Feast Before the Feast: 65 Thanksgiving Brunch Ideas to Kick Off the Holiday Right

A leisurely brunch is the perfect way to usher in Thanksgiving before the big feast later in the day. The dishes below mix classic harvest flavors with easy techniques so you can spend more time with family and less time tied to the stove. Pick a few favorites or go all-out with a sprawling buffet—the choices are as flexible as your morning schedule.

1. Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bake

Thick bread cubes soak overnight in a custard flavored with pumpkin purée, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In the morning the casserole bakes into crispy-topped, custardy perfection, freeing you from stovetop flipping. Serve with warm maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for a crowd-pleasing start.

2. Cranberry-Orange Scones

Bright orange zest and tart cranberries cut through buttery dough for a balance of sweet and tangy. The key is keeping the butter cold so the scones rise flaky and tender. Brush the tops with cream and a little coarse sugar before baking for a crisp crust.

3. Turkey, Spinach & Gruyère Quiche

Leftover roasted turkey gains new life in this custardy quiche. Gruyère melts into silky pockets while fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Pair slices with mixed greens to round out the plate.

4. Sweet Potato Hash with Chorizo

Sweet potatoes roast until caramelized, then mingle with spicy chorizo for a smoky kick. Crack eggs on top and bake a few minutes more so the yolks stay runny. Each bite balances sweet, savory, and a hint of heat.

5. Apple Cider Doughnut Muffins

These muffins borrow their flavor from reduced apple cider and a dunk in cinnamon sugar. Baking instead of frying saves cleanup without sacrificing that classic doughnut taste. They travel well, making them ideal for potluck-style brunches.

6. Butternut Squash & Goat Cheese Frittata

Roasted butternut cubes lend natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with tangy goat cheese. The frittata sets in the oven, so there’s no need for stovetop flipping. Serve warm or at room temperature; it’s equally delicious either way.

7. Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists

Twisting the bacon helps it cook evenly while creating pockets for the maple glaze to cling. A sprinkle of cracked pepper adds gentle heat. These strips disappear fast, so make more than you think you’ll need.

8. Pecan Pie Overnight Oats

Rolled oats soak in milk, vanilla, and a touch of brown sugar while you sleep. In the morning stir in toasted pecans and a splash of maple syrup for pie-like flavor without the pastry work. The jars keep up to four days, perfect for meal prep.

9. Sage Sausage Breakfast Sliders

Sage-laced sausage brings classic Thanksgiving aromatics to a handheld bite. Assemble sliders in a baking dish, cover with foil, and keep warm in a low oven until guests arrive. They’re easy to grab between sips of coffee or mulled cider.

10. Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Store-bought cinnamon rolls are cut into chunks, doused with a simple egg custard, and baked into a pull-apart casserole. The result is gooey inside, crisp on the peaks, and finished with a cream cheese glaze. It tastes like you spent hours on it when you really didn’t.

11. Harvest Veggie Breakfast Strata

A strata is essentially a savory bread pudding that soaks overnight for maximum flavor. This version packs in roasted squash, mushrooms, and kale, making it both colorful and hearty. Use sturdy day-old baguette so the cubes keep their shape.

12. Leftover Turkey Benedict

Swap traditional Canadian bacon for slices of roasted turkey to give Eggs Benedict a holiday spin. A quick blender hollandaise streamlines the sauce so you’re not whisking over a stove. Sprinkle with minced chives for a fresh finish.

13. Brussels Sprout & Cheddar Egg Bites

Shaved Brussels sprouts soften and sweeten during baking, pairing nicely with sharp cheddar. The bites bake in a water bath for extra fluffiness. Freeze any extras; they reheat well for quick weekday breakfasts.

14. Spiced Pear Pancakes

Grated fresh pear keeps these pancakes moist while cinnamon and ginger echo fall flavors. A bit of whole-wheat flour adds nuttiness without weighing them down. Serve with maple syrup or a spoonful of vanilla yogurt.

