42 Southern Breakfasts That’ll Fill You Up

Updated on Sep. 19, 2024

Cooking up a Southern breakfast is the best way to start your day—it's warm, comforting and leaves the whole family full.

1/42

Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

Total Time 15 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This biscuits and sausage gravy is an old southern recipe that I’ve adapted. Homemade sausage gravy is a classic, hearty breakfast that takes you on a trip to the South every time it’s served. —Sue Baker, Jonesboro, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 337 calories, 27g fat (14g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 718mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.
2/42

Savory Mustard Chicken and Stuffing Waffles

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Adding mustard to the chicken coating adds a tang that's amazing with the savory waffles and sweet maple syrup. —John Ginn, Carlisle, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece chicken with 2 waffles: 691 calories, 43g fat (16g saturated fat), 219mg cholesterol, 1074mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
3/42

Hash Brown Patty Casserole

Total Time 1 hour 30 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: You’ll find everything you want for breakfast—potatoes, eggs, cheese and ham—in this satisfying Hash Brown Patty Casserole. I frequently make it for church get-togethers and for company. Everybody loves it. —Iris Frank, Eureka, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 437 calories, 26g fat (16g saturated fat), 280mg cholesterol, 1307mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein.
4/42

Belgian Waffle

Total Time 30 min
Servings 10 waffles (about 4-1/2 inches)
From the Recipe Creator: It was during a visit to my husband's relatives in Europe that I was given this Belgian waffle recipe. These homemade waffles are fantastic with any kind of topping: blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, fried apples, powdered sugar or whipped topping. —Rose Delemeester, St. Charles, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 2 waffles: 701 calories, 42g fat (25g saturated fat), 179mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 72g carbohydrate (34g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
5/42

Southern Brunch Pastry Puff

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My family just about jumps out of bed when the smell of eggs, sausage and buttery pastry hits their noses. This recipe is morning magic. —Misty M. Leddick, Chester, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 587 calories, 39g fat (14g saturated fat), 208mg cholesterol, 766mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 5g fiber), 18g protein.
6/42

Coastal Carolina Muffin-Tin Frittatas

Total Time 45 min
Servings 1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Incorporating the flavors of a low country South Carolina crab boil, these tasty frittatas are easy to make and fun to eat. If you have leftover cooked potatoes (roasted or boiled), try dicing them and substituting them for the refrigerated shredded potatoes in this recipe. —Shannon Kohn, Summerville, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 frittata: 223 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 135mg cholesterol, 604mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.
7/42

Roasted Vegetable and Chevre Quiche

Total Time 1 hour 20 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Roasting the veggies in this rich yet bright quiche intensifies their flavors. The addition of fresh goat cheese lends a wonderful creamy tanginess. —Laura Davis, Chincoteague, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 219 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 471mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
8/42

Sweet Potato Dumplings

Total Time 1 hour 10 min
Servings 10 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When family stays over after a holiday dinner, we make sweet potato dumplings, bacon and eggs for breakfast. And later, we even serve these dumplings for dessert. —Mary Leverette, Columbia, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 2 dumplings: 482 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 653mg sodium, 81g carbohydrate (48g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
9/42

Easy Cheesy Loaded Grits

Total Time 1 hour 25 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A tasty bowl of grits inspired me to develop my own recipe with sausage, green chiles and cheeses. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 399 calories, 28g fat (15g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
10/42

Oatmeal Pancakes

Total Time 15 min
Servings about 10 pancakes
From the Recipe Creator: My family absolutely loves these oat pancakes. I make them every Saturday and Sunday. If I don't, they don't believe it's the weekend! My son's friends often spend the night, and I think it's because they like these oatmeal pancakes so much. They are especially delicious served with molasses and syrup. —Sharon W. Bickett, Chester, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 2 pancakes: 263 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
11/42

Corn Fritter Waffles with Spicy Maple Syrup

Total Time 20 min
Servings 6 round waffles (1 cup syrup)
From the Recipe Creator: My family used to vacation at a resort in Vermont that served corn fritters with maple syrup. Now when I serve these waffles for breakfast or supper, I'm transported back to those simple days of childhood. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 waffle with 2 tablespoons syrup: 574 calories, 23g fat (3g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 507mg sodium, 84g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
12/42

Spring Onion Pimiento Cheese Grits

Total Time 35 min
Servings 16 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Grits were a breakfast staple when I was growing up. Even today, we still have them about three times a week. The trick with grits is the more you whisk, the creamier they'll be. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 281 calories, 20g fat (10g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 231mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
13/42

Bacon, Egg & Avocado Sandwiches

Total Time 25 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My husband wanted bacon and eggs; I wanted a BLT. We settled our standoff with an irresistible sandwich we've had many times since. —Patti Darwin, Lubbock, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 448 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 209mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 18g protein.
14/42

Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake

Total Time 55 min
Servings 9 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This blueberry coffee cake smells wonderful as it bakes and tastes even better. The moist cake filled with juicy berries and crunchy pecans is a family favorite. It never lasts long at our house. —Lori Snedden, Sherman, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 476 calories, 26g fat (11g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 323mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
15/42

