35 Thanksgiving Brunch Recipe Ideas That Work Whether You’re Hosting or Helping

Hosting or helping, brunch solves the Thanksgiving morning dilemma with these 35 recipe ideas that I rely on year after year. Whether you’re feeding overnight guests or bringing something to share, each dish brings its own charm to the holiday table. From sweet treats to savory classics, there’s something here for every cooking skill level and kitchen setup.

A stack of pumpkin muffins in paper liners is arranged on a light surface, with small decorative pumpkins in the background.
Moist Pumpkin Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a serving of savory bread pudding with bacon and herbs being lifted from a white baking dish.
Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Layers of comfort await in Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole that brings farmhouse tradition to modern tables. People always comment on the hearty portions that keep everyone full through cooking marathons. The golden top gives way to savory goodness underneath. I prep this the night before so Thanksgiving morning starts smoothly.
Get the Recipe: Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

Buttery Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping.
Buttery Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crumb topping cascades over Buttery Coffee Cake like edible autumn leaves on tender cake. Guests gather around with coffee cups while the turkey roasts, creating those quiet moments before the feast begins. The aroma fills kitchens with cinnamon warmth. Someone usually cuts a second piece while “checking on dinner preparations.”
Get the Recipe: Buttery Coffee Cake

Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole

A serving of bread pudding with a creamy sauce and chopped herbs is lifted from a baking dish.
Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Brunch luxury becomes accessible with Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole eliminating the last-minute poaching panic. All those classic flavors layer together in one stunning dish. I’ve watched skeptics become believers after their first forkful. The hollandaise-style sauce brings restaurant quality to home kitchens. Thanksgiving mornings feel special starting with something this indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole

Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes

A stack of pancakes topped with blueberries and syrup sits on a plate, with a jar of syrup in the background.
Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Purple bursts of fruit dot Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes that cook up golden on the griddle. The stack disappears faster than I can flip new ones. I keep batter ready in the fridge for easy morning cooking. Kids line up with plates while adults pretend they’re being polite waiting their turn. These freeze beautifully for busy holiday prep schedules.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes

Biscuits and Gravy

Two biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy and garnished with fresh thyme are served on a beige plate.
Biscuits and Gravy. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Southern comfort arrives via Biscuits and Gravy warming hearts on cool November mornings. The creamy sauce blankets tender biscuits in pure satisfaction. I learned to triple the recipe after running out two years straight. Guests unfamiliar with this classic become instant converts. The aroma alone sets the tone for a cozy holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy

Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

A plate of blueberry muffins with crumb topping, arranged in a pile.
Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Dessert masquerades as breakfast in Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins that vanish from the counter. The cream cheese surprise in the center delights first-time tasters. I bake extra knowing people sneak seconds when they think nobody’s watching. These transport easily in a basket for potluck brunches. November mornings deserve something this special.
Get the Recipe: Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish.
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Layers build flavor in Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole that works for breakfast or dinner. The edges get gorgeously crispy while centers stay creamy. I appreciate how this uses holiday ham in new ways. One dish handles protein and starch without juggling multiple pans. Leftovers reheat beautifully for post-Thanksgiving breakfasts.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Amish Cinnamon Cake

Three pieces of crumbly coffee cake with a cinnamon swirl are stacked on a plate, with two white mugs partially visible around them.
Amish Cinnamon Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple ingredients transform into Amish Cinnamon Cake proving less can definitely be more. The tender crumb practically melts on your tongue. I cut generous squares knowing smaller pieces just mean more trips to the kitchen. Coffee pairs perfectly with this unfussy classic. Thanksgiving doesn’t require complicated when simple tastes this good.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins topped with sliced jalapeños in white paper liners, arranged on a wooden surface.
Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Heat meets sweet in Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins adding unexpected zing to brunch spreads. The golden tops crack perfectly revealing moist interiors. I position these near milder options for those seeking adventure. Honey drizzled on top balances the pepper kick beautifully. These bring Southwest sunshine to autumn tables.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Classic Chicken and Waffles

A stack of waffles and fried chicken pieces with syrup being poured on top, served on a beige plate.
Classic Chicken and Waffles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Two favorites unite in Classic Chicken and Waffles bringing soul food traditions to holiday mornings. The contrast between crispy coating and fluffy waffles creates magic. I set out maple syrup and hot sauce letting everyone customize. Skeptics always request seconds after that first sweet-savory bite. This bridges breakfast and lunch perfectly for late risers.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken and Waffles

Moist Banana Bread

Close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf, showcasing its moist, textured interior with visible banana chunks.
Moist Banana Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Overripe bananas find purpose in Moist Banana Bread that fills kitchens with warmth. The dark golden crust gives way to tender slices inside. I make loaves ahead since they improve with time. Butter melts into warm slices creating simple perfection. This reliable recipe saves many spotted bananas from waste.
Get the Recipe: Moist Banana Bread

