Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls Recipe
If your mornings are a whirlwind of activity and you still want a warm, nourishing start to your day, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls. They come together with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, sweet bell peppers, savory ham, and gooey cheddar—each bite is hearty and comforting. The real magic? You prep them in advance, stash them in the fridge, and enjoy a homemade breakfast any day of the week in minutes. With bold flavors and beautiful colors in every bowl, this is the breakfast that will spark joy in even the groggiest mornings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of strategic ingredients come together to make these Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls sing. Each component is chosen not only for taste, but for the perfect blend of texture, color, and staying power so your breakfast feels just as satisfying five days from now as it does on day one!
- Eggs: The cornerstone of the bowl, making the base creamy and packed with protein.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps give those scrambled eggs their luscious texture.
- Cream: A splash transforms your eggs into something extra silky and special.
- Canola oil: The secret to crisp, golden hash browns without sticking.
- Green pepper: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and a pop of color.
- Yellow onion: Gives a hint of savory sweetness that ties the bowl together.
- Refrigerated diced hash brown potatoes: For easy prep and the ultimate breakfast potato crispiness.
- Chopped ham: Infuses the bowl with savory, meaty flavor—plus extra protein.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A melty layer that makes the whole breakfast feel extra cozy.
How to Make Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Step 1: Prepare the Scrambled Eggs
Start by melting your butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Crack your eggs into a mixing bowl, pour in the cream, and whisk until smooth and fluffy—this little bit of cream makes a massive difference in texture. Pour that mixture into the skillet, lower the heat, and use a spatula to gently scramble. Cook these until they’re just barely done (they’ll finish as they cool), then move them to a plate and set aside. This keeps your eggs tender instead of rubbery!
Step 2: Crisp the Hash Browns
In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of canola oil and let it warm up over medium heat. Spread your refrigerated hash browns in an even layer, then (this part’s important) resist the urge to stir for a good 5 minutes! That’s the secret to the golden crust. After the first side is crisp, flip and do the same on the other side.
Step 3: Add Veggies & Ham
Toss in your diced green pepper, onion, and chopped ham right into the skillet with the potatoes. Stir everything together so the vegetables can lightly caramelize, the ham gets just a hint of crispy edge, and the flavors really meld. Let it cook in an even layer another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring when needed until the onions are tender and the hash browns are crisp all over.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Now for the fun part: assembly! Layer a scoop of scrambled eggs into the bottom of each bowl, then sprinkle with some cheddar. Divide the potato-veggie-ham mix evenly on top, and finish with another shower of cheddar for that melty magic later. Let the bowls cool, pop the lids on, and there you have it—Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls ready for the fridge!
Step 5: Chill and Store
Once assembled, let your bowls come down to room temperature before refrigerating. This preserves the best texture and keeps everything fresh. Store your breakfast bowls for up to five days—maximum convenience, minimal morning effort.
How to Serve Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Garnishes
The finishing touches can elevate your breakfast from tasty to truly special. Try topping your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls with freshly chopped chives, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce. Even a little dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa can add a wonderful zing and extra color.
Side Dishes
While these bowls are super satisfying on their own, you can pair them with a side of fresh fruit, a toasted English muffin, or even a crisp green salad if you’re making a late breakfast or brunch. If you want a morning feast, a cup of yogurt or a warm latte rounds things out beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra flair, serve the bowls in clear glass containers so you can show off those pretty layers. If you’re feeling fancy or hosting brunch, sprinkle microgreens or sliced avocado on top. Or, assemble in small mason jars for a picnic-ready twist on the classic Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls have cooled, seal them tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to five days, making them a real game-changer for meal prep enthusiasts or anyone trying to streamline their morning.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these bowls! Let them cool completely first, then store in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Just know that the texture of eggs may change a little after freezing—they might not be as fluffy but will still taste delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, simply remove the lid and pop a bowl in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure everything heats evenly. If you’re reheating from frozen, let the bowl thaw in the fridge overnight for best results before microwaving. For added crisp, you can also warm the hash brown layer in a skillet before assembling.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ham with another protein?
Absolutely! Feel free to use crisp crumbled bacon or cooked breakfast sausage instead of ham—a great way to personalize your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls or use up what you have on hand.
Are these breakfast bowls gluten free?
They can be, as long as your hash brown potatoes don’t contain any added wheat products. Always check the ingredient list to make sure your potatoes are certified gluten free if that’s important for your diet.
Can I add different vegetables?
Definitely! Try diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach for a flavor twist. Just avoid watery veggies like zucchini (unless cooked well) to keep your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls from getting soggy.
How far in advance can I make these?
You can assemble and refrigerate these bowls up to five days ahead of time. Batch cooking for the week takes minimal effort and guarantees a swift, tasty breakfast every morning—even on your busiest days.
What’s the best way to portion the bowls?
This recipe makes 4 to 6 bowls, depending on your serving size. If you like a big breakfast or plan to eat just one meal in the morning, stick with four; if you want a lighter portion, stretch it to six. Just divide the ingredients as evenly as possible for consistent flavor.
Final Thoughts
Give these Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls a try and discover just how delicious and convenient mornings can be. With layers of flavor, simple prep, and seriously satisfying comfort in every bite, they’ll quickly become a part of your weekly routine. Here’s to better, brighter breakfasts—one bowl at a time!
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Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are the perfect solution for busy mornings. Packed with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, savory ham, and gooey cheddar cheese, these hearty bowls are easy to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients
Eggs:
12-15 eggs,
Butter Mixture:
2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp cream,
Canola Oil:
4 tbsp canola oil,
Veggies:
1 large green pepper (seeded & diced), 1 small yellow onion (peeled & diced),
Hash Browns:
1 pkg refrigerated diced hash brown potatoes,
Protein:
1 cup chopped ham,
Cheese:
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook Eggs: Melt butter in a skillet, whisk eggs and cream, cook until slightly underdone, set aside.
- Cook Hash Browns: Heat canola oil, cook hash browns until crispy.
- Add Veggies & Ham: Add vegetables and ham, cook until tender.
- Assemble Bowls: Layer scrambled eggs, cheese, hash brown mixture, and more cheese in bowls. Let cool and refrigerate.
Notes
- A cast iron skillet is recommended for best results.
- This recipe can be portioned to make 4-6 bowls.
- Substitute bacon or sausage for ham, and use different cheese if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 656 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 878mg
- Fat: 43g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 550mg
Keywords: Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls, Grab & Go Breakfast, Breakfast Meal Prep