Brunch Puff with Sausage Gravy

Total Time 45 min
Servings 9 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When company stays overnight, I make this puff with sausage gravy as a hearty breakfast treat. It’s meaty, cheesy and delightful with a fresh fruit salad. —Danielle Cochran, Grayling, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece with 1/4 cup gravy: 546 calories, 35g fat (10g saturated fat), 193mg cholesterol, 1138mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.
16/42

Apple-Stuffed French Toast Bake

Total Time 55 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This is baked stuffed french toast casserole a great breakfast dish to make ahead for holidays or Sunday brunch. I run a bed and breakfast and tea room cafe, and this recipe is often requested by customers. —Kay Clark, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 854 calories, 46g fat (19g saturated fat), 282mg cholesterol, 722mg sodium, 102g carbohydrate (72g sugars, 5g fiber), 14g protein.
17/42

Eggs Florentine Casserole

Total Time 50 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: For our Christmas brunch, I make this variation on a classic eggs Florentine recipe, adding sausage and spinach to make a snappy casserole. Sometimes I mix in fresh peppers or green chiles, so play with it. —Karen Weekley, Washington, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 271 calories, 20g fat (9g saturated fat), 226mg cholesterol, 344mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 16g protein.
18/42

Southwest Sausage Bake

Total Time 1 hour 15 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This layered tortilla dish is not only delicious, but it's a real timesaver because it's put together the night before. The tomato slices provide a nice touch of color. I like to serve this crowd-pleasing casserole with muffins and fresh fruit. —Barbara Waddel, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 329 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 209mg cholesterol, 701mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 16g protein.
19/42

Mushroom Sausage Strata

Total Time 55 min
Servings 10 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This flavorful casserole is a hearty mainstay for our family's Christmas Day brunch menu. Being able to assemble the recipe ahead of time is a real plus! —Julie Sterchi, Jackson, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 296 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 170mg cholesterol, 491mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
20/42

Tex-Mex Quiche

Total Time 55 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I discovered this quiche recipe many years ago, and it's still one of my favorites today. It's quick and easy, yet very tasty. It's also a good dish to take to potlucks or serve as an appetizer. You might like it for a brunch or light supper, too. —Hazel Turner, Houston, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 438 calories, 30g fat (17g saturated fat), 180mg cholesterol, 985mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
21/42

Vanilla French Toast

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: We discovered this easy French toast recipe in Mexico. We couldn't figure out what made the French toast so delicious until we learned the secret was vanilla. Since then, we've added a touch of vanilla to our waffle and pancake recipes, and it makes all the difference. —Joe and Bobbi Schott, Castroville, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 2 pieces: 218 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 376mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 starch, 1 medium-fat meat.
22/42

Sausage & Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole

Total Time 50 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I made this tasty sausage and crescent roll breakfast casserole for a baby shower. It saved the day: Preparing it ahead gave me more time to finish decorating for the party. —Melody Craft, Conroe, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 283 calories, 19g fat (6g saturated fat), 160mg cholesterol, 662mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 15g protein.
23/42

Baked Two-Cheese & Bacon Grits

Total Time 1 hour 5 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: In the South, everyone loves three things: bacon, cheese and grits! After playing around with this recipe, I took it to my first family party as a newlywed, and it was a huge hit. This recipe has become a family tradition that I'm sure will be passed down for generations. —Melissa Rogers, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 466 calories, 34g fat (18g saturated fat), 143mg cholesterol, 840mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein.
24/42

Jam ‘n’ Cream French Toast

Total Time 15 min
Servings 1 serving
From the Recipe Creator: My grandmother used to make this for me when I was a child. You can use other flavors of jam, too. —B. MacKinnon, Kodak, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 2 slices: 376 calories, 26g fat (15g saturated fat), 275mg cholesterol, 264mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
25/42

Blueberry Baked Oatmeal

Total Time 45 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When my brother, sister and I were young, Mom would bake this cinnamon-scented oatmeal before driving us to school. Whenever I make it, I have lots of happy memories. —Vincent Taylor, Houston, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 483 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 193mg sodium, 78g carbohydrate (49g sugars, 7g fiber), 6g protein.
26/42

Broccoli-Mushroom Bubble Bake

Total Time 45 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I got bored with the same old breakfast casseroles served at our monthly moms' meeting, so I decided to create something new. Judging by the reactions of the other moms, this one's a keeper. —Shannon Koene, Blacksburg, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 233 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 648mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
27/42

Reuben Brunch Bake

Total Time 55 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I created this when I wanted something different for a graduation brunch for two of our sons. When I realized I had most of the ingredients on hand for the Reuben dip I usually make, I decided to use them in a brunch casserole instead! Everyone asked for the recipe. —Janelle Reed, Merriam, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 290 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 232mg cholesterol, 787mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.
28/42

What's in the Fridge Frittata

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Great for a last-minute breakfast, brunch or lunch, this special frittata has a combination of crab and Swiss cheese that my guests rave about. I also like to use sausage and cheddar cheese with asparagus. —Deborah Posey, Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 wedge: 215 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 361mg cholesterol, 265mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
29/42