15. Cranberry Walnut Granola Parfaits

Homemade granola baked with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts adds crunch to tangy yogurt. Assemble parfaits just before serving so the granola stays crisp. Honey or maple syrup offers a touch of sweetness if desired.

16. Mushroom & Herb Mini Tarts

Buttery puff pastry shells cradle a filling of cremini mushrooms, thyme, and a splash of cream. They bake up bite-sized and elegant, yet require minimal hands-on time. Offer them as a warm appetizer or part of a larger brunch spread.

17. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowls

Frozen banana and pumpkin purée blend into a spoonable base that tastes like holiday dessert. Greek yogurt adds protein, while almond milk keeps it light. Finish with crunchy toppings for texture contrast.

18. Ham & Swiss Puff Pastry Squares

Keep frozen puff pastry on hand for these quick savory bites. Smoky ham and nutty Swiss melt together inside buttery layers. Cut the sheet into small squares so guests can sample a variety of dishes.

19. Gingerbread Waffles

Molasses and warm spices transform ordinary waffles into a seasonal treat. Crisp edges hide a tender interior perfect for soaking up maple syrup. Try topping with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed gingersnaps.

20. Autumn Veggie Shakshuka

Traditional shakshuka meets fall produce with the addition of butternut squash and sweet bell peppers. Eggs poach right in the spiced tomato mixture for easy cleanup. Scoop servings with warm pita or crusty bread.

21. Cornbread and Apple Stuffing Muffins

All the flavors of classic stuffing are baked into portable muffins. Cornbread provides sweetness while diced apples lend moisture and tart contrast. They’re a clever way to serve stuffing without forks and knives.

22. Smoked Salmon & Dill Bagel Board

A DIY bagel board invites guests to customize breakfast. Smoked salmon pairs beautifully with fresh dill and briny capers. Offer whipped cream cheese and thin cucumber slices for refreshing crunch.

23. Caramelized Onion and Kale Frittata

Slow-cooked onions lend deep flavor that permeates the entire frittata. Kale wilts into tender bites while cheddar adds richness. This dish reheats well, making it ideal for second helpings later in the day.

24. Maple Pecan Yogurt Dip with Fruit

Greek yogurt whipped with maple syrup becomes a protein-packed dip. Toasted pecans supply crunch and a nutty aroma. Pair with crisp seasonal fruit for a lighter offering amid richer fare.

25. Roasted Pumpkin & Ricotta Toast

Whipped ricotta provides a creamy base for sweet-savory roasted pumpkin. A hint of honey and flaky salt ties everything together. Serve open-faced or cut into bite-sized pieces for sharing.

26. Turkey Cranberry Monte Cristo

Turkey, cranberry sauce, and Swiss cheese are layered between bread, dipped in egg, and griddled until golden. A quick dusting of sugar nods to the sandwich’s French-toast roots. It’s both savory and sweet in each bite.

27. Apple Sausage Breakfast Burritos

Mild chicken sausage flecked with apple adds a hint of sweetness to classic breakfast fillings. Wrap burritos in foil to keep them warm in the oven until everyone is ready. They freeze nicely for later, too.

28. Vanilla Chai Oatmeal

Steep whole spices in milk to infuse oats with comforting chai flavor. A dash of vanilla rounds out the spice profile. Finish with sliced almonds for texture.

29. Spinach, Artichoke & Parmesan Crescent Ring

Ready-to-bake crescent rolls encase a creamy spinach-artichoke filling reminiscent of the classic dip. The ring shape slices easily into shareable segments. Serve warm while the cheese is still melty.

30. Brown Butter Banana Bread

Nutty brown butter elevates standard banana bread with deeper caramel notes. Use extra-ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor. Toast slices lightly and serve with soft butter for brunch.

31. Cranberry Almond Breakfast Couscous

Couscous cooks in minutes, making it a speedy alternative to oatmeal. A splash of orange juice during cooking infuses subtle citrus notes. Fluff with a fork and finish with crunchy almonds.

