35 Thanksgiving Brunch Ideas for a Relaxed Start to a Busy Day

Gathering any of these 35 ways to plan Thanksgiving brunch helps everyone enjoy the day right from the start. Early hours sometimes get busy with travel, prepping, and catching up. Simple brunch recipes let you focus on sharing food and conversation instead of stressing over the details.

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.

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.

Hosting a crowd for brunch gets simpler when every serving is hot and ready at the same time. Guests marvel at this Easy Sheet Pan Eggs for both speed and reliability. I lean on this recipe during busy holiday mornings since the cleanup is a breeze. Versatile toppings make each square a custom creation for hungry guests.
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.

A stack of pancakes made with oats and buttermilk fills the house with warmth as soon as they hit the griddle. Families enjoy this Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes for the gentle flavor and hearty texture. I whip up a big batch so late sleepers don’t miss out. Wholesome ingredients make breakfast feel like the best part of the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes

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 classics get even better when they’re easier to serve and share with a crowd. Forks race for this Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole the instant it’s plated, promising every creamy, tangy bite. I often prepare it ahead for stress-free mornings. The rich hollandaise flavor brings smiles even before the first slice is gone.
Get the Recipe: Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole

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 pancakes that remain light and tender always surprise people at brunch gatherings. Digging into this Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes gives a hint of indulgence without feeling heavy. I serve them with maple syrup and fresh fruit when company comes over. The texture and flavor brighten up any chilly morning.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes

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.

Generous layers of eggs, potatoes, and sausage guarantee full stomachs as the festivities begin. Passing out squares of this Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole always sparks requests for second helpings. I’ve found it perfect for slow mornings when everyone drifts into the kitchen hungry.
Get the Recipe: Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

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.

Warm, sweet aromas fill the room while donuts cool and wait to be glazed. Everyone buzzes with excitement for this Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts, which combine breakfast cereal fun with baked goods. I make extra for sharing or packing up as gifts. Each bite provides a touch of nostalgia that sweetens the whole table.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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

Crispy on top and creamy beneath, this casserole disappears faster than you expect. Friends and relatives flock to the pan for this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole during holiday brunch. I never worry about leftovers with a side this popular. The cheesy layers pair well with any main course, saving you time and effort.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Pumpkin Banana Bread

Close-up of several slices of banana bread on parchment paper, showing a moist, textured interior and golden-brown crust. — Pumpkin Banana Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Holidays seem cozier with warm slices of bread full of fall flavors. Filling the kitchen with this Pumpkin Banana Bread puts everyone in a seasonal mood right away. I slice up extra for snacking between meals and packing in lunchboxes. Comforting aromas make this treat a must for Thanksgiving brunches.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Banana Bread

Golden Breakfast Potatoes

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

Crispy potatoes with tender centers set the tone for a holiday morning feast. Passing around this Golden Breakfast Potatoes gets people talking about their favorite breakfast extras. I love serving these alongside casseroles and egg dishes. Their earthy flavor and warm spices bring out the best of fall.
Get the Recipe: Golden Breakfast Potatoes

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.

Muffins that balance wholesome veggies and subtle sweetness always earn rave reviews. Offering this Moist Zucchini Muffins at brunch ensures empty plates and lots of satisfied guests. Each bite brings out the comforting flavors of autumn. I often double the recipe since everyone asks for a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Moist Zucchini 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 of tender potatoes and smoky ham make breakfast feel extra homey and generous. Requesting seconds of this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole becomes a tradition at any gathering. I enjoy watching guests gather around, drawn by the aroma. A big pan guarantees no one leaves the table hungry.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

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.

Fluffy biscuits with savory gravy bring classic southern comfort to your celebration. The table grows quiet as guests dig into this Biscuits and Gravy, enjoying the simple flavors. I use this dish for relaxed mornings when you need a hearty meal. Heaping portions promise smiles long after breakfast finishes.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy

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.

Bite-sized croquettes boasting golden shells and creamy centers steal the spotlight on busy mornings. Plating up this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes sparks curiosity at large gatherings. I notice guests trying to guess what’s inside with every bite. The crunchy exterior and fluffy potato inside guarantee requests for more.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

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.

If you want something savory but lighter than usual, homemade sausage patties set the tone for an energetic day. This Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties presents a flavorful option that works for everyone. I plate them alongside scrambled eggs or breakfast casseroles. High protein keeps bellies full until dinner arrives.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

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.

Sweet meets savory when crispy chicken lands atop warm waffles, topped with maple syrup. Introducing this Classic Chicken and Waffles to your brunch invites cheers and big smiles. I use it for festive mornings when tradition meets a little twist. Serving it offers flavor and comfort in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken and Waffles

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.

Muffins with creamy centers and pumpkin spice intrigue every guest who stops by during the holidays. Slicing into this Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins makes the kitchen smell like a bakery. I hand them out as treats for busy mornings. This recipe turns breakfast into a seasonal celebration.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Crispy Homemade Waffles

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

Waffles stay crispy on the outside and tender inside, which everyone appreciates. People always ask for repeat servings of this Crispy Homemade Waffles at gatherings and lazy brunches. I keep extra toppings on hand for waffle sandwiches or sweet indulgences. The aroma alone turns heads as soon as they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade Waffles

Homemade Egg Bites

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

Small, portable bites packed with protein help fuel busy holiday mornings with minimal fuss. Popping out this Homemade Egg Bites means fewer dishes and more smiling faces. I mix and match fillings, letting guests build their ideal plate. Their convenience keeps brunch moving smoothly, even with a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Egg Bites

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.

