
The Best Things to Eat for Breakfast
It’s time to talk about breakfast.
Whether you’re a morning person or not, there's one thing we can all agree on – breakfast matters. It sets you up for the day, kicks off your metabolism, and it’s basically one of life’s simplest pleasures.
So, what should you actually be eating in the morning? Obviously there’s no one-size-fits-all answer because everybody is different. We’ve put together a list of the best things to eat for breakfast depending on your mood, energy level, and how much time you’ve got. Whether you're rushing out the door in the morning or settling in for a slow start to the day, there's something here for everyone.
1. The Classic Full English
Kicking things off with the obvious: nothing says breakfast quite like a classic full English.
Bacon, sausages, eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, black pudding (if you’re into that), and a couple of slices of toast to finish it off. Maybe even throw in a few hash browns if you're feeling indulgent. It's the king of breakfasts, the kind that is bound to keep you feeling full until dinner and maybe even beyond.
Sure, we wouldn’t recommend that you eat one every day, but as a weekend treat? Absolute perfection.
2. Porridge – but make it interesting
Porridge has really come to the forefront in recent years. It’s no longer just a sad, beige breakfast it once was – it's a canvas for endless creativity.
Oats are a great option because they’re cheap, filling, and full of good stuff like fibre and slow-release energy. But the real trick is what you add on top. And porridge toppings can be customised to individual preference.
Try adding these if you’re looking for some inspiration:
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A dollop of Greek yoghurt
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Fresh berries or sliced banana
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A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
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A sprinkle of cinnamon
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A few seeds or chopped nuts for crunch
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Grated or melted chocolate (if you’re hoping to indulge)
If you want to be super organised, you can even make overnight oats the day before then they’re ready to grab-and-go in the morning. Perfect if you find yourself being short on time in the mornings or prefer to eat during your commute.
3. Avocado toast
Yes, we know, it’s become a bit of a cliché in recent years. But if you still haven’t tried it, avocado on toast is actually both delicious and nutritious.
It’s quick, tasty, and if you do it right, it’s packed with healthy fats and vitamins. Smash up a ripe avocado, pop it on toast (sourdough is a winner), sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, chilli flakes, maybe a little squeeze of lime. Job done.
You can even upgrade avocado toast with additions like:
- A poached egg
- Smoked salmon
- Feta cheese
- Cherry tomatoes
- Crispy bacon
It’s the sort of breakfast that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together – even if you don’t.
4. The humble bacon butty
Sometimes, you just want something simple, salty, and satisfying that hits the spot – that’s where the bacon sandwich comes in. White bread, a decent layer of butter, plenty of crispy bacon, finished off with some ketchup or brown sauce. It’s British comfort food at its best.
We think this one is best served on a lazy Sunday morning with a big mug of tea or coffee, a slightly sore head, and no responsibilities for at least three hours.
5. Eggs – endless options
Eggs are quite possibly the most versatile breakfast item. Boiled, scrambled, poached, fried – you name it. They’re quick, simple and they’re packed with protein, and they go with just about anything, or even work just on their own, if you’re a true fan.
A few simple ideas:
- Boiled with soldiers – childhood nostalgia
- Scrambled on toast – quick, simple and filling
- Poached over smashed avocado – Instagram worthy
- An omelette with whatever you can find in the fridge – cheese, ham, mushrooms, spinach – go wild
If you want something that makes your morning eggs feel posh, try shakshuka – eggs baked in a spiced tomato sauce. Easier than you might think, tastes delicious and makes you look like a breakfast genius.
6. Smoothies
Not everyone’s into heavy food in the morning, and that’s fair enough. If you’re the type who’d rather drink your breakfast, smoothies are a great option. The choice of what you can include in it are pretty much limitless too.
They’re quick, refreshing, and you can sneak in loads of fruit (and even veg) without really tasting it. Throw it all in a blender and off you go.
Try this combo if you’re new to smoothies:
- Banana
- A handful of frozen berries
- A spoonful of peanut butter
- Oats
- A dash of milk or a dairy-free alternative
Blitz it all together and voila – breakfast in a glass.
7. Toast, but better
Toast, a staple. Plus, it doesn't have to be boring every day. Yes, you could do plain butter or add some jam, but there’s so much more potential.
Try:
- Peanut butter & banana
- Cream cheese & smoked salmon
- Hummus & avocado
- Ricotta & honey
- Marmite (if you're brave)
8. Pastries
Croissants, pain au chocolate, Danish pastries… now we’re not saying they’re healthy food, but they are delicious. And it’s okay to treat yourself sometimes. Pair them with a perfect cup of proper coffee and a bit of peace and quiet.
Save them to indulge on those slow mornings, special occasions, or whenever you want to spoil yourself.
9. Leftovers
Here’s a curveball: breakfast doesn’t have to be breakfast food.
If you’ve got some leftovers from the day before and you fancy having them again for brekkie then go for it. It’s easy and cuts down on food waste, win-win.
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, breakfast should be something you enjoy that gets you ready for the day. Whether it's a full fry-up, a trendy smoothie bowl, or just a humble cup of tea and a couple of digestives, it’s your morning – do what works for you and matches your lifestyle.
If you’ve got the time, the ingredients, and a bit of love for good food, try mixing it up every now and again. You might just find your new favourite breakfast staple.

Gemma Henry - Content Lead
Gemma finds sleep fascinating and describes the discovery aspect of her role as eye-opening. Her keen eye for detail and dedication to thorough research ensures that Bensons customers get the informative sleep-based advice they're looking for.