32. Turkey Sweet Potato Breakfast Tacos

Roasted sweet potato cubes provide substance while leftover turkey adds protein. A quick tomatillo salsa brightens each taco. Offer hot sauce on the side for heat seekers.

33. Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Pecans

Melting a wheel of brie takes less than 15 minutes and feels instantly festive. Sweet fig jam and buttery pecans complement the creamy cheese. Serve with sturdy crackers or sliced baguette for scooping.

34. Orange Cardamom Sticky Buns

Cardamom gives these buns a gentle floral spice that pairs beautifully with bright orange. The caramel glaze seeps into each spiral, keeping the dough tender. A little patience during rising yields impressive bakery-style results.

35. Savory Pumpkin Polenta with Fried Eggs

Pumpkin purée stirred into polenta turns it a vibrant hue and adds subtle sweetness. A fried egg on top provides runny yolk sauce. Crispy sage leaves give aroma and crunch.

36. Cran-Apple Mimosa Pitcher

Sparkling wine meets equal parts cranberry and apple juices for a tart-sweet cocktail. Mixing in a pitcher streamlines serving so you’re not constantly refilling glasses. Offer a non-alcoholic sparkling cider version for kids and teetotalers.

37. Bacon, Leek & Potato Galette

A butter crust folds casually over a filling reminiscent of potato soup yet portable. Crispy bacon punctuates creamy potatoes and sweet leeks. Slice into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

38. Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake

A tender sour-cream batter supports a hefty layer of buttery crumble. Bake it the night before and simply warm slices in the oven. It pairs perfectly with a fresh pot of coffee.

39. Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad

Earthy beets and tangy goat cheese create a color-rich salad that cuts through heavier dishes. Toasted walnuts give welcome crunch. Dress lightly with balsamic so the vegetables shine.

40. Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Boats with Eggs

Halved acorn squash becomes an edible bowl that roasts until tender and sweet. Crack an egg into the cavity for the final minutes of baking. A drizzle of maple syrup balances the savory egg yolk.

41. Turkey & Stuffing Waffles with Gravy Drizzle

Press leftover stuffing in a waffle iron to create crisp edges and soft centers. Pile on warm turkey and spoon over silky gravy. It’s a playful nod to day-after sandwiches, served before noon.

42. Apple Cheddar Biscuits

Tart apple bits keep these biscuits moist while sharp cheddar lends richness. Grate frozen butter into the dough for extra fluff. They’re delicious plain or split and filled with ham.

43. Spiced Oatmeal Latte

Simmer old-fashioned oats in milk, strain, and use the creamy liquid as a naturally sweet latte base. Espresso or strong coffee blends seamlessly with the oat milk. Finish with pumpkin pie spice for seasonal flair.

44. Sausage, Cranberry & Brie Hand Pies

These portable pockets combine savory sausage with tart cranberry sauce and gooey brie. Refrigerated pie dough speeds assembly. Serve warm so the cheese stretches with each bite.

45. Carrot Cake Overnight French Toast

Cubed bread soaks in an egg mixture flavored with grated carrots, pineapple, and warm spices. Baking releases the aroma of classic carrot cake while keeping the texture of French toast. A quick cream cheese drizzle ties it all together.

46. Spinach and Feta Phyllo Cups

Mini phyllo shells offer crunch without the fuss of layering sheets. The filling mirrors spanakopita with spinach, feta, and herbs. They’re bite-sized and perfect for mingling guests.

47. Pumpkin Banana Smoothie

Frozen banana sweetens and thickens this smoothie naturally. Pumpkin purée supplies vitamins and a smooth texture. A pinch of nutmeg makes each sip feel like autumn.

48. Sweet Potato & Black Bean Breakfast Nachos

Breakfast nachos swap typical meat for hearty sweet potatoes and fiber-rich beans. Bake until the cheese bubbles, then add fresh toppings for contrast. Serve with scrambled eggs on the side for extra protein.