Tender scones bursting with berries encourage lingering conversation over coffee and tea. Presenting this Buttery Blueberry Scones makes mornings feel luxurious without extra work. I bake a double batch to keep crumbs on the counter for hours. The sweet and fruity blend pairs beautifully with every brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Blueberry Scones

Crispy Sourdough Waffles

Two stacked waffles with a bite taken out, topped with banana slices, blueberries, and a pat of butter. — Crispy Sourdough Waffles. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Tangy sourdough in each bite sets these waffles apart, adding unexpected depth for morning palates. This Crispy Sourdough Waffles always surprises guests with its homemade flavor and crunchy texture. I serve them with whipped butter or jam for a fall treat. The combination of sour and sweet is pure comfort.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sourdough Waffles

Hearty Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of a baked breakfast casserole dish containing vegetables, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust and garnished with a parsley leaf. — Hearty Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Egg casseroles brimming with sausage, cheese, and potatoes guarantee no one leaves hungry. This Hearty Breakfast Casserole anchors brunch tables during the busiest holiday mornings. I prepare it ahead, so I can relax while guests help themselves. Layers of flavor keep people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Breakfast Casserole

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.

Comfort comes in crumbly, cheesy packages when fluffy biscuits emerge fresh from the oven. Handing off this Buttery Cheddar Biscuits to guests fills the room with happy chatter. I tuck extras into baskets for second helpings later. Their rich flavor pairs with almost every breakfast dish on the table.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Cheddar Biscuits

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.

Cinnamon rolls baked together become a sticky, gooey centerpiece for brunch celebrations. Anyone who tries this Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole dives in for seconds before the coffee is poured. I find it especially welcome during chilly fall mornings. Layers of swirled sweetness offer a cozy start to any holiday.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Fluffy Egg Casserole

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

Lazy mornings call for casseroles loaded with eggs and all the right breakfast add-ins. Spooning out this Fluffy Egg Casserole tells guests the celebration is about to begin. I love watching the golden, puffed top rise in the oven. Every plate is filled with warmth and possibility.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg 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.

Slices of cinnamon-spiced cake bridge breakfast and dessert, making gatherings more memorable. This Amish Cinnamon Cake puts smiles on faces as soon as the aroma drifts out of the oven. I often stash away a few pieces for afternoon snacks. Its nostalgic flavor brings back fond memories and starts new ones.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

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.

Crispy bagels with salty prosciutto and fluffy eggs offer a savory twist for special brunches. Guests cheer for this Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel the second the platter hits the table. I recommend pairing it with fresh fruit for balance. For those who love bold flavors, this breakfast hits all the marks.
Get the Recipe: Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel

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.

Simple, hearty steaks make breakfast quick while delivering big flavor suited to any holiday morning. Neighbors comment on the aroma when this Ham Steaks is sizzling on the skillet. I slice them for sandwiches or serve whole. The tender meat pairs perfectly with eggs and potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks

Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes

A stack of pumpkin pancakes topped with walnuts and drizzled with syrup. — Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Flipping pancakes fills the kitchen with cozy, autumnal scents. Offering this Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes at brunch means fall flavors are front and center. I drizzle maple syrup over each stack for a festive feel. Extra pancakes disappear before anyone can consider leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes

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.

Sweet honey and spicy jalapeño create muffins that go fast at holiday brunches. I present this Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins when I want bold flavors and something different at the table. Warmed in the oven, the scent pulls everyone closer. Savory-sweet combinations stand out among familiar favorites.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread 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 bagel sandwiches bundled with eggs and savory fillings make block parties and brunches more fun. Stackable and easy to grab, this Hearty Breakfast Bagel Sliders pleases guests of all ages. I find they’re perfect for brunch spreads where variety is key. Each bite packs comfort and flavor together.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Breakfast Bagel Sliders

Sourdough Pop Tarts

A stack of three rectangular pastries filled with red jam and drizzled with white icing, displayed on brown parchment paper. — Sourdough Pop Tarts. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tangy pastry crust and fruity filling make for an unexpected addition to the holiday breakfast. Friends swap stories while reaching for this Sourdough Pop Tarts over hot drinks. I bake extra batches for busy mornings or dessert later. With each bite, the flavor lingers and leaves people asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Pop Tarts

Buttermilk Biscuits

Three golden-brown biscuits are stacked, with the top one missing a bite. A small sprig of greenery with red berries is visible in the corner. — Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Reliable biscuits come out feather-light, making any brunch spread feel complete. Serving this Buttermilk Biscuits brings grateful murmurings around the table. I like to offer warm biscuits with both sweet and savory options. Every crumb is full of comfort and tradition.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

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.

Muffins bursting with autumn flavors disappear as soon as they cool. Passing around this Moist Pumpkin Muffins during brunch means fall has truly arrived. I set out extra because everyone requests seconds. The spiced aroma brings a festive vibe to every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Muffins

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.

Few things comfort like thick slices of warm bread, especially when the holidays roll around. This Moist Banana Bread stays tender for days, a win for breakfast and brunch. I keep a loaf handy for snacking between meals. Classic flavors stand up to any spread, even on Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Moist Banana Bread

Hot Breakfast Sandwich

Portable sandwiches loaded with eggs, cheese, and sausage fuel busy mornings in a pinch. Friends race to grab this Hot Breakfast Sandwich from brunch platters, happy for a hand-held option. I whip them up for post-parade snacks or game day breakfasts. Hearty fillings keep hunger at bay well into the afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Hot Breakfast Sandwich