24 Cheap Breakfast Ideas: Delicious And Budget-Friendly Options To Start Your Day Right

Finding a good breakfast that doesn’t cost a lot can be tough, especially if you’re always in a rush. But don’t worry, there are plenty of tasty and cheap breakfast ideas that you can make quickly. Whether you like sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone. Here are 30 budget-friendly breakfast ideas to help you start your day right.

Key Takeaways

• You can make overnight oats the night before for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
• Egg bites are easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for busy mornings.
• Banana bread is a sweet and filling option that you can bake ahead of time.
• Muffins are versatile, and you can make them with different flavors to keep things interesting.
• French toast is a classic breakfast that can be made quickly and doesn’t cost much.

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1. Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are a lifesaver for busy mornings. You can prepare them the night before, and they’ll be ready to eat when you wake up. This easy overnight oats recipe only needs two ingredients: oats and milk! You can customize it with your favorite add-ins and toppings.

How to Make Overnight Oats:

1. Mix equal parts oats and milk in a jar or bowl.
2. Stir in any add-ins like honey, yogurt, or chia seeds.
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
4. In the morning, add your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Overnight oats are not only convenient but also a healthy and delicious way to start your day. You can warm them up if you prefer a hot breakfast.

2. Egg Bites

Egg bites are a fantastic grab-and-go breakfast option that won’t break the bank. Inspired by Starbucks, these egg bites are made with eggs, cottage cheese, and veggies. You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup diced veggies (like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: shredded cheese, cooked bacon, or sausage

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese until smooth.
3. Stir in the diced veggies, salt, and pepper. Add any optional ingredients if desired.
4. Pour the mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bites are set and slightly golden on top.
6. Let them cool before removing from the tin. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

These egg bites are perfect for busy mornings. Just grab a couple, reheat, and you’re good to go!

3. Banana Bread

Banana bread is a classic breakfast option that’s both delicious and easy to make. With this healthy banana bread recipe, you’re only a few basic ingredients away from a tasty treat. It’s made with whole wheat flour and honey, making it a healthier choice compared to traditional banana bread.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 beaten egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
3. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the whole wheat flour and honey, and mix until just incorporated.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Banana bread is perfect for busy mornings. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

4. Muffins

Muffins are a fantastic breakfast option that you can easily make ahead of time. These healthy muffins are great for grab-and-go breakfast, lunchboxes, or snacks. They’re filled with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious tasty treat. You can customize them with whatever you have in your pantry.

How to Make Muffins:

1. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. Fold in your choice of add-ins like fruits or nuts.
4. Pour the batter into muffin tins.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Muffins can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, and yes, they’re freezer-friendly too. Just grab one on your way out the door for a quick and easy breakfast.

5. Easy Cinnamon Rolls

Who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls? With a simple and quick prep, you’ll have these sweet treats ready in no time. Just follow the easy steps for fluffy, moist cinnamon rolls. You can use cream cheese frosting or vanilla icing!

6. French Toast

French toast is a classic breakfast that is both delicious and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick yet satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 4 slices of bread
• Butter for cooking
• Maple syrup or powdered sugar for topping

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are well-coated.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter.
4. Cook the bread slices until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot with maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

French toast is a versatile dish. You can add fresh fruits, nuts, or even a dollop of yogurt to make it more nutritious.

7. Rice Porridge (Congee)

Are you looking for a cozy and filling breakfast? Try rice porridge, also known as congee! This breakfast recipe comes from China and involves slow-cooking rice until it becomes creamy in a flavorful broth. You can jazz up your congee with different rice types and toppings like soft-boiled eggs, green onions, or crispy shallots.

8. Pancakes

Pancakes are a breakfast classic that can be whipped up in no time. They are a versatile dish that can be topped with anything from fresh fruit and syrup to bacon and eggs. This easy pancake recipe is quick to make with simple pantry ingredients.

Topping Ideas:

• Fresh fruit and syrup
• Bacon and eggs
• Chocolate chips and whipped cream
• Peanut butter and bananas

Pancakes are not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. You can increase the nutritional value by adding a scoop of your go-to protein powder, ground flaxseed, or other healthy additions.

9. Potato & Bell Pepper Hash

Starting your day with a hearty breakfast like potato and bell pepper hash is always a good idea. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. It pairs wonderfully with eggs for an extra protein punch.

Ingredients:

• 4 russet potatoes, medium diced
• 6-8 mixed mini sweet peppers, sliced
• ½ medium yellow onion, sliced
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the sliced onions and peppers to the skillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue to cook until the potatoes are golden brown and the peppers are tender, about another 10 minutes.

This dish is perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick, filling, and delicious.

10. Fruit & Yogurt Parfaits

Fruit and yogurt parfaits are a delightful and nutritious breakfast choice, perfect for busy mornings. Here’s how to make them:

Instructions:

1. Start with a layer of homemade or store-bought strawberry jam at the bottom of your glass or jar.
2. Add a spoonful of vanilla Greek yogurt for a creamy, health-boosting layer.
3. Toss in a colorful mix of berries for that fresh, fruity burst.
4. Sprinkle some granola on top for that must-have crunch.
5. Repeat the layers of jam, yogurt, berries, and granola until your jar looks like a tower of deliciousness.

Make it the night before for a quick and yummy grab-and-go breakfast.

11. Cereal With Protein Milk

Cereal is a classic breakfast choice, but you can easily boost its nutritional value by adding protein milk. This simple change can turn your regular bowl of cereal into a protein-packed meal.

How to Make It:

1. Choose your favorite cereal. Opt for varieties that are low in sugar and high in fiber.
2. Pour in some protein milk. You can use store-bought protein milk or make your own by mixing regular milk with protein powder.
3. Add some extra toppings for flavor and nutrition. Consider adding almond butter, honey, or even a few chocolate chips.