49. Cinnamon Apple Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seeds thicken overnight in almond milk, creating a pudding-like base. A quick stovetop apple compote adds natural sweetness and seasonal spice. Assemble in jars for easy grab-and-go servings.

50. Turkey Bacon Avocado Breakfast Salad

This salad balances rich brunch dishes with fresh vegetables and lean protein. A mustard-maple vinaigrette echoes holiday flavors. Serve it family-style so guests can help themselves.

51. Maple Walnut Scones

Toasted walnuts bring depth and crunch to tender, maple-sweetened dough. Freezing the cut triangles before baking helps them keep their shape. Enjoy warm with extra butter if you like.

52. Cheesy Grits with Roasted Mushrooms

Stone-ground grits simmer into a velvety base perfect for sharp cheddar. Roasted mushrooms add umami and a satisfying bite. Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for color.

53. Cranberry Orange Yogurt Loaf

Greek yogurt keeps this loaf moist while reducing the need for extra oil. Fresh orange zest perfumes the entire kitchen during baking. It slices cleanly, making it ideal for buffet platters.

54. Pumpkin Spice Granola Clusters

Maple syrup and pumpkin purée bind oats into crunchy clusters that break apart easily. Baking at a low temperature ensures even browning without burning nuts. Store in an airtight jar for up to two weeks.

55. Herb Stuffed Breakfast Peppers

Bell peppers act as edible cups for fluffy eggs seasoned with parsley, dill, and chives. Baking keeps the eggs tender while softening the peppers just enough. They add bright color to the brunch table.

56. Apple Butter & Prosciutto Crostini

Sweet apple butter and salty prosciutto create an effortless yet sophisticated bite. Toast the baguette slices ahead, then assemble just before serving to preserve crunch. A pinch of cracked pepper balances the sweetness.

57. Butternut Squash Pancakes

Puréed butternut squash makes pancakes naturally sweet and vibrantly colored. A touch of cinnamon heightens the autumn vibe. They freeze well, so make a double batch for busy mornings.

58. Turkey Sausage Mini Quiches

Pie crust circles press easily into muffin cups to form bases for these bite-sized quiches. Turkey sausage keeps them lighter while still flavorful. Cool completely before refrigerating to avoid soggy bottoms.

59. Maple Roasted Root Vegetable Hash

Roasting root vegetables concentrates their sweetness and creates crisp edges. A late addition of maple syrup forms a glossy glaze. Top the hash with poached eggs for extra protein.

60. Pear & Blue Cheese Flatbread

Sweet pears mellow the sharp bite of blue cheese on a crisp flatbread base. A quick broil melts the cheese without overcooking the fruit. Scatter fresh arugula on top for peppery freshness.

61. Pumpkin Spice Affogato

Espresso meets pumpkin-spiced ice cream for a quick dessert-coffee hybrid. The hot coffee partially melts the ice cream into a creamy latte-like treat. Serve immediately so guests can watch the swirl form.

62. Cranberry Maple Sausage Patties

Ground pork or turkey mixed with maple syrup and cranberries captures Thanksgiving flavor in each bite. Form small patties so they cook evenly. Keep them warm in a low oven until serving time.

63. Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls

Mashed sweet potato enriches the dough, adding moisture and a golden hue. Brown sugar and cinnamon spiral through each roll for familiar comfort. Allow enough rise time for the fluffiest texture.

64. Mushroom Spinach Breakfast Lasagna

Lasagna for breakfast feels luxurious yet is simple to assemble the night before. Layers of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta sit between no-boil noodles. A final shower of mozzarella crisps under the broiler.

65. Hot Honey Chicken and Biscuit Bites

Small pieces of fried or baked chicken tuck neatly into split biscuits for a Southern-style treat. Hot honey adds sweet heat without extra sauce dishes. They’re hearty enough to stand alone or join a larger spread.