A little prep work on the weekend and you’ve got a protein-packed meal that’s ready to heat & eat, grab and go in these Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls. Perfect for busy mornings, these bowls feature fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham & cheese, and veggie-laden hash browns to keep you fueled throughout the day. They are versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a week’s worth of breakfasts in no time.
- Packed with Protein: Each bowl is loaded with eggs and ham to help you stay energized.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make several at once and store them for quick access during the week.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ham, cheese, and veggies creates an irresistible taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make these breakfast bowls efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Food storage containers
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents food from sticking, making cooking and cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without mess.
- Spatula: Perfect for scrambling eggs evenly and turning hash browns without breaking them.
Ingredients
Eggs and Dairy
- 12-15 eggs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp cream
Vegetables
- 1 large green pepper (seeded & diced)
- 1 small yellow onion (peeled & diced)
Starch
- 1 pkg refrigerated diced hash brown potatoes
Protein
- 1 cup chopped ham
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Step 1: Scramble 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 as they cook until just a hair underdone. Transfer scrambled eggs to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Hash Browns
- In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat.
- Once heated, add the hash browns to the pan.
- Spread them out evenly and let cook for 5 minutes.
- Scrape and turn them over; spread out again and cook another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add the diced green pepper, onion, and chopped ham to the skillet with hash browns.
- Stir everything together to evenly incorporate the ingredients.
- 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 the skillet from heat.
- Layer equal portions of scrambled eggs, hash brown mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese into food storage containers.
With these simple steps, you’ll have hearty Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls ready for your busy mornings!
How to Serve Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are perfect for busy mornings. They can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or reheated in minutes. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Berries – Add a handful of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing touch.
- Banana Slices – A banana pairs well with your savory breakfast bowl and provides extra energy.
- Citrus Segments – Oranges or grapefruit segments add a burst of brightness to your meal.
Enjoy with Toast
- Whole Grain Toast – Serve alongside toasted whole grain bread for added fiber.
- Avocado Toast – Top your toast with smashed avocado for healthy fats and creaminess.
- Garlic Bread – For a twist, garlic bread complements the flavors of the breakfast bowl.
Drizzle with Hot Sauce
- Spicy Kick – A few drops of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile of your bowls.
- Sriracha – This tangy sauce adds heat and pairs excellently with eggs.
Add a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens – A light salad with mixed greens brings freshness and crunch to your breakfast.
- Tomato Cucumber Salad – This refreshing side is quick to prepare and adds nutrients.
How to Perfect Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
To ensure your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are delicious every time, consider these simple tips.
- Cook Eggs Carefully – Avoid overcooking the eggs; they should be soft and fluffy for the best texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and quality ham to enhance flavors and nutrition.
- Store Properly – Use airtight containers for storage to keep ingredients fresh throughout the week.
- Reheat Gently – When reheating, do so on low heat to maintain the integrity of the eggs and prevent drying out.
Best Side Dishes for Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Serving side dishes alongside your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Greek Yogurt – Creamy yogurt adds probiotics and pairs well with fruit toppings.
- Smoothie – Blend fruits and spinach for an easy-to-drink nutrient boost.
- Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal makes for a filling addition, topped with nuts or honey.
- Granola Bars – These are easy to grab on-the-go, providing crunch and fiber.
- Cheese Cubes – Offer a variety of cheeses for snacking that complements the savory flavors.
- Nut Butter Toasts – Spread almond or peanut butter on toast for an extra protein kick.
- Breakfast Muffins – Mini muffins make great finger food options that add sweetness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls, avoiding common pitfalls ensures a delicious outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the prep work: Not prepping your ingredients can lead to a chaotic cooking experience. Take time on the weekend to chop veggies and measure out ingredients.
- Overcooking the eggs: Cooking eggs too long will make them rubbery. Remove them from heat while they’re slightly underdone, as they will continue cooking off-heat.
- Ignoring seasoning: Lack of seasoning can result in bland bowls. Be sure to season each component well, especially the eggs and hash browns.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can ruin the flavor of your dish. Invest in good quality eggs, cheese, and ham for the best taste.
- Not allowing enough cooling time: Serving hot ingredients directly into storage containers can cause condensation and sogginess. Let everything cool before packing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Allow the breakfast bowls to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
- Freeze in individual portions for easy access.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for optimal freshness.
Reheating Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Cover bowl with a microwave-safe lid. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls?
Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are pre-prepared meals that combine protein, veggies, and hearty ingredients, making mornings easier.
How long do these breakfast bowls last?
When stored properly, these bowls can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I customize my Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls?
Absolutely! You can swap out proteins, use different vegetables, or even try various cheeses based on your preference.
What other meals work as make-ahead options?
You might enjoy meal prepping lunch bowls, overnight oats, or smoothie packs as additional make-ahead meal solutions.
Final Thoughts
These Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are an incredible way to ensure you start your day on the right foot. With their flexibility for customization and ease of preparation, they’re perfect for busy mornings or any time you need a satisfying meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients!
Breakfast
Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls
Grab & Go Make Ahead Breakfast Bowls are your ultimate solution for busy mornings. Packed with fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, melty cheddar cheese, and veggie-filled hash browns, these bowls offer a delicious and nutritious meal that’s ready when you are. With minimal prep work on the weekend, you can have a week’s worth of protein-packed breakfasts at your fingertips. Just heat and enjoy! These bowls are versatile enough to serve at breakfast, brunch, or even as a satisfying lunch or snack. Customize them based on your favorite ingredients to keep things fresh and exciting throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 5
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12-15 eggs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 large green pepper (seeded & diced)
- 1 small yellow onion (peeled & diced)
- 1 pkg refrigerated diced hash brown potatoes
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Scramble the Eggs: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk together eggs and cream, add to the skillet, and cook until just underdone. Set aside.
- Cook Hash Browns: In the same skillet with canola oil over medium heat, cook hash browns for about 10 minutes until crispy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add diced green pepper, onion, and chopped ham to the hash browns. Mix well and cook for another 5-10 minutes.
- Assemble Bowls: Layer equal portions of scrambled eggs, hash brown mixture, and cheese into food storage containers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 380mg
