Extension for Real Life
Breakfast Matters: How to Make It Simple
With a few simple recipes, your family can have a nutritious breakfast even on hectic mornings.
We’ve all heard it before: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And guess what? The research agrees—especially for kids and teens. Starting the morning with a healthy meal fuels the body and the brain, helping children show up ready to learn and stay on task.
Whether your kids eat at home or grab something at school, the important part is that they eat breakfast. Studies show those who eat breakfast tend to have better school attendance, arrive on time more often, and are more likely to get enough calcium for growing bones.
But what about adults? A balanced breakfast can also give you that extra energy boost to kick off your day right.
If you think grabbing a bite in the mornings takes too long, the good news is that breakfast doesn’t have to take forever to prepare. Back-to-school mornings can be hectic, but with a bit of planning, you can keep things both simple and healthy.
Try these family-friendly options:
Sheet Pan Eggs & Veggies
Think of this as meal-prep magic. Toss your favorite veggies—fresh or frozen—on a sheet pan, pour whisked eggs over them, add a little cheese, and bake at 375 degrees for about 20 minutes. Slice into squares, and you’ve got breakfast ready for the week! Serve hot, pack in a lunchbox, or wrap in foil for an on-the-go option. These eggs are kid-approved, a time-saver, and full of protein and fiber.
Recipe tip: Boost the protein and calcium by adding blended cottage cheese. Cook until the eggs reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees.
Breakfast Tacos
Scramble up some eggs or egg whites, toss in leftover veggies, sprinkle a little cheese for protein and calcium, and add a little salsa before wrapping in a tortilla. Wrap in foil or a napkin and you’ve got a grab-and-go breakfast that feels fun and customizable.
Savory Oatmeal
Oats are a nutrient powerhouse. Cook them up, add spices like turmeric, black pepper, or cayenne, and then toss in some nuts for crunch and healthy fat. A splash of vanilla ties it all together. It’s warm, filling, and gives the family a nutritious head start to the day.
Breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few go-to recipes in your back pocket, you can send your kids—and yourself—out the door with the fuel needed to start the day.
Stay tuned for more back-to-school options!
For additional tips and registered dietitian-approved recipes, join our MSU Extension Nutrition and Wellness Facebook group.
