My Go-To Quick & Easy Breakfast Ideas
Whether you’re rushing to class or have a little extra time in the morning, breakfast is key to starting your day off right. As a college student at DePaul, you’re surrounded by great options, whether you want to whip something up at home or grab a quick bite on the go! Here are some simple breakfast ideas to keep you fueled and ready to tackle your day:
1. Yogurt & Parfaits
Trader Joe’s is a go-to spot for many DePaul students, especially since the location on Diversey Parkway is just a short 10-minute walk from the Lincoln Park campus. Their selection of yogurt is not only delicious but also affordable. You’ll find a variety of flavors, from classic Greek yogurt to fun options like Mango, Passionfruit, and Guava. The yogurt is creamy and rich in quality, offering a quick protein boost to start your day. At $0.99 per cup, it’s a cost-effective breakfast that you can grab while grocery shopping.
You can also use the yogurt from Trader Joe’s to make a delicious parfait with layers of oats, fruit, and nuts. Mix everything together in a mason jar, leave it in the fridge overnight, and you’ll have a tasty, grab-and-go breakfast waiting for you in the morning. Top it with granola and some fresh fruit for an even more satisfying yogurt parfait. If you’ve got a bit more time to prep at home, try making overnight oats or smoothie packs the night before.Smoothie packs are another time-saver—just prep your favorite fruits, freeze them in bags, and blend with milk or yogurt when you’re ready.
2. Protein Coffee and Protein Shakes
I know it’s super easy to just drink coffee in the morning, but try not to have coffee on an empty stomach! If you need something quick that packs both protein and caffeine, Slate Protein Coffee is a great option. I came across these cans in Target and it did not disappoint. With 20 grams of protein, it’s perfect for when you’re running late but still want a breakfast that will keep you going through the morning.
Protein shakes also offer a convenient way to get a nutritious breakfast on the go, coming in flavors like chocolate and vanilla. My personal favorite is the Fair Life brand; Muscle Milk is also great in my opinion. You can find both of these options at local grocery stores or order them online for easy access. These portable breakfast options make sure you’re not missing out on important nutrients while balancing a busy schedule.
3. Bagels & Breakfast Sandwiches
Bagels are a classic, easy breakfast. If you’re around DePaul’s Lincoln Park campus, check out The Bagelers on Lincoln Avenue or Chicago Bagel Authority (there’s one on Belmont and one on Armitage). They offer a wide range of bagel flavors, from classic plain to everything bagels, along with plenty of spreads like cream cheese or avocado. For a more filling option, try one of their bagel sandwiches with eggs, cheese, and bacon. If you prefer making them at home, stock up on bagels from any nearby grocery stores, and top them with your favorite spreads for a quick breakfast!
4. On-Campus Options
If you don’t have time to head off-campus or don’t have a meal plan, DePaul offers several on-campus options that are perfect for grabbing breakfast between classes. The Bean, located in the Student Center and McGowan South, is a student-favorite for coffee, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. They offer a variety of quick, grab-and-go options like muffins, croissants, and bagels that you can grab on the way to your first class. The ETC is another great spot, providing convenient access to snacks, beverages, and ready-made breakfast options for those in a rush. These on-campus spots make it easy to fuel up without leaving campus or spending too much time.
5. Breakfast Around the Loop Campus
For students attending classes at DePaul’s Loop campus, there are some fantastic quick breakfast options nearby. Hero Coffee Bar (right across DePaul Center) is a student favorite, serving up rich coffee and delicious breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and pastries. Their cozy spot is perfect for grabbing a quick bite before class. Another great option is the Capital One Café on State Street. Not only do they offer a relaxed space to work or study, but they also have an excellent selection of coffee and breakfast bites, like avocado toast and smoothies. Plus, if you’re a Capital One cardholder, you can score half-off on your coffee!
6. Make-Ahead Breakfasts
If you’ve got a bit more time to prep at home, try making overnight oats or smoothie packs the night before. You can use the yogurt from Trader Joe’s to make a delicious parfait with layers of oats, fruit, and nuts. Mix everything together in a mason jar, leave it in the fridge overnight, and you’ll have a tasty, grab-and-go breakfast waiting for you in the morning. Smoothie packs are another time-saver—just prep your favorite fruits, freeze them in bags, and blend with milk or yogurt when you’re ready!
With these simple breakfast ideas, you can make sure you’re staying fueled no matter how hectic your mornings are. Whether you’re grabbing something quick on the way to class or whipping up a nutritious breakfast at home, you’ve got plenty of options around DePaul to help you start your day right.
~ Saira