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It’s always interesting when I learn something new about myself, and I find as I get older, the more I learn. In my 20’s, I hated eating the same thing over and over. I could not and would not eat the same thing more than a few times a year. I mean, some things, sure, hamburgers, sandwiches, traditional foods like that. But, following a recipe? Nope, I could not repeat recipes. I would get so bored and then we’d go out to eat. Well, let me tell you, in your 20’s, that’s not a lifestyle we could afford.
Now that we can afford to go out to eat more, I don’t care to go as much. Partially, I hate spending the money, but, second, I can’t track my macros. And it annoys me. Because I need to have a ballpark of how much I eat in a day, and tracking is a tedious chore (like laundry, it needs to be done), I have done a complete 180 on my food choices.
Give me repetitive! I can track things once and then it’s in the system and easy to track, especially breakfast. I eat the same thing. Every. Single. Day. Two egg whites, one full egg, and 129 grams of oatmeal. Probably six days a week.
With that being said, I hit days where I think, god help me and those around me, if I have to eat one more egg. And it’s taken me awhile to find other breakfast ideas that do not include eggs but still give me a good dose of protein and can fill me up. Because I’ve done the research, and tried the options, here are a few go to breakfast ideas that DO NOT include eggs – because even I can’t do it 365 days a year!
High Protein Breakfast Ideas
Kodiak Cakes
As I mentioned in THIS POST, Kodiak cakes are amazing! I love them because they’re the one protein pancake mix that tastes closest to pancakes. There’s already a whopping 14 grams of protein in ½ cup of dry mix. THEN, if you add in an egg white, you add an additional 3.6 grams of protein. If you need even more, swap the water for Fairlife milk for another protein boost of 6.5 grams (here’s a post on Fairlife milk, what it is and some pros/cons). I find one serving of Kodiak Cakes to be incredibly filing and often satisfies my sweet tooth.
Acai Bowls
Okay, I’m a bit behind the times here. I had NO idea what these things were until recently. My handy dandy Costco magazine did a write up on Acai bowls as they now carry them in their food court. BUT, they also carry the frozen Acai juice packs in their freezer section. So, I take these beautiful things out, toss them in my blender with some plain Greek Yogurt and add my fruit on top and a bit of granola and some chia seeds to help with the protein.
Protein Shakes
I buy pre mixed protein shakes and these are the one I love – Premier Nutrition High Protein Shake, Chocolate, 18 Count -(11 fl.oz each). And some days, this is all I will have for breakfast. Whether it’s because I am in a hurry or just not in the mood to eat, protein shakes are always in my fridge. Now, if you have the time, making your own protein shake gives you so much more flexibility in flavors and options. It’s easy to toss in some yogurt, fruit, chia seeds, protein powder and call it a day. If you like, throw in some peanut butter – with the right combination of ingredients (any berries can work well with peanut butter), it’s a healthy indulgence.
Avocado toast
Seriously, best thing ever. I LOVE avocado toast. I use Dave’s killer bread for the needed protein, and slather it with avocado, salt, pepper, and some red pepper flakes for a kick. This is a lower protein option, but it works. I will add a poached egg if I’m in the mood or even some scrambled egg whites.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a staple in my house. We always have it on hand. I keep Fage 0% Greek yogurt from Costco on hand at all times because I can add whatever I want to it – various fruit, jam, honey, granola, etc. When I’m in a hurry and need to grab and go, my favorite yogurt is Siggi’s, and I’m so happy our Costco carries it now!
Cereal
Seriously. I still love a good bowl of cereal. Kashi makes some high protein cereal options (Kashi GOLEAN, Breakfast Cereal, Honey Almond Flax Crunch, Non-GMO Project Verified, 14 oz(Pack of 4)) and I add Fairlife milk for the needed protein and I’m good to go for my morning. Cereal doesn’t hold me over as long though, so I have this only when I know I can eat again in a couple of hours.
Overnight Oats
Another beautiful creation that took way too long for me to get on board. I have so many mason jars from when we make applesauce or jelly. I toss in equal parts oats, milk (Fairlife or almond), and Greek Yogurt. From there – your options are endless! I add maple syrup, honey, or stevia drops for sweetness, and in the morning drop in some fresh fruit.
Again, I tend to stick with eggs and oatmeal, but there are those days that I’d rather starve than eat an egg. On those days, I have plenty of options at my disposal, but it has taken awhile to get to that point and branch out from what has worked. I have a bad habit of swinging from one extreme to another, and learning to find a spot in the middle has been a long life lesson, one I’m still learning.
I’m with you–it’s hard to eat the same thing over and over again and yet, I agree–I want to know how many calories I’m eating. It’s easy to pack in more than you want. Love your ideas–will definitely check out acai bowls (never heard of them) and I do love overnight oatmeal! I haven’t made that since my kids left home (shame!). I usually have a protein shake and I try and throw in different kinds of fruit. Thanks for the additional suggestions!