If you’re craving homemade Portillo’s breakfast recipes, you’re in for a treat. These fun, flavorful meals bring the bold taste of Portillo’s right to your kitchen no long lines, no drive-thru, just easy comfort food to start your day. Whether you want something sweet, savory, or simple for the kids, these breakfast ideas have something for everyone.
So tie on your apron and grab a fork we’re turning your kitchen into a mini Portillo’s!
What Is Portillo’s and Why Do People Love It?
What makes Portillo’s food so special
“This image sets the welcoming tone of the post and introduces readers to how easy and joyful making Portillo’s-style breakfast at home can be.”
Portillo’s is a famous restaurant chain that started in Chicago. People love it because it serves delicious, comforting food fast. From Italian beef sandwiches to chopped salads and chocolate cake shakes, it’s got something for everyone.
“It’s like fast food, but with a homemade taste and that’s why folks keep coming back.”
The magic of Portillo’s is how they take simple ingredients like lettuce, bacon, or pasta and make them taste amazing. And guess what? You can recreate those same flavors at home, especially for breakfast!
Here are a few of the all-time faves you’ll see in HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes:
- The chopped salad (we’ll give it a breakfast twist)
- The chocolate cake shake (yup, we made it breakfast-approved!)
- Sausage and egg sandwiches
- Crispy bacon and cheesy toppings
Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, there’s a way to bring Portillo’s to your breakfast table.
Popular Portillo’s dishes people crave at home
Let’s take a peek at the Portillo’s dishes people are always trying to copy at home:
| Dish Name | What’s in it? | Breakfast Twist Idea |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Salad | Lettuce, bacon, pasta, chicken, cheese | Add eggs, serve it warm or with toast |
| Chocolate Cake Shake | Chocolate cake blended with ice cream | Make a smoothie-style shake for mornings |
| Italian Beef Sandwich | Slow-cooked beef on a bun | Turn it into a breakfast beef wrap |
| Bacon and Egg Sandwich | Toasted bun, eggs, bacon, cheese | Easy DIY version for school mornings |
| Hot Dog (Chicago-style) | Mustard, pickles, onions, relish, celery salt | Swap the bun for scrambled eggs or toast |
Many of these dishes can easily be flipped into fun, homemade breakfast recipes. You’ll learn how in the next sections.
Fun fact: Did you know some fans even make Portillo’s breakfast pasta salads using leftovers from dinner? It’s a thing!
Getting Started with Homemade Portillo’s Breakfast Recipes
What ingredients you’ll need for homemade Portillo’s-style meals
Before diving into our HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes, it’s smart to prep your pantry and fridge with the key ingredients that give Portillo’s dishes their bold, cozy flavor. You’ll find most of these at any grocery store no fancy chef stuff here.
Here’s your shopping list in table form:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | Crispy, savory base | Turkey bacon also works |
| Chicken Breast | Protein boost | Leftovers or rotisserie chicken are fine |
| Romaine Lettuce | Crunchy salad base | Mix with red cabbage for texture |
| Eggs | Breakfast essential | Scrambled, boiled, or fried |
| Cheese (Gorgonzola or Cheddar) | Flavor and creaminess | Try feta or parmesan as swaps |
| Ditalini Pasta | Classic salad carb | Gluten-free pasta if needed |
| Olive Oil & Balsamic | For homemade dressing | Adds zesty flavor |
| Tomatoes & Onions | Color and crunch | Cherry tomatoes work too |
“Start with simple ingredients and let the flavors do the work.”
We’ll be using these over and over, so it’s a good idea to stock up a bit. You can also freeze cooked chicken or bacon to make your next meal even faster.
Best tools and tips to cook like a Portillo’s chef at home
You don’t need a restaurant kitchen to cook like a pro. Here are a few handy tools that’ll make these HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes a breeze:
- Sharp knife: for all that chopping and slicing
- Non-stick skillet: perfect for crispy bacon and eggs
- Mixing bowls: for salads, dressings, and prep
- Blender: for shakes and smoothies
- Air fryer (optional): makes crispy bacon in minutes
If you’re making a big batch, you might also want to check out these meal prep tips for busy mornings great for families or school days!
Copycat Portillo’s Chopped Salad for Breakfast
Why this salad works as a morning meal
Okay, we know salad for breakfast sounds weird at first. But once you try this twist on Portillo’s famous chopped salad, you’ll be hooked. It’s got eggs for protein, bacon for crunch, pasta to fill you up, and veggies to keep things light.
“Think of it as a breakfast bowl… but with more flavor and texture!”
You can even swap pasta for sweet potatoes or skip the cheese for a dairy-free twist.
Step-by-step recipe for homemade Portillo’s chopped breakfast salad
Let’s build it together! Below is the recipe easy, tasty, and kid-approved.
Ingredients & Quantities
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bacon | 6 slices, cooked |
| Eggs | 3, hard-boiled |
| Ditalini pasta (or GF option) | ½ cup, cooked |
| Romaine lettuce | 1 cup, chopped |
| Red cabbage | ½ cup, shredded |
| Cherry tomatoes | ½ cup, halved |
| Cooked chicken breast | ½ cup, diced |
| Gorgonzola cheese (or cheddar) | ¼ cup, crumbled |
Dressing (Homemade!)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | ⅓ cup |
| White balsamic vinegar | ¼ cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Maple syrup | 1 tsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Dried oregano | ½ tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Instructions
- Cook the bacon and pasta ahead of time and let them cool.
- Hard boil the eggs (about 10 minutes), then slice or chop.
- In a large bowl, toss together lettuce, cabbage, tomatoes, chicken, and pasta.
- Add chopped bacon and eggs on top.
- Mix dressing ingredients in a jar and shake it up.
- Drizzle dressing, toss everything gently, and serve right away.
“This salad keeps well in the fridge for 2 days just keep the dressing separate.”
This fresh take on HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes gives you a power-packed start to the day. Plus, it’s super flexible. Add avocado, swap cheese, or mix in some quinoa for a change!
Want more salad and chicken combo ideas? Try this rotisserie chicken sandwich guide for more inspiration!
Homemade Portillo’s Egg Sandwich with Italian Sausage
How to recreate a Portillo’s-style egg and sausage sandwich
If there’s one thing that screams breakfast comfort food, it’s a warm, toasty sandwich stuffed with eggs and sausage. This version of the classic Portillo’s breakfast sandwich brings that same savory joy right to your kitchen.
And the best part? It takes less than 15 minutes to make!
“It’s like your favorite fast-food sandwich but homemade, hotter, and way tastier.”
This is one of the top-requested HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes, especially by folks who want something hearty before school or work.
Ingredients & Prep Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | 2 large | Scrambled or over-easy |
| Italian sausage patty | 1 (or 2 small) | Cooked until golden brown |
| Cheese (American or Cheddar) | 1 slice | Melts best when hot |
| Burger bun (or English muffin) | 1 | Toasted for extra crunch |
| Butter | 1 tsp | For toasting bun |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Optional |
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a pan over medium and cook the sausage until it’s browned on both sides.
- In a small bowl, whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and scramble them in a buttered skillet.
- Toast your bun or muffin with a bit of butter.
- Layer the cooked sausage, eggs, and cheese on the bottom bun.
- Cover with the top bun and press gently.
Pro Tip: Wrap it in foil for a to-go breakfast or school lunch!
If you’re looking to try more sandwich-style breakfasts, you might love the bacon cheeseburger meatloaf recipe too it’s not breakfast, but it’s a flavor-packed meal that could inspire a lunch version of this sandwich.
Portillo’s-Inspired Breakfast Hot Dogs (Yes, Really!)
How to turn a hot dog into a fun breakfast recipe
Okay, this one might sound a little out there but trust us, it’s unbelievably good. A Portillo’s-style breakfast hot dog takes the bold, juicy taste of a classic Chicago dog and gives it a sunny-side-up spin. Kids love it, and it’s a super fun way to shake up your breakfast menu.
“It’s like brunch and baseball had a food baby!”
To make this work, you swap some of the traditional toppings with breakfast-style goodies. No ketchup needed we’re keeping it all savory!
Ingredients Breakdown
| Ingredient | Amount | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| All-beef hot dog | 1 | Grill or pan-sear for best flavor |
| Soft hot dog bun | 1 | Toasted if you like it crisp |
| Scrambled or fried egg | 1 | Runny yolk works great |
| Shredded cheddar or American cheese | 2 tbsp | Melty is best |
| Sautéed onions or bell peppers | 2 tbsp | Add more veggies if you like |
| Hash brown (optional) | ½ patty | Adds a crunchy twist |
Best toppings for a breakfast-style Portillo’s hot dog
Now let’s talk flavor! Here are some killer toppings to mix and match:
- Avocado slices: creamy and smooth
- Jalapeños: if you like a little heat
- Maple mustard: sweet and tangy
- Crumbled bacon: because… bacon
You can even try a “build-your-own” breakfast dog bar if you’ve got friends or kids over. Let everyone top their own dog with fun combos!
“You won’t believe how fun and tasty this is until you take the first bite.”
If this wild twist has you craving more creative meals, check out the pickle pie pizza yep, it’s a real thing and just as surprising!
Sweet Morning Treat – Copycat Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Shake
Easy chocolate cake shake recipe using store-bought cake
Now here’s a breakfast idea that feels a little naughty but hey, sometimes you just need a sweet start to your day. Portillo’s is famous for their chocolate cake shake, and we’re going to make a lighter version that’s totally okay for breakfast (once in a while, at least!).
“It’s part smoothie, part milkshake, and all chocolatey goodness.”
This version uses fewer ingredients and skips the heavy cream so you can sip without feeling weighed down. Plus, it only takes about 5 minutes!
Ingredients for the Breakfast Shake
| Item | Amount | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate cake slice | ½ slice (store-bought is fine) | Gives the shake its cake flavor |
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup | Adds protein and makes it creamy |
| Milk (any kind) | ¾ cup | Use almond or oat milk if you like |
| Cocoa powder (unsweetened) | 1 tsp | Extra chocolate boost |
| Banana (optional) | ½ | Adds natural sweetness |
| Ice cubes | 3–4 | Makes it nice and cold |
Just toss everything in the blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass, add a straw, and boom you’ve got dessert for breakfast (without the guilt).
“Want it more filling? Toss in a scoop of protein powder or oats!”
This shake is a perfect example of how HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes don’t always have to be savory. Sometimes, they can be downright fun.
Tips for making a lighter version for breakfast
You can make a few small changes to keep this shake more breakfast-friendly:
- Swap ice cream for frozen yogurt or plain Greek yogurt
- Use less cake and add banana or dates for sweetness
- Use almond milk for fewer calories
- Add chia seeds for fiber and energy
If you’re craving more dessert-for-breakfast fun, try pairing this with banana muffins or simple sourdough scones to balance things out!
Make-Ahead Breakfast Ideas from Portillo’s Menu
How to prep Portillo’s-style meals for busy mornings
We all know mornings can be a rush. That’s why it’s smart to prep your Portillo’s-inspired meals ahead of time. Luckily, many HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes work great as meal prep options!
“A little night-before planning can save you loads of time before school or work.”
Here are a few great ideas:
- Breakfast chopped salad: Mix everything except the dressing and store in a big container
- Egg sandwiches: Wrap in foil and refrigerate just heat in the toaster oven
- Cake shakes: Blend dry ingredients the night before and add ice/milk in the morning
- Breakfast hot dogs: Pre-cook sausage and eggs, then build them fresh when needed
These meals stay fresh for 2–3 days in the fridge if stored right.
Best containers and storage tips for breakfast meal prep
Not all containers are created equal. To keep your Portillo’s-inspired breakfasts tasty and safe, use:
| Container Type | Best For | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Glass meal prep boxes | Salads, egg dishes | Keeps food crisp, BPA-free |
| Mason jars | Dressings, chopped veggies | Leak-proof and easy to stack |
| Reusable sandwich wraps | Sandwiches, wraps | Great for the environment, too! |
| Insulated thermos | Warm eggs, sausages | Keeps things hot until lunch |
“Label your meals with the day you made them it’ll help you stay organized.”
Kid-Friendly Homemade Portillo’s Breakfast Recipes
Fun breakfast ideas that taste like Portillo’s
“Showcases mini egg sliders and smoothie pops that match the Portillo’s flavors but made fun for children to enjoy.”
Let’s face it kids can be picky eaters. But with these HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes, you’ll have them smiling from the first bite. These meals are colorful, yummy, and packed with the flavors little ones love.
“Making breakfast fun and tasty is a win-win for everyone at the table!”
Here are a few kid-tested favorites:
- Mini breakfast sliders: Use small buns, scrambled eggs, cheese, and tiny sausage patties.
- Egg muffin cups: Bake eggs, bacon bits, and cheese in a muffin pan no mess!
- Chocolate shake pops: Freeze the lighter chocolate cake shake into popsicle molds.
- Pasta breakfast salad: Skip lettuce and use pasta, eggs, and cheese cubes instead.
These recipes are easy to make ahead and fun to build together as a family.
Tips to involve kids in cooking at home
Getting kids involved in the kitchen can make meals even more exciting. Plus, they’re more likely to eat what they help make!
Try these simple ideas:
- Let them crack eggs or stir batter
- Use cookie cutters for fun sandwich shapes
- Set up a mini toppings bar so they can “build their own”
- Teach older kids to flip pancakes or toast buns
“When kids help out, they become proud little chefs!”
Healthy Swaps for Portillo’s Breakfast Recipes
How to cut sugar, fat, or gluten in copycat meals
We all love the rich, flavorful bite of Portillo’s food, but sometimes you want something a bit lighter. Good news you can still enjoy HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes with just a few healthy swaps.
“Healthier doesn’t mean boring. It just means smarter ingredients.”
Here are easy ways to lighten up your breakfast:
| Swap This | For This Instead | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| White pasta | Whole wheat or GF pasta | Adds fiber, less processed |
| Bacon | Turkey bacon or tofu bacon | Lower fat, still crispy |
| Cheese (full-fat) | Feta or light shredded cheese | Less saturated fat |
| Cake or syrup | Mashed banana or maple syrup | Natural sweetness |
| White bread | Whole grain or sourdough | More nutrients and flavor |
By swapping just one or two things, you can still enjoy all your favorite tastes without feeling too full or sluggish afterward.
Healthy ingredient swaps that still taste great
Sometimes, it’s all about balance. You can enjoy a little of everything without overdoing it. Try these tasty combos:
- Greek yogurt instead of mayo or sour cream in sandwiches or dressings
- Avocado slices instead of cheese in wraps or breakfast hot dogs
- Egg whites instead of whole eggs in scrambles or muffins
- Fruit as a sweet topping instead of jelly or sugar
“Small changes can still make your food taste amazing.”
If you’re interested in meals that are already focused on smart choices, take a peek at healthy baking recipes for even more light but tasty ideas!
Homemade Portillo’s Chopped Breakfast Salad
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Small Jar or Bowl (for dressing)
- Salad Tongs
- Knife & Cutting Board
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 slices bacon cooked and chopped
- 2 large eggs hard-boiled and chopped
- ½ cup cooked ditalini pasta or gluten-free pasta
- 1 cup romaine lettuce chopped
- ½ cup red cabbage shredded
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup cooked chicken breast diced
- ¼ cup gorgonzola cheese or cheddar crumbles
For the Dressing
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bacon, hard-boiled eggs, pasta, romaine, red cabbage, cherry tomatoes, chicken, and cheese.
- In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss everything until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
Conclusion
So, there you have it HOMEMADE Portillo’s breakfast recipes that are fun, flavorful, and easy to make at home. Whether you’re flipping an egg sandwich, blending a chocolate shake, or tossing a colorful salad, these ideas bring the joy of Portillo’s into your kitchen in a