While we’re all for eating healthy, we have to admit that good-for-you breakfast dishes can be lackluster. Sometimes plain toast and a bowl of Cheerios just doesn’t cut it — and that’s okay. After all, life is about balance, and there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself every now and then (right?!). Whether you woke up craving an indulgent breakfast or are trying to recover from a night of partying, we’ve got you covered.
These 11 hearty and decadent breakfast dishes — packed with proteins, carbs, and all the flavors — are sure to bring you back to life and satisfy all your indulgent cravings.
1. Chicken Fried Steak
Snagging our number one spot for the most indulgent breakfast is this Southern classic — and for good reason. Featuring tenderized steak that’s breaded, fried, and served with a creamy gravy, CFS is as filling as it is comforting. Want to make it more of a brunch or lunch meal? Pair it with all your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, creamed corn, mac and cheese, or green beans. Just be ready for a long nap after this one.
Recipe: All Recipes
2. Eggs Benedict
Taking the win for most luxurious brunch or breakfast item, eggs Benedict is another classic. Made with poached eggs and ham or Canadian bacon atop an English muffin, it’s then crowned with a rich, buttery hollandaise sauce that complements the runny eggs perfectly. Elevate it further by adding spinach or smoked salmon for an extra dose of nutrients.
Recipe: Tastes Better from Scratch
3. Biscuits and Gravy
This Southern staple is another poster child for indulgent breakfasts. Featuring soft, flaky biscuits drenched in a creamy gravy, it can be paired with proteins like sausage or fried chicken. The perfect pick-me-up for chilly mornings or when you’re in need of some serious comfort food, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Add a side of scrambled eggs or hash browns to turn it into a full-on feast.
Recipe: Natasha’s Kitchen
4. Full English Breakfast
A powerhouse of a meal, this beloved British classic promises all the protein and flavor. It typically includes eggs, sausage, bacon, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, black pudding, mushrooms, and toast or fried bread. The hefty dish covers all the bases for protein, veggies, and carbs — making it the ideal breakfast for those sluggish days when you need extra fuel or a little help bouncing back from a night of drinking.
Recipe: Culinary Ginger
Related: Old-School German Recipes That Are the Ultimate Comfort Food
5. Croque Monsieur
Croque Monsieur, France’s version of a grilled cheese, is a must-try. Made with layers of ham and melting Gruyere cheese between slices of brioche or white bread, it’s topped off with a creamy bechamel sauce and then grilled to perfection. The result is a crunchy, gooey, and utterly satisfying sandwich. Enjoy it with a green salad or a side of pommes frites for a truly indulgent Parisian cafe experience.
Recipe: Food and Wine
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6. Huevos Rancheros
This vibrant and flavorful Mexican dish consists of fried eggs served over corn tortillas and smothered in a zesty tomato salsa. Perfect for those who love to start their mornings with a punch of flavor, huevos rancheros can also be easily customized to fit different taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Serve it with refried beans, fried cheese, or sliced avocado for an extra dose of nutrients and fat.
Recipe: The Pioneer Woman
Related: 11 Cheap and Healthy Breakfast Combinations
7. Belgian Waffles
For those who prefer to start their day on a sweet note, Belgian waffles topped with strawberries and whipped cream is another decadent dream come true. The waffles, which should be thick and fluffy, serve as the perfect canvas for tart strawberries (or blueberries) and a generous dollop of whipped cream. This rich, dessert-like breakfast is ideal for special occasions and is sure to be a hit with the little ones.
Recipe: The Salty Marshmallow
Related: 20 Low-Cost Desserts That Are Easy As Pie
8. Shakshuka
Originating from North Africa and the Middle East, shakshuka is a rich and comforting dish that does not skimp on flavor. Featuring poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, it’s enhanced with bold, zesty flavors and topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. A great option for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch, shakshuka is also super easy to make. Serve it with a slice of bread or pita to mop up all the sauce.
Recipe: Love and Lemons
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9. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel
For a touch of luxury in the morning, give this bagel a try. This New York-style breakfast consists of a toasted bagel (my real ones know everything bagels are the way to go) layered with cream cheese and topped with slices of smoked salmon, capers, and red onion. Perfect for those mornings when you’re craving something filling yet sophisticated, this loaded bagel is both indulgent and refreshing.
Recipe: Feel Good Foodie
10. Bananas Foster French Toast
For those with a sweet tooth, this elevated version of a French toast offers a decadent and luxurious twist on the breakfast classic. Made with thick slices of French toast topped with a rich, caramelized banana and rum sauce, this sweet dish is perfect for celebrating special occasions (think breakfast in bed) or for when you’re in the mood to indulge. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or chopped nuts for some texture.
Recipe: Fifteen Spatulas
11. Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich
A quintessential American breakfast sandwich, the BEC is what New York City runs on (trust me, I’m from Queens). The classic combination features thick slabs of bacon, a fried egg, and melted cheese sandwiched between two slices of toasted bread, a bagel, or an English muffin. It’s the ideal grab-and-go breakfast for busy mornings or a reliable cure for a hangover. Add avocado or spinach to make it a bit healthier.
Recipe: Sip and Feast
