A little prep work on the weekend and you’ve got a protein-packed meal that’s ready to heat and eat in these Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls. Perfect for busy mornings, these bowls feature fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, and melty cheese combined with veggie-loaded hash brown potatoes. They’re not just delicious but also versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes total time, you can whip up multiple servings for the week.
- Protein-Packed: Each bowl is loaded with eggs and ham, providing a satisfying start to your day.
- Freezer-Friendly: These bowls can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for future meals.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make several portions at once, saving you time during your busy week.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools that will simplify your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides enough space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for whisking eggs and cream together smoothly before cooking.
- Spatula: Helps in stirring and breaking up the eggs as they cook, ensuring they don’t stick to the pan.
Ingredients
For these delicious Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls, gather the following ingredients:
Eggs and Dairy
- 12-15 eggs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp cream
Vegetables and Hash Browns
- 1 large green pepper (seeded & diced)
- 1 small yellow onion (peeled & diced)
- 1 pkg refrigerated diced hash brown potatoes
Meats and Cheese
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Step 1: Cook the Eggs
- Add the butter to a large skillet set over medium heat.
- While the butter melts, crack the eggs into a mixing bowl. Pour in the cream and whisk together until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture into the hot skillet with melted butter. Reduce the heat to low.
- Cook the eggs using a spatula to scoop them, breaking them up as they cook until just underdone. Transfer scrambled eggs to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Hash Browns
- In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat.
- Once heated, add the refrigerated hash browns to the pan.
- Spread them into an even layer and let them cook for 5 minutes before scraping and turning them.
- Spread them out again evenly and let them cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add the diced green pepper, onion, and chopped ham into the skillet with hash browns.
- Stir everything together to incorporate evenly.
- Spread out into an even layer again and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes while stirring as needed.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
Remove from heat when everything is cooked through. You can now portion out your breakfast bowls by layering scrambled eggs on top of the hash brown mixture.
Enjoy your nutritious Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls!
How to Serve Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
These Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are perfect for busy mornings. They can be easily customized with different toppings and sides to suit your taste preferences.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle over the top for a burst of flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright touch and enhances presentation.
With Hot Sauce
- Sriracha: Drizzle on top for those who like it spicy.
- Tabasco: A few drops can elevate the overall taste of your breakfast bowl.
With Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Add creamy slices for extra richness.
- Guacamole: A dollop on top gives a fresh twist.
As a Wrap
- Tortilla Wraps: Use the contents of the bowl as a filling for a quick breakfast burrito.
- Pita Bread: Perfect for stuffing, making it easy to enjoy on-the-go.
How to Perfect Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
To make your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls even better, consider the following tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and eggs enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Pre-portion: Divide into bowls immediately after cooking for easy grab-and-go meals.
- Cool Completely Before Storing: This prevents condensation, keeping your breakfast bowls fresh longer.
- Experiment with Protein: Swap out ham for turkey, bacon, or tofu to vary flavors and textures.
Best Side Dishes for Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Pair these bowls with delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added texture.
- Toast with Jam: Simple and sweet, perfect for additional carbs.
- Smoothie: Blend fruits and vegetables for a nutritious drinkable option.
- Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought bars are great for extra energy.
- Oatmeal Cups: Pre-packaged oatmeal cups offer fiber and warmth alongside your breakfast bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
Overcooking the Eggs: Cooking eggs too long can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat when they’re just underdone.
Using Stale Ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check the expiration dates on your eggs, cheese, and other ingredients to ensure quality.
Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mix! A pinch of salt and pepper enhances flavor significantly. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Not Prepping Ahead: These bowls are all about convenience. Take time on the weekend to prepare everything. It’ll save you time during busy mornings.
Ignoring Portion Sizes: Make sure to measure your servings. This helps with portion control and ensures you have enough for everyone throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Keep bowls separated if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about making Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls? Here are some common inquiries:
Can I customize my Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls?
Yes! You can add different veggies, proteins, or spices based on your preferences.
How long do these breakfast bowls last?
These bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use egg whites or plant-based egg substitutes as a healthier option.
What vegetables work best in these breakfast bowls?
You can use bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or any of your favorite vegetables that cook well with eggs.
Final Thoughts
Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are not only convenient but also versatile. You can customize them based on your tastes or dietary needs. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious start to your busy mornings!
Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Start your busy mornings off right with these Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls. Packed with fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, and melty cheese, combined with veggie-loaded hash brown potatoes, they offer a deliciously satisfying meal that can be prepped in advance. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick lunch, these bowls are not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences. With just a little weekend prep, you’ll have protein-packed meals ready to heat and eat throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12-15 eggs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp cream
- 1 large green pepper (diced)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 package refrigerated diced hash brown potatoes
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk together eggs and cream in a mixing bowl until smooth, then add the mixture to the skillet.
- Cook eggs gently until just underdone; transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, heat canola oil and cook hash browns for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in green pepper, onion, and ham; cook until everything is heated through.
- Layer the scrambled eggs on top of the hash brown mixture in meal prep containers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 320mg