This 4-ingredient homemade protein cereal packs over 20 grams of protein! It’s crispy, crunchy, and delicious.

12. Fruit Salad

A rainbow fruit salad is a refreshing, healthy breakfast alternative. Here’s how to whip this up in no time:

Instructions:

1. Start by mixing strawberries, oranges, pineapple, kiwi, blueberries, and grapes.
2. Drizzle those juicy fruits with lemon juice and pure maple syrup.

This isn’t just for flavor; it helps the fruits dazzle even more and keeps breakfast feeling like a treat.

13. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is a delicious and simple breakfast, snack, or light meal! It’s quick to make and can be customized in many ways.

Classic Avocado Toast:

1. Start with a slice of crusty bread, toasted to your liking.
2. Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado on top.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, ground black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Egg and Avocado Toast:

Top your avocado toast with a boiled or fried egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Avocado toast is a versatile and budget-friendly option that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

14. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a fantastic option for a quick and budget-friendly breakfast. It’s versatile, filling, and can be customized to suit your taste.

How to Make Oatmeal:

1. Choose Your Oats: You can use instant oats, rolled oats, or steel-cut oats.
2. Add Liquid: Use water, milk, or a milk alternative like almond or soy milk.
3. Cook: Microwave or cook on the stove until the oats have absorbed the liquid.
4. Customize: Add your favorite toppings like fruits, nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey.

Oatmeal is a versatile and budget-friendly breakfast option that can be customized to suit any taste.

15. Fruit Smoothies

Fruit smoothies are a fantastic way to start your day, especially when you’re in a rush. These healthy smoothie recipes deliver flavor and nutrients in a to-go format.

Tips for Smoothies:

• Pre-blend your smoothies and store them in freezer-safe containers.
• Assemble your smoothie ingredients ahead of time in individual freezer bags.

This way, you can have a quick, nutritious breakfast ready in no time.

16. Breakfast Pita Pockets

For a fast, easy breakfast, try a warm piece of pita bread filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, sausage, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s sure to bring smiles all around.

17. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a fantastic option for a quick and cheap breakfast. They are easy to make and can be prepared in advance.

How to Make Hard-Boiled Eggs:

1. Place eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water.
2. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, remove the pot from heat and cover it with a lid.
4. Let the eggs sit in the hot water for about 10-12 minutes.
5. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool for a few minutes before peeling.

Hard-boiled eggs are not only nutritious but also incredibly convenient.

18. Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast burritos are a fantastic way to start your day, especially if you’re in a rush. They are not only delicious but also a cheap breakfast option that can be prepared ahead of time.

How to Make Breakfast Burritos:

1. Cook your choice of filling (eggs, meat, beans, etc.).
2. Warm up the tortillas in a skillet.
3. Place the filling in the center of each tortilla.
4. Add cheese, salsa, or any other toppings you like.
5. Roll up the tortillas, folding in the sides to keep the filling inside.

You can make a batch of these burritos and freeze them for busy mornings.

19. Pita Bread with Hummus

Pita bread with hummus is a simple and tasty Mediterranean breakfast that you can enjoy on the go. It’s one of my favorite low-carb options.

How to Make It:

• Slice up some fresh veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, or bell peppers and tuck them inside your pita bread along with the hummus.

20. Mini Broccoli & Cheddar Quiches

These adorable mini quiches are not only high on the fancy scale; they are a surprisingly quick and easy cheap breakfast idea! They can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, and yes, they’re freezer-friendly too.

21. Bacon Burrito

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty breakfast, a bacon burrito is a great choice. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy mornings.

How to Make It:

1. Cook your bacon until it’s crispy.
2. Scramble some eggs in a separate pan.
3. Chop the bacon into small pieces and mix it with the scrambled eggs.
4. Warm up your tortillas and place a spoonful of the bacon and egg mixture onto each tortilla.
5. Roll them up tightly.

22. Fresh Whole Fruits

When I’m in a rush, fresh whole fruits are my go-to breakfast. They’re not only quick and easy but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

23. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are a fantastic on-the-go snack or cheap breakfast idea. You can make your own trail mix by combining nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

24. Quick Scrambled Eggs

Scrambled eggs are a quick and easy breakfast option that won’t break the bank. You need three simple ingredients for this recipe: eggs, butter (or olive oil), and salt.

Steps to Make Quick Scrambled Eggs:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil.
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and let them sit for a few seconds before stirring.
4. Gently stir the eggs with a spatula until just set.

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Conclusion

Starting your day with a nutritious and affordable breakfast doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these 30 cheap breakfast ideas, you can enjoy delicious meals that fit your budget and busy lifestyle. From quick and easy options like hard-boiled eggs and fruit smoothies to make-ahead meals like breakfast burritos and overnight oats, there’s something for everyone. Remember, a good breakfast sets the tone for the rest of your day, keeping you energized and focused.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the cheapest breakfast foods?

Eggs, bananas, oatmeal, and whole grain bread are some of the most affordable breakfast options.

Can I customize these recipes to fit my dietary needs?

Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be adjusted to suit your dietary preferences.

How can I save time on breakfast during busy mornings?

Prepare meals in advance, like overnight oats or breakfast burritos, to save time.

What is a good breakfast to keep me full until lunch?

High-protein options like egg bites or breakfast burritos are great for keeping you full.

Are these breakfast ideas suitable for kids?

Yes! Many of these options are kid-friendly and can be customized to their tastes.

Can I make these breakfasts ahead of time?

Many of these recipes can be prepared in advance and stored for quick breakfasts.

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