Pumpkin-Pecan Baked Oatmeal

Total Time 45 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a yummy wintertime treat. My husband rarely eats in the morning, but when I make my baked oatmeal, he digs right in. —Alex Muehl, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup (calculated without additional ingredients): 478 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 335mg sodium, 71g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.
30/42

Chocolate French Toast

Total Time 15 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Try this yummy treat for a special breakfast or brunch. The layer of chocolate hidden inside makes a wonderful flavor combination that appeals to kids of all ages. You might even be tempted to serve this chocolate sandwich for dessert! —Pat Habiger Spearville, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 348 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 534mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
31/42

Italian Sausage Casserole

Total Time 1 hour 15 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: At the start of each week, my family is already looking forward to our traditional weekend breakfasts, when I serve warm and wonderful dishes such as this. The make-ahead convenience lets me relax with the family as the savory aroma fills the house. —Nancy Robinson, Kansas City, Kansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 329 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 195mg cholesterol, 643mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein.
32/42

Southwestern Hash with Eggs

Total Time 1 hour 10 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Before I retired, this all-in-one skillet dish was constantly requested at office brunches. I'd leave out the eggs, double or triple the recipe and wrap servings of the zippy pork mixture in warm corn tortillas. —Barbara Beasley, Beaumont, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 520 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 335mg cholesterol, 1104mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 49g protein.
33/42

Berry Granola Pancakes

Total Time 20 min
Servings 1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: My son and I like to make this breakfast favorite together. You can leave the berries out of the mix and sprinkle them on top, or sub in chocolate chips or nuts instead. —Elizabeth Stewart, Crab Orchard, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 3 pancakes: 321 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 7g fiber), 12g protein.
34/42

Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding

Total Time 1 hour 15 min
Servings 9 servings (1-1/2 cups syrup)
From the Recipe Creator: I had this dish at a bridal brunch many years ago. It was so delicious that I created my own version, and this is the result. Now I make it all the time. Enjoy! —Melissa Millwood, Lyman, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece with 8 teaspoons syrup: 505 calories, 26g fat (10g saturated fat), 155mg cholesterol, 729mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (35g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
35/42

Cheesy Zucchini Quiche

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A few years ago, I found this zucchini quiche recipe that’s quick to prepare and freezes well, too. Just put it in the refrigerator to thaw overnight and pop it into the oven when you wake up! —Karen Howard, Lakeville, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 330 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 562mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
36/42

Cheese Grits & Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Total Time 1 hour 10 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I can't resist this breakfast casserole. It brings all of my favorites into one dish: creamy grits, tangy cheese, rich eggs and flavorful sausage. It's the perfect alternative to traditional breakfast casseroles. —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 496 calories, 35g fat (17g saturated fat), 201mg cholesterol, 1173mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
37/42

Mascarpone-Stuffed French Toast with Berry Topping

Total Time 30 min
Servings 6 servings (4 cups sauce)
From the Recipe Creator: I love making this rich and delicious French toast for my family. With a warm, creamy filling of mascarpone cheese and a sauce of mixed berries, it's a very easy-to-make breakfast treat that looks like you spent all morning preparing it.—Pamela Shank, Parkersburg, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 826 calories, 53g fat (29g saturated fat), 365mg cholesterol, 571mg sodium, 72g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 4g fiber), 18g protein.
38/42

Hearty Slow-Cooker Breakfast Hash

Total Time 5 hours 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This sweet and savory hash certainly won't leave you hungry—the sausage, veggies and eggs will fill you up. The hint of maple syrup makes it all feel extra cozy. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 446 calories, 25g fat (8g saturated fat), 212mg cholesterol, 911mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 5g fiber), 14g protein.
39/42

Savory Sausage French Toast

Total Time 35 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I first made French toast with sausage to use up leftovers. Now I make it because it’s a heavenly way to start the day.—Suzanne Earl, Spring, TX
Nutrition Facts: 1 slice French toast with 2/3 cup gravy: 723 calories, 59g fat (30g saturated fat), 259mg cholesterol, 1171mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
40/42

S’mores Stuffed French Toast

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I had a craving for something sweet one morning, but all I had around the house was a handful of ingredients. I had to get creative, and this was the delicious outcome. Now I make it all the time. —Diana Palmer, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts: 2 slices: 465 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 526mg sodium, 65g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 3g fiber), 13g protein.
41/42

Apple Pancakes

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My family loves these light and fluffy apple cinnamon pancakes. And best of all, they're sweet enough to enjoy even without syrup. —Kim McConnell, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts: 2 pancakes: 241 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 576mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 5g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
42/42

All-in-One Slow-Cooker Breakfast

Total Time 3 hours 20 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Let your slow cooker do the work and don't worry about adding any sides because this dish already has everything—hash browns, sausage, cheese and eggs. Just sip your coffee and cut up some fruit, and breakfast or brunch is served. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 654 calories, 44g fat (19g saturated fat), 276mg cholesterol, 1194mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein.