Do you find yourself with leftover bread at the end of the week?
Instead of letting it go to waste, why not turn it into a delicious breakfast?
Leftover bread is surprisingly versatile and can be transformed into hearty, savory, or sweet morning meals with minimal effort.
From French toast casseroles and savory bread puddings to breakfast sandwiches and creative baked dishes, there’s no end to the possibilities.
These recipes help make the most of every slice, embracing flavors from around the world, and often needing only basic pantry ingredients.
Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd for brunch or just need a cozy breakfast, these 25+ recipes will inspire you to get creative with your leftover bread and make the most of every crumb!
25+ Delicious Leftover Bread Recipes Breakfast To Warm Your Soul
Leftover bread can be a breakfast game-changer with just a bit of creativity. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory like an Italian-style strata, a veggie-packed breakfast casserole, or a sweet bread pudding with berries and cinnamon, there’s no shortage of inspiration. These recipes not only help reduce food waste but also offer satisfying and affordable options that can quickly become family favorites. So next time you find yourself with a few slices of leftover bread, don’t toss them—use them to make a delicious breakfast that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Leftover Bread Breakfast Casserole
This hearty breakfast casserole transforms leftover bread into a comforting dish that is perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. With a custardy base filled with eggs, milk, and cheese, combined with your choice of vegetables and proteins, this recipe is highly adaptable and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of leftover bread (white, whole grain, or sourdough), cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.)
- 1 cup cooked sausage or ham (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried herbs until well combined.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture, gently folding to combine and allow the bread to soak for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the diced vegetables and cooked sausage or ham, if using, then mix in half of the shredded cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
This leftover bread breakfast casserole is a fantastic way to start your day, combining the richness of eggs and cheese with the wholesome goodness of vegetables and meat. Perfect for feeding a crowd, it can also be made ahead of time and simply reheated in the morning. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that allows you to use whatever leftover ingredients you have on hand, making it both economical and delicious!
Savory Bread Pudding with Eggs and Spinach
This savory bread pudding is a delightful and nutritious breakfast option that uses up leftover bread while packing in flavor and texture. With a rich custard base and fresh spinach, it’s a wonderful way to elevate your morning routine, turning simple ingredients into a gourmet dish.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups leftover bread, torn into pieces (any kind)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk or cream
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or any leafy green)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the torn bread pieces to the egg mixture, stirring gently to coat. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes to soak.
- Fold in the chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, and half of the crumbled cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
This savory bread pudding is not just a breakfast dish; it can easily transition into brunch or a light lunch as well. It’s a wholesome meal that brings together the comforting texture of bread with the freshness of vegetables and cheese. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making it a satisfying choice for busy mornings or leisurely weekend breakfasts. Enjoying this dish not only helps reduce food waste but also invites creativity into your kitchen!
Cinnamon French Toast Bake
This cinnamon French toast bake is a deliciously sweet way to repurpose leftover bread into a comforting breakfast dish. The combination of eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon creates a custardy base that pairs perfectly with syrup, fruits, or whipped cream.
Ingredients:
- 10 slices of leftover bread (brioche, challah, or any bread), cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup sugar (brown or granulated)
- Maple syrup and fresh fruit for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well blended.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture, gently folding to ensure all pieces are soaked.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
- Let cool slightly before serving with maple syrup and fresh fruit.
This cinnamon French toast bake is a delightful way to start your day on a sweet note. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or when hosting friends and family. The fragrant aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Pair it with fresh fruits and syrup for a complete breakfast experience that feels indulgent yet is easy to make with what you have on hand. Enjoy every bite while reducing waste and savoring the flavors of breakfast!
Leftover Bread Breakfast Skillet
This breakfast skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings leftover bread, eggs, and veggies together in a single pan. It’s a simple, quick, and delicious way to enjoy a hot breakfast, packed with protein and nutrients, and easy to customize based on what’s in your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the cubed bread to the skillet, stirring to combine, and cook until the bread starts to brown slightly.
- Push the bread and veggies to one side of the skillet and crack the eggs directly into the pan, cooking them to your desired doneness.
- Add the cooked sausage or bacon (if using), sprinkle cheese over the top, and let it melt for a couple of minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This breakfast skillet is a wonderful way to make the most of your leftovers, combining savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. It’s ideal for busy mornings or weekend brunches and offers endless customization options with vegetables and proteins. Enjoy this hearty breakfast that brings together textures and flavors, all in one pan!
Leftover Bread and Apple Breakfast Strata
This apple breakfast strata is a sweet twist on a traditional strata, using leftover bread and fresh apples to create a comforting, dessert-like breakfast that’s perfect for fall mornings. With layers of spiced apples and a soft custardy base, this dish is an indulgent way to use up leftover bread and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of leftover bread, cubed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar or syrup for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar, setting aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Layer half of the cubed bread in the baking dish, followed by half of the spiced apples. Repeat with the remaining bread and apples.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and apples, gently pressing down to make sure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Dust with powdered sugar or serve with syrup.
This apple breakfast strata is a perfect blend of warm, comforting flavors, ideal for chilly mornings or a special weekend breakfast. The softness of the bread and custard contrasts with the sweet, spiced apples for a satisfying treat that tastes like dessert for breakfast. Using leftover bread to make this delicious dish is a win-win, letting you enjoy a comforting meal while minimizing waste.
Savory Leftover Bread Omelette Cups
These savory omelette cups are a fun, portable way to enjoy breakfast, combining the best of eggs, cheese, and leftover bread in a bite-sized form. Perfect for on-the-go mornings or meal prep, they’re filled with veggies and can be customized with your favorite fillings, making them a versatile breakfast option that’s both delicious and practical.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cubed bread, diced vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese, stirring to combine.
- Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, topping with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the tops are golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
These savory omelette cups are a fantastic way to use up leftover bread while creating a convenient, protein-packed breakfast. They’re easy to customize with different veggies and cheeses, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences. Perfect for meal prep, these omelette cups can be stored and enjoyed throughout the week, making breakfast both easy and delicious. Enjoy them warm or cold for a quick and satisfying start to your day!
Cheesy Bread and Egg Breakfast Cups
These cheesy bread and egg breakfast cups are a delicious, protein-rich way to start your morning. Using leftover bread, eggs, and cheese, these cups are baked to perfection and ideal for meal prep or a quick breakfast on busy mornings. Each bite is filled with creamy eggs, melty cheese, and a delightful crunch from the toasted bread.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (chives or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
- Distribute the cubed bread evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down slightly.
- Crack an egg into each cup, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired.
- Top each cup with a generous sprinkle of cheese.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain soft.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
These cheesy bread and egg breakfast cups are the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience. Not only do they make the most of leftover bread, but they also bring a delicious combination of creamy eggs and gooey cheese in each bite. These portable breakfast cups are great for mornings when you need something quick yet filling and can even be stored in the fridge for later.
Bread Pudding Pancakes
Bread pudding pancakes are a unique twist on traditional pancakes, combining leftover bread with a pancake-like batter for a breakfast that’s soft, slightly crispy, and full of warm flavors. Ideal for weekend brunches or a cozy breakfast, these pancakes offer a delightful texture and are best served with syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed leftover bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter or oil for frying
- Maple syrup and fresh fruit for serving
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Add the bread cubes to the mixture, stirring to coat. Allow the bread to soak for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Scoop out portions of the bread mixture (about ¼ cup per pancake) and cook in the skillet, pressing down lightly to form a pancake shape.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar.
Bread pudding pancakes are a comforting and creative way to use up leftover bread, offering the cozy flavors of bread pudding in a pancake form. They’re perfect for indulging in a weekend breakfast or brunch with friends and family. The unique texture and flavor of these pancakes make them a standout dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Leftover Bread Breakfast Frittata
This leftover bread breakfast frittata is a versatile dish that combines eggs, cheese, vegetables, and cubed bread in a baked form that’s similar to a quiche without the crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch, this frittata is filling, nutritious, and makes great use of bread that might otherwise go to waste.
Ingredients:
- 5 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (basil or Italian seasoning)
- Fresh arugula or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a pie dish or oven-safe skillet.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried herbs until smooth.
- Add the cubed bread, diced vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese to the egg mixture, gently stirring to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the frittata is golden and set in the center.
- Garnish with fresh arugula or parsley and serve warm.
This leftover bread breakfast frittata is a flexible and nutritious meal that’s ideal for using up extra bread while providing a protein-packed breakfast. The combination of eggs, cheese, and vegetables makes it wholesome and satisfying, while the bread adds a unique texture that sets it apart from regular frittatas. Perfect for any meal of the day, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy a delicious and waste-free breakfast.
Leftover Bread Breakfast Hash
This breakfast hash brings together leftover bread, potatoes, and savory vegetables in a skillet for a hearty and flavorful morning meal. With a mix of textures from crispy bread cubes to soft potatoes, it’s a satisfying breakfast that can be customized with any veggies or protein you have on hand. It’s perfect for using up pantry staples and any bread you might need to finish.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potato and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.
- Stir in the bread cubes and cooked sausage or bacon if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until the bread is crispy and golden brown, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
This breakfast hash is a fantastic way to turn leftover bread into a filling and flavorful breakfast, bringing together fresh and pantry ingredients for a well-rounded meal. With customizable ingredients, you can adjust it to your preferences, making it a versatile and waste-free dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Leftover Bread Chocolate Banana French Toast Bake
This chocolate banana French toast bake combines the richness of chocolate, the sweetness of ripe bananas, and leftover bread for a decadent breakfast treat. With a custardy center and slightly crispy top, this dish is ideal for weekends or special occasions and can be made ahead for an easy morning treat.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and brown sugar.
- Add the bread cubes, banana slices, and chocolate chips to the mixture, gently stirring to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down to ensure everything is well coated.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set in the center.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
This chocolate banana French toast bake is a delightful way to repurpose leftover bread into a decadent breakfast or brunch option. The combination of chocolate and banana adds a rich sweetness, making each bite indulgent. It’s the perfect dish for a special morning, with minimal prep time and maximum flavor!
Leftover Bread Savory Breakfast Muffins
These savory breakfast muffins use leftover bread as a base, combined with eggs, cheese, and herbs for a portable and tasty breakfast option. Great for meal prep or a grab-and-go morning meal, these muffins are filling and can be customized with your favorite veggies or meats, making them a flexible and flavorful start to the day.
Ingredients:
- 5 slices leftover bread, cubed
- 5 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- ½ cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, or onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the bread cubes, shredded cheese, and diced vegetables to the egg mixture, stirring to combine.
- Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and set in the center.
- Let cool slightly before removing from the tin and garnish with fresh parsley.
These savory breakfast muffins are an ideal solution for using up leftover bread while providing a convenient and nutritious breakfast. With eggs, cheese, and vegetables in each bite, they’re a balanced and tasty option that’s perfect for busy mornings. Enjoy them fresh or make a batch to reheat throughout the week for easy, satisfying breakfasts.
Savory Bread Pudding with Spinach and Feta
This savory bread pudding brings a Mediterranean twist to breakfast, combining leftover bread with spinach, feta cheese, and a rich egg mixture for a satisfying, creamy dish. Perfect for brunch or a special breakfast, this dish is baked to golden perfection, with a custardy center and slightly crisp edges.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cubed leftover bread
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Add the bread cubes, spinach, and feta to the egg mixture, stirring to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down gently to ensure the bread is coated.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
This savory bread pudding is a wonderful way to turn leftover bread into a breakfast or brunch that feels special and nourishing. With the combination of feta, spinach, and eggs, it brings a deliciously Mediterranean-inspired flavor that’s both satisfying and versatile. Enjoy warm for a cozy, flavor-packed morning meal.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Bread Breakfast Bake
This peanut butter and jelly bread bake is a nostalgic twist on classic PB&J flavors, combining leftover bread with a creamy peanut butter mixture and fruity jelly for a comforting breakfast. It’s an easy, make-ahead dish that’s baked to perfection, creating a sweet and nutty breakfast treat perfect for all ages.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cubed leftover bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup peanut butter, melted
- ¼ cup jelly or jam (any flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Fresh berries or powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and sugar until smooth.
- Add the cubed bread and melted peanut butter to the bowl, stirring to coat the bread evenly.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish and add dollops of jelly or jam throughout, pressing gently into the bread.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bake is golden and set.
- Garnish with fresh berries or powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm.
This peanut butter and jelly bread bake takes classic PB&J flavors and turns them into a cozy, baked breakfast. The creamy peanut butter, fruity jelly, and soft bread create a comforting dish that’s perfect for weekend mornings or anytime you want to make something nostalgic and sweet. It’s a family favorite that’s as easy as it is delightful!
Italian-Style Strata with Tomatoes and Mozzarella
This Italian-style strata combines the classic flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with leftover bread for a savory breakfast bake that’s perfect for any morning. Strata is similar to a casserole, with a custard-like base made from eggs and milk that soaks into the bread, making it both rich and filling. This dish is easy to prepare ahead, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings or brunch.
Ingredients:
- 5 cups cubed leftover bread
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bread cubes, tomatoes, and mozzarella to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, pressing down lightly to coat all the bread.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the strata is golden and the eggs are set.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This Italian-style strata is a delicious way to use up leftover bread, bringing a medley of flavors from tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil into a baked breakfast that’s hearty and satisfying. Perfect for brunch or special mornings, this dish makes the most of pantry ingredients, offering a flavorful and easy-to-make breakfast that everyone will love.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!