Strapped for time in the morning? These quick breakfasts focus on healthy, easy-to-prepare options that are ideal for hectic mornings.
Some of these breakfast ideas do require some planning or preparation the night before, but doing so will save precious time when you’re rushed to get the kids to school.
Between the variety of sweet and savory options on this list, you’re sure to find something that everyone in the family will enjoy.
Fast and Tasty Breakfast Ideas for Busy Parents
Below are some quick breakfast ideas that you may want to add to your morning routine.
All of these are really simple to make, and most don’t require cooking. So even kids could make some of these options on their own.
1. Overnight Oats
Prepare overnight oats by mixing rolled oats with milk or yogurt and your choice of toppings like fruits, nuts, or seeds.
Just set it in the fridge overnight, and it’s ready to eat in the morning—no cooking required.
What’s great about this option is that there are so many possible flavor variations.
2. Greek Yogurt & Berries
Scoop some Greek yogurt into a bowl and top with fresh berries or slices of banana. For some extra crunch and fiber you can add in some granola.
It’s a tasty breakfast with protein, fiber and a serving of fruit that you can assemble in just a few minutes.
3. Smoothie Bowls
Blend up your favorite smoothie, but instead of drinking it from a cup, you pour into a bowl.
Then top with sliced fruits, nuts, granola and a sprinkle of chia seeds for a quick, energy-boosting meal.
My teenage daughter first told me about these, and I was pleasantly surprised by them.
Just make sure to make a thick smoothie, so don’t add too much liquid.
For extra protein, I add in some vanilla protein powder into my smoothies.
4. Avocado Toast
Mash avocado on whole-grain toast and top with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
For some variety, you can try adding some baby spinach leaves, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, hemp hearts or chia seeds.
Plus, for some extra protein, add a fried or poached egg on top.
5. Banana Pancakes
Mix mashed bananas, eggs, and a touch of flour to make a quick pancake batter. Cook on a hot griddle for a couple of minutes on each side. Serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
If you want to follow a recipe, you could follow this 3-ingredient Banana Pancake recipe from Cookie and Kate.
In the past I’ve had success with making regular pancake batter then mashing some bananas into the mixture.
6. Fruit and Nut Butter Sandwich
People used to associate PB & J sandwiches as a lunch option, but since most schools have nut-free policies, they have decreased in popularity. But what about for breakfast?
Spread almond butter or peanut butter on one slice of whole-grain bread. Slather some jam on another slice of bread. Put them together and within seconds you’ve got a breakfast.
You could also add slices of apple or banana, and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon for some variety.
7. Cottage Cheese Bowl
Scoop some cottage cheese into a bowl and top with pineapple chunks, berries or bananas.
Add a sprinkle of nuts or granola for crunch.
I’ve never been a fan of cottage cheese, but my kids enjoy it so it is a quick and easy way for them to consume some protein before school.
8. Egg Muffins
Whisk eggs with a bit of milk, diced vegetables, and cheese. Pour into well-greased muffin tins and bake for about 25-30 minutes at 350-F.
Make these ahead of time and reheat for a super quick breakfast.
If you want a recipe to follow, AllRecipes has a popular recipe on their website.
9. Breakfast Wrap
I love breakfast wraps! There are so many flavor possibilities with just simple ingredients and spices.
Fill a tortilla wrap with scrambled eggs, and your choice of veggies such as baby spinach, avocado, green onions or diced red peppers. Then add some shredded cheese or feta cheese. Season with your favorite spices.
Roll it up for an easy, hand-held meal you can eat on the go.
If you have a bit of extra time, you could add some crumbled bacon or sausage.
10. Chia Pudding
Mix chia seeds with milk or a dairy-free alternative and let it sit in the fridge overnight.
In the morning, top with fresh fruits and a drizzle of honey for a sweet start.
For flavor ideas, check out my article on chia seed pudding options.
11. Ham and Cheese Croissant
Slice a pre-made croissant in half. Stuff it with slices of ham and cheese.
Then warm it up in a toaster oven or microwave until the cheese melts.
It’s a savory, satisfying breakfast that’s ready in just a few minutes.
I hope some of these have given you some good ideas on what you can whip up for your kids on a busy morning.
Up Next:
Are your kids hungry after school? Check out this list of quick after-school snacks for some helpful ideas.
Do you like chia pudding? Check out these other Chia Seed Pudding recipes.
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