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; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced onions; 2 cups shredded cheese; 1 pound breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I love hosting breakfast gatherings but often find myself worried about the costs involved. Fortunately, I've uncovered a variety of delicious breakfast ideas that are not only easy on the wallet but also impressively satisfying. From hearty casseroles to quick pancake stacks, these recipes cater to large groups without breaking the bank. Each dish is not only cost-effective but packed with flavor, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy. Let's dive into these fantastic breakfast options that make feeding a crowd a breeze!

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:13:35.407Z

When we decided to have a breakfast gathering for our friends, the challenge was to create something delightful yet budget-friendly. After some experimenting, we settled on a mix of baked egg dishes and a bulk pancake recipe that truly amazed everyone, especially with the toppings we prepared!

One of my favorite tricks is to use seasonal fruits and budget-friendly spices to elevate the flavors without adding much cost. It’s incredible how simple ingredients can transform into something truly gourmet with the right combinations.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious and hearty recipes that everyone will enjoy
Budget-friendly ingredients that make hosting affordable
Simple preparation strategies that save time and effort

Casserole Techniques

For a successful breakfast casserole, ensure that your egg mixture is well-whisked to combine the eggs and milk thoroughly. This helps create a smooth and fluffy texture once baked. When incorporating the bell peppers and onions, consider sautéing them first for about 5 minutes to mellow their raw flavors, making your dish more flavorful. An oven thermometer can also be a helpful tool to ensure your oven is accurately preheated to 350°F—it can make a significant difference in cooking times.

To prevent the casserole from sticking, generously greasing your baking dish is important. I recommend using a non-stick spray or butter to coat the pan evenly. After baking for 30 minutes, check for doneness by gently shaking the dish; it should be set and not jiggly in the center. If it still looks wet, continue baking it in 5-minute increments until fully set, and consider covering it with foil if the top turns golden too quickly.

Perfecting Pancakes

When making pancakes, the secret to achieving the perfect fluffiness lies in not overmixing the batter. You want to combine the wet and dry ingredients until just moistened; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes, which are less enjoyable. Using fresh buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and reacts wonderfully with the baking soda for that airy structure—if you're out of buttermilk, you can easily substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

For the best cooking results, preheat your griddle or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. When the batter is poured onto the pan, look for bubbles to form on the surface before flipping, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This visual cue indicates that the bottom is golden brown, ensuring a delicious contrast between the crisp exterior and soft interior. Remember to keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

12 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced onions
2 cups shredded cheese
1 pound breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
Salt and pepper to taste

Pancake Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Casserole

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Stir in the bell peppers, onions, cheese, and sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until set.

Make the Pancakes

In another bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Heat a griddle and cook pancakes until bubbles form, then flip to cook the other side.

Pro Tips

Try to use seasonal fruits for topping on pancakes to enhance flavors and keep costs low. You can also mix and match fresh herbs and spices in the casserole for different flavor profiles each time you make it.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Both the casserole and pancakes can be prepared in advance, making your morning stress-free. You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. In the morning, just pop it right into a preheated oven; you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. Pancakes can also be made ahead and stored. Once cooled, stack them between parchment paper and place in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge or longer in the freezer.

To reheat pancakes, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave for a quick warm-up. For the casserole, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from browning further and heat at 300°F until warmed through, usually around 20 minutes. This way, you can enjoy delicious breakfasts for days without much extra effort.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavors in your breakfast casserole! Consider adding fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, or zucchini for extra nutrients and vibrant color. You can also customize the cheese type; cheddar and Monterey Jack pair well with the other ingredients, while feta or goat cheese would add a unique twist. If your crowd has varying tastes, consider serving different toppings alongside, such as salsa or avocado slices, to allow everyone to personalize their plate.

For the pancakes, mix-ins can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Try adding blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for added texture and taste. If you're feeling adventurous, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients; this simple addition can transform basic pancakes into a more festive breakfast choice. Just remember, if adding wet ingredients like fruit, you might need to adjust the flour slightly to achieve the right consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the casserole the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it in the morning.

→ What can I substitute for sausage in the casserole?

You can use turkey sausage, bacon, or even omit meat entirely for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I keep the pancakes warm?

Place the cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F) while you finish making the rest.

→ Can I use almond milk as a substitute?

Absolutely! Almond milk can be used in both the casserole and pancake recipes for a dairy-free option.