Breakfast Ideas For A Crowd On A Budget

Name: Breakfast Ideas For A Crowd On A Budget
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: Serves 12
Ingredients: 12 eggs; 3 cups milk; 8 cups diced bread; 2 cups shredded cheese; 1 pound cooked sausage or bacon; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pre-made pie crusts; 4 cups mixed berries (frozen or fresh); 1 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Fast Meals

I love hosting brunches for family and friends, but I know how expensive it can get. With this recipe, I’ve come up with creative breakfast ideas that won’t break the bank. Each dish is easy to prepare in large quantities and bursting with flavor. From savory casseroles to sweet pastries, there's something for everyone. My goal was to create meals that bring people together without sacrificing quality, and I think you'll find these ideas are not only wallet-friendly but also absolutely delicious!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:21:38.842Z

I had a large group coming over for brunch, and I wanted to impress them without overspending. After brainstorming, I settled on a few flexible dishes that could be adjusted easily based on what's in season or on sale. To make it easy, I prepared several items the night before, letting me focus on the fun part: spending time with my guests!

This method not only saves money but also time. I discovered that dishes like breakfast casseroles and baked goods can be made ahead and simply reheated. Planning the menu around economic ingredients like eggs, potatoes, and seasonal fruits made it all possible. You'll love how simple it is to cater for a crowd!

Why You'll Love These Breakfast Ideas
Budget-friendly ingredients that still pack a punch
Dishes that can be made ahead of time for stress-free hosting
Variety to please both sweet and savory lovers

Make-Ahead Magic

One of the best things about the savory casserole is how it can be prepared the night before. This not only saves you time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. After mixing all the ingredients, be sure to cover the dish tightly in the refrigerator. A tip: If you find yourself short on time, you can bake it covered with foil for the first 30 minutes to retain moisture before uncovering it for the final baking time.

The sweet pastries are another dish that shines when made ahead of time. By assembling the pie right before baking, you can refrigerate it for a couple of hours or even overnight. This approach allows you to appreciate the flaky crust and melded flavors of the filling during baking. Just remember to let the pastries sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before popping them in the oven, ensuring even cooking and a golden crust.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of eggs and milk in the savory casserole creates a rich and fluffy base. Make sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly until they are fully integrated, which helps avoid any rubbery texture post-baking. Feel free to swap out the sausage or bacon for a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a lighter take. The cheese not only adds flavor but also aids in binding the casserole together—if you're feeling adventurous, try using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella.

For the sweet pastries, using mixed berries not only provides a burst of flavor but also adds a beautiful color contrast. If you're using frozen berries, there's no need to thaw them first; they will release juices as they bake. The cornstarch plays a crucial role in thickening the berry juices, preventing a soggy bottom crust. If fresh blueberries or peaches are on hand, they can seamlessly replace the mixed berries for a seasonal twist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make breakfast a hit:

Savory Casserole

12 eggs
3 cups milk
8 cups diced bread
2 cups shredded cheese
1 pound cooked sausage or bacon
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
Salt and pepper to taste

Sweet Pastries

2 pre-made pie crusts
4 cups mixed berries (frozen or fresh)
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Having a mix of both savory and sweet will make your brunch a success!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious brunch:

Prepare the Savory Casserole

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Fold in the bread, cheese, sausage, bell pepper, onion, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour into a greased baking dish and cover. Chill overnight.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is firm. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Make the Sweet Pastries

In a bowl, combine the berries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. Lay one pie crust in a greased pie pan, fill with the berry mixture, and top with the second crust. Cut slits to allow steam to escape.

Bake the Pastries

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your brunch and the smiles it brings!

Pro Tips

Always shop seasonal and local to keep costs low. For more variety, consider adding some fresh fruit or a simple yogurt bar as an alternative offering!

Serving Suggestions

Serving the savory casserole hot from the oven creates an inviting experience. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance its richness. Providing a variety of toppings like diced avocados, salsa, or additional cheese on a side table allows guests to personalize their plates. This dish also reheats beautifully, making leftovers an excellent option for busy weekdays.

The sweet pastries can be served warm or at room temperature, allowing their flavors to shine. They pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist. I love serving them with a sprinkling of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Consider cutting them into smaller slices if serving at a party to encourage sharing and sampling.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover savory casserole, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you’re short on time, microwaving slices is an option too, but be careful not to overcook, as it can lead to dried-out edges.

The sweet pastries can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, restoring their crispy texture for an enjoyable treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, cover it, and bake it in the morning.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a combination of silken tofu or commercial egg replacers for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Both the casserole and pastries can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

→ What other ingredients can I add to the casserole?

Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap the meat for ham or mushrooms.