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until set, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, bell peppers, and onions to the eggs. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled egg mixture, cheese, and any desired fillings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this delicious and comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats is a perfect way to begin any morning.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, salt, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Add the diced apple and ground cinnamon to the oat mixture. Stir until the apples are evenly distributed.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve warm, topped with your choice of nuts, seeds, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Quesadillas
Start your day off right with these savory breakfast quesadillas, packed with crispy ham, melted cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 slices of cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, or avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until scrambled.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ham slices to the skillet and cook until crispy (about 2 minutes per side).
4. In separate tortillas, place a slice of cooked ham, some scrambled eggs, and sprinkle with cheese.
5. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry Chia Pudding
This recipe combines the nutritious benefits of chia seeds with the sweetness of blueberries, creating a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to thicken.
5. Just before serving, stir in blueberries and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
These pinwheels are a perfect combination of savory turkey and melted cheese, wrapped in a flaky tortilla. They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat tortillas (8-10 count)
– 1/2 cup sliced deli turkey breast
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spread a quarter of the cream cheese mixture onto it, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange 2-3 slices of turkey and some shredded cheese on top of the cream cheese.
5. Sprinkle with parsley and roll up tightly.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Place pinwheels seam-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Veggie-Packed Lunchbox Wraps
A nutritious and delicious wrap packed with an array of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick lunch or snack on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a surface.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of hummus down the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with a spoonful of warmed black beans, followed by mixed greens, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and red onion slivers.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using).
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick to assemble and ready in minutes.
Enjoy your healthy and tasty Veggie-Packed Lunchbox Wraps!
Homemade Granola Bars with Nuts
These homemade granola bars are packed with nuts and perfect for a quick energy boost on-the-go. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty snack that’s also good for you.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 12-16 granola bars
Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a light meal or as a side dish. This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese and the tanginess of balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinaigrette
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, balsamic vinaigrette, and basil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels with Pepperoni
These bite-sized bagel pizzas are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and flavorful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini bagels
– 8-10 slices of pepperoni
– 1/4 cup of pizza sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bagels in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Brush the tops of the bagels with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place 2-3 slices of pepperoni on each bagel half, followed by a spoonful of pizza sauce.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each bagel.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the richness of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a classic stir-fry that combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and savory sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Elevate your snack game with these juicy turkey and cheese sliders, perfect for a quick lunch or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices cheddar cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, and condiments (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill the patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a patty on each bun, followed by a slice of cheese and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Energy Bites
Get a boost of energy with these no-bake bites that combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat, they’re easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/2 cup grape or strawberry jelly
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the jelly and honey to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
3. If using nuts, fold them into the mixture.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are no-bake and ready in just a few minutes.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Transform regular fries into a sweet and crispy treat with this simple recipe. By baking sweet potato slices instead of frying, you’ll get to enjoy the same satisfying snack without the added calories.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes.
3. Cut the sweet potatoes into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Place the sweet potato strips in a single layer on the baking sheet.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the fries, sprinkling with salt and any additional seasonings you like.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate chips, resulting in a deliciously moist banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 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 (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
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. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get back to school with these 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for busy mornings. From overnight oats and peanut butter banana smoothies to scrambled egg breakfast burritos and mini pizza bagels, there’s something for everyone. Try making homemade granola bars with nuts, pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, or cheesy broccoli and rice casserole for a quick and satisfying lunch. And don’t forget about the sweet treats like blueberry chia pudding, chocolate chip banana bread, and baked sweet potato fries.
