Breakfast Ideas For A Crowd On A Budget

Name: Breakfast Ideas For A Crowd On A Budget
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 12 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 4 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach); 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 loaf of bread, cubed; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Delights

I love hosting breakfast gatherings, but keeping it budget-friendly can be a challenge. That's why I've developed a variety of delicious breakfast ideas that won't break the bank. From hearty casseroles to whimsical pancakes, these dishes are crowd-pleasers that not only save money but also create a lively dining atmosphere. Join me as I share some of my favorite recipes that are simple to prepare and truly satisfying, perfect for any occasion with family and friends.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:04:19.919Z

When I first started planning breakfast for a large group, I quickly realized the importance of choosing ingredients wisely. I experimented with various recipes and discovered that dishes like frittatas and pancake stacks were not only budget-friendly but also very filling. Moreover, the flavors you can create with a few simple herbs and spices can make all the difference!

One of my go-to dishes is a savory breakfast casserole loaded with eggs, cheese, and seasonal vegetables. Baking it all together allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it frees up my time to mingle with guests while it cooks in the oven. Trust me, this method is not just efficient but absolutely delightful!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creative combinations that suit all tastes.
Affordable ingredients that don't skimp on flavor.
Easy preparation allowing time for enjoyment with guests.

Savory Breakfast Casserole Tips

The Savory Breakfast Casserole is an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables and stale bread. Caramelizing the veggies slightly in olive oil before adding them to the egg mixture can enhance their flavors. Aim for a cooking time of around 5-7 minutes over medium heat until they are tender and fragrant. This small step adds depth and richness to the final dish.

When baking the casserole, start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. The dish is done when the eggs are set (not jiggly) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing; this makes serving easier and allows flavors to meld.

Perfect Pancake Techniques

For Fluffy Pancakes, avoid overmixing the batter; a few lumps are acceptable. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes. Once you see bubbles forming on the surface (usually around 2-3 minutes), flip them gently with a spatula for a golden-brown finish. If using a non-stick skillet, maintain a medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.

Consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the buttermilk mixture for an aromatic twist. If you're short on buttermilk, you can substitute it with ordinary milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice—let it sit for 5-10 minutes before use. This slight acidity contributes to the pancakes’ fluffiness.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delicious breakfast:

Savory Breakfast Casserole

12 large eggs
2 cups milk
4 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 loaf of bread, cubed

Fluffy Pancakes

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups buttermilk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter

And don’t forget your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Let's get cooking:

Prepare the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add the salt, pepper, and cubed bread. Stir in the diced vegetables and half of the cheese. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for 30 minutes.

Make the Pancakes

In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form, then flip to the other side.

Serve warm and enjoy your gathering!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your casserole with different vegetables or proteins according to what's on sale. Make the pancake batter ahead of time for an even quicker breakfast setup!

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Savory Breakfast Casserole with fresh fruit or a simple mixed green salad for a balanced meal. For extra flavor, consider offering a hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on the side, allowing your guests to customize their servings. This makes for a more interactive and enjoyable dining experience.

When it comes to pancakes, the options for toppings are endless. Serve them with maple syrup, whipped cream, or even yogurt for added creaminess. You can also set up a pancake bar with various toppings like berries, chocolate chips, and nuts so everyone can customize their plate.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Both the casserole and pancakes can be made ahead of time to simplify your breakfast gathering. The casserole can be assembled a day prior, stored in the refrigerator, and baked fresh in the morning. If you do this, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through completely.

Leftover pancakes can be stacked between parchment paper and stored in an airtight container. Reheat them in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast. You can also freeze cooked pancakes for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed, making breakfast hassle-free on busy mornings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What toppings can I use for the pancakes?

Pretty much anything! Fresh fruit, syrup, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of nuts work well.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! The casserole and pancakes freeze well. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers.

→ How can I ensure my pancakes are fluffy?

Avoid overmixing the batter; it's okay if there are a few lumps! This helps keep your pancakes light and fluffy.