Easy Sheet Pan Eggs

A slice of toasted bread with a cooked egg in the center, topped with bacon, green onions, and herbs, held above a tray of similar pieces.
Easy Sheet Pan Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crowd-feeding becomes simple with Easy Sheet Pan Eggs eliminating stovetop scrambling duty. The even cooking means everyone gets their eggs at the same temperature. I love how customizable sections let guests choose their add-ins. Cleanup takes minutes instead of dealing with multiple skillets. Holiday mornings need solutions this practical.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Eggs

Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes

A stack of pancakes with a pat of butter on top is drizzled with syrup on a white plate. A glass of milk and a striped napkin are in the background.
Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wholesome grains appear in Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes adding heartiness to the morning meal. The texture keeps things interesting with little oat pieces throughout. I notice these keep hungry guests fuller longer than regular pancakes. Maple syrup soaks in just right without making them soggy. Traditional meets nutritious in the best way.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Golden shreds of potato bake into Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole that rivals any restaurant version. The top develops that coveted crunchy layer everyone fights over. I assemble this while prepping other dishes, maximizing kitchen time. Cheese pulls create those photo-worthy moments at the table. Simple ingredients combine into pure comfort food magic.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Buttery Blueberry Scones

A close-up of a blueberry scone with a light glaze, resting on brown parchment paper.
Buttery Blueberry Scones. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

British elegance meets American abundance in these Buttery Blueberry Scones dotted with fruit throughout. The tender crumb splits perfectly for spreading jam or honey. Fresh-baked scones make any brunch feel more special instantly. I shape these the night before for quick morning baking. People assume complicated techniques created something this bakery-worthy at home.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Blueberry Scones

Golden Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes with parsley on a wooden cutting board.
Golden Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy cubes of Golden Breakfast Potatoes anchor the savory side of brunch perfectly. The seasoning makes them special enough for holidays while staying familiar. I start these early since everyone wants them piping hot. Fork fights break out over the crispiest pieces. No Thanksgiving brunch feels complete without these golden beauties.
Get the Recipe: Golden Breakfast Potatoes

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Close-up of a muffin with a bite taken out, topped with cream and pumpkin seeds.
Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Coffee shop favorites come home with Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins saving money and time. The cream cheese filling creates sweet surprises in every muffin. I’ve fooled many people who swear these taste exactly like the original. Fall spices perfume the kitchen during baking. These disappear faster than any other muffin variety.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Buttery Cheddar Biscuits

A close-up of several golden-brown biscuits stacked on parchment paper, garnished with a few sprigs of fresh herbs.
Buttery Cheddar Biscuits. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sharp cheese mingles with butter in Buttery Cheddar Biscuits that put regular biscuits to shame. The tops brown beautifully while insides stay fluffy and layered. I make extra knowing they’re perfect for leftover turkey sandwiches. Steam escapes when pulling them apart revealing the flaky layers. These work equally well with sweet or savory toppings.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Cheddar Biscuits

Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

A stack of pumpkin coffee cake squares with crumb topping and white glaze, arranged on a wooden board.
Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Autumn flavors shine in Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake bringing seasonal joy to brunch tables. The spice blend fills homes with that perfect holiday scent. I slice this warm letting the aroma draw people in. Crumb topping provides textural interest against the moist cake. This tastes like Thanksgiving morning in cake form.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Ham Steaks

A cooked pork chop with brown sauce is served on a white plate alongside steamed asparagus spears.
Ham Steaks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Thick slices of Ham Steaks offer protein without complicated prep on busy mornings. The caramelized edges provide flavor that needs no extras. I appreciate how these cook quickly when time runs short. Guests enjoy something substantial without heavy casseroles. These pair wonderfully with every sweet option on the table.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks

Crispy Homemade Waffles

Freshly made waffles on a plate with strawberries.
Crispy Homemade Waffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Belgian-style depth appears in Crispy Homemade Waffles that shame frozen versions completely. The pockets hold syrup and butter perfectly in each square. I keep the waffle iron going as guests request “just one more.” That contrast between crispy outside and fluffy inside creates waffle perfection. Weekend breakfast becomes special occasion worthy.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade Waffles

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs.
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mashed potatoes transform into Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes that feel fancy yet approachable. The crispy coating shatters to reveal creamy centers. I shape these ahead then fry to order for best results. People always ask what makes these different from regular potatoes. These little cylinders pack impressive flavor.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Fluffy German Pancakes

A Dutch baby pancake in a skillet topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and powdered sugar.
Fluffy German Pancakes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Oven magic creates Fluffy German Pancakes that puff dramatically during baking. The edges climb the pan sides while centers stay custardy. I bring the whole skillet to the table for maximum impact. Lemon and powdered sugar traditional toppings never disappoint. This showstopper requires minimal effort for maximum wow factor.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy German Pancakes

Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

Four browned sausage patties garnished with chopped herbs on a plate, with a fork breaking one open to show the inside.
Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Lean protein stars in Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties that nobody guesses aren’t traditional pork. The seasoning blend makes all the difference in flavor. I form these into patties the night before for quick morning cooking. Health-conscious guests appreciate having this option available. These prove lighter doesn’t mean less delicious.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Close-up of a dish of warm cinnamon rolls topped with white glaze.
Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bakery treats simplify into Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole bringing indulgence without individual rolling. The gooey centers merge into pure cinnamon bliss. I drizzle extra icing on top because holidays deserve excess. Someone always scrapes the dish searching for caramelized bits. This feeds crowds with minimal morning effort required.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Hot Breakfast Sandwich

A sesame seed bagel sandwich with cream cheese, smoked salmon, red onion, cucumber, and sprouts on a plate.
Hot Breakfast Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Morning comfort layers into each Hot Breakfast Sandwich that beats any drive-through version. The combination of textures and temperatures hits just right. I set up a station letting everyone build their perfect version. These handheld options work great for eating while cooking. Thanksgiving morning helpers need fuel like this.
Get the Recipe: Hot Breakfast Sandwich

Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes

A stack of four fluffy pancakes topped with fresh raspberries, pear slices, and a drizzle of syrup.
Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Protein-packed Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes surprise people who can’t detect the secret ingredient. The texture stays incredibly light despite the addition. I mention the cottage cheese only after compliments roll in. These keep morning energy steady through cooking marathons. Health meets indulgence in the best possible way.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Close-up of a savory pastry topped with a sunny-side-up egg, sliced ham, yellow bell pepper, and garnished with chopped parsley, served on a sesame seed bun.
Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Italian flair appears in Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel combinations that feel special yet easy. The salty meat complements creamy eggs perfectly. I toast bagels just until golden for ideal texture contrast. These assembled sandwiches travel well for brunch contributions. Sometimes simple ingredients create memorable meals.
Get the Recipe: Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

Two glazed donuts topped with crumbled cereal pieces are placed on a white surface.
Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cereal nostalgia becomes reality with Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts that spark conversations. The crunchy coating over sweet glaze creates textural paradise. I display these on a platter watching them disappear one by one. Kids and adults equally love this playful twist. Familiar flavors in new forms make holidays fun.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

Fluffy Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Fluffy Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Morning simplicity shines through Fluffy Egg Casserole that handles crowds effortlessly. The even cooking eliminates runny or overdone spots completely. I add different toppings to sections accommodating various preferences. This reliable recipe has saved many holiday mornings. Sometimes basic recipes become the most requested dishes.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole

Moist Zucchini Muffins

Close-up of several zucchini muffins on a plate, with one muffin split in half to show its moist, textured interior.
Moist Zucchini Muffins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Garden abundance hides within Moist Zucchini Muffins that nobody believes contain vegetables. The green flecks add color without overwhelming flavor. I bake these when looking for something lighter between rich dishes. Cinnamon and spice make these feel appropriately seasonal. These prove vegetables belong at brunch too.
Get the Recipe: Moist Zucchini Muffins

Hearty Breakfast Bagel Sliders

A sesame seed bagel sits on top of a serving of scrambled eggs with melted cheese on a white plate.
Hearty Breakfast Bagel Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mini sandwiches multiply into Hearty Breakfast Bagel Sliders perfect for feeding many mouths. The smaller size means people sample multiple varieties. I arrange these on platters for easy grabbing. Conversations continue while eating these portable options. Thanksgiving brunch needs options that don’t require sitting down.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Breakfast Bagel Sliders

Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Close-up of cinnamon rolls drizzled with white icing on a plate.
Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Two breakfast favorites merge in Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes creating ultimate morning decadence. The cinnamon swirl appears when flipping reveals the design. I drizzle cream cheese glaze over warm stacks. People debate whether these count as breakfast or dessert. Either way, they disappear from plates quickly.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Homemade Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Homemade Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Portable perfection arrives with Homemade Egg Bites that rival expensive coffee shop versions. The silky texture comes from careful temperature control. I make several varieties since everyone has different preferences. These reheat beautifully for subsequent mornings. Grab-and-go options help busy holiday schedules.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Egg Bites

Moist Pumpkin Muffins

A stack of pumpkin muffins in paper liners is arranged on a light surface, with small decorative pumpkins in the background.
Moist Pumpkin Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Orange-hued beauties bring Moist Pumpkin Muffins full circle to complete this brunch collection perfectly. The warming spices embody everything wonderful about November mornings. I bake batches throughout fall since requests never stop. These muffins capture Thanksgiving flavors in handheld form. Whether hosting the meal or contributing dishes, these reliable recipes ensure brunch success.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Muffins

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