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The Best Cheap And Easy College Breakfast Ideas

College· Wellness

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Are you looking for the best college breakfast ideas?

College life is often a juggling act of classes, homework, social activities, and perhaps even a part-time job. Amidst this hectic schedule, breakfast can sometimes fall by the wayside.

However, starting your day with a nutritious meal doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Here are twelve cheap and easy college breakfast ideas that will keep you fueled and focused throughout your busy day.

1. Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are a lifesaver for busy mornings. Simply mix oats with milk or a milk substitute and let them sit in the fridge overnight. In the morning, you can add your favorite toppings such as fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of honey. This versatile breakfast is not only cheap but also packed with fiber and nutrients to keep you full until lunchtime.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup milk or milk substitute
  • Toppings of your choice (fruits, nuts, seeds, honey)

Instructions:

  1. Combine oats and milk in a jar or bowl.
  2. Stir well and cover.
  3. Refrigerate overnight.
  4. Add desired toppings in the morning.
Overnight Oats

2. Yogurt Parfait

A yogurt parfait is both delicious and visually appealing. Layer yogurt with granola and fruits in a cup or bowl for a quick and nutritious breakfast. Greek yogurt is an excellent option as it is higher in protein, keeping you satisfied for longer.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yogurt (Greek or regular)
  • 1/2 cup granola
  • Fresh or frozen fruits

Instructions:

  1. Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits in a cup or bowl.
  2. Repeat layers if desired.
  3. Enjoy immediately or prepare the night before for a grab-and-go option.

3. Smoothie

Smoothies are perfect for those mornings when you’re on the go. Blend your favorite fruits with some spinach, a scoop of protein powder, and a liquid base like water, milk, or juice. This breakfast is packed with vitamins and can be consumed on your way to class.

Ingredients:

  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup frozen berries
  • 1 handful spinach
  • 1 cup milk or juice
  • Optional: protein powder or Greek yogurt

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour into a portable cup and enjoy.
Fruit Smoothie

4. Peanut Butter Banana Toast

This classic combination is quick, easy, and packed with protein and potassium. Simply spread peanut butter on whole-grain toast and top with banana slices. Sprinkle with chia seeds or a drizzle of honey for added nutrients and sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 1 slice whole-grain bread
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 1 banana, sliced
  • Optional: chia seeds or honey

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread.
  2. Spread peanut butter on the toast.
  3. Top with banana slices.
  4. Add chia seeds or honey if desired.

5. Breakfast Burrito

Breakfast burritos can be made ahead of time and frozen for convenience. Fill a tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies. Wrap it up and either eat it immediately or freeze for a quick breakfast later on.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large tortilla
  • 2 eggs, scrambled
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese
  • Veggies (spinach, bell peppers, onions)

Instructions:

  1. Scramble the eggs and cook the veggies.
  2. Place eggs, cheese, and veggies in the center of the tortilla.
  3. Roll up the tortilla, folding in the sides as you go.
  4. Eat immediately or wrap in foil and freeze.
Breakfast Burrito

6. Chia Pudding

Chia pudding is another great make-ahead breakfast. Mix chia seeds with milk and let it sit overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a thick, pudding-like consistency that you can top with fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup milk or milk substitute
  • Toppings of your choice

Instructions:

  1. Mix chia seeds and milk in a jar or bowl.
  2. Stir well and refrigerate overnight.
  3. Add toppings in the morning.

7. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is trendy for a reason – it’s delicious and nutritious. Simply mash half an avocado and spread it on whole-grain toast. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. For added protein, top with a poached egg.

Ingredients:

  • 1 slice whole-grain bread
  • 1/2 avocado
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional: lemon juice, poached egg

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread.
  2. Mash the avocado and spread it on the toast.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  4. Add a poached egg on top if desired.
Avocado Toast

8. Cottage Cheese with Fruit

Cottage cheese is a high-protein, low-fat option that pairs well with fresh or canned fruit. This combination makes for a quick and satisfying breakfast that’s also easy on the wallet.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • Fresh or canned fruit (pineapple, berries, peaches)

Instructions:

  1. Scoop cottage cheese into a bowl.
  2. Top with fruit.
  3. Enjoy!

9. Banana Pancakes

Banana pancakes are a healthier twist on the classic breakfast dish. Mix mashed bananas with eggs and a bit of baking powder to create a simple, gluten-free batter. Cook as you would regular pancakes and top with your favorite fruits or syrup.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe banana, mashed
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

  1. Mix mashed banana, eggs, and baking powder in a bowl.
  2. Pour batter onto a heated non-stick skillet.
  3. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
  4. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Banana Pancakes

10. Breakfast Quesadilla

A breakfast quesadilla is a tasty way to start your day. Fill a tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, and any leftover veggies. Cook it in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large tortilla
  • 2 eggs, scrambled
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese
  • Leftover veggies

Instructions:

  1. Scramble the eggs and cook any veggies if needed.
  2. Place the tortilla in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add eggs, cheese, and veggies to half of the tortilla.
  4. Fold the tortilla over and cook until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy.
  5. Cut into wedges and serve.

11. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a budget-friendly breakfast staple that can be customized to your liking. Cook oats on the stovetop or in the microwave and add your favorite toppings. Consider adding fruits, nuts, seeds, or a dollop of peanut butter for extra flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup oats
  • 1 cup water or milk
  • Toppings of your choice

Instructions:

  1. Combine oats and water or milk in a pot or microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cook on the stovetop or microwave until oats are tender.
  3. Add toppings and serve.
Oatmeal

12. Egg Muffins

Egg muffins are perfect for meal prep. Mix eggs with your favorite veggies and cheese, pour into a muffin tin, and bake. These can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick, protein-packed breakfast.

Ingredients:

  • 6 eggs
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • Chopped veggies (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Whisk eggs in a bowl and mix in cheese and veggies.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Pour mixture into a greased muffin tin.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until eggs are set.
  6. Cool and store in the fridge.

Conclusion

This post showed you the best cheap and easy college breakfast ideas.

Eating a healthy breakfast doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can enjoy a variety of nutritious and delicious meals that fit your budget and schedule.

These twelve breakfast ideas are perfect for college students looking to fuel their day without breaking the bank. Give them a try and see how easy it can be to start your day off right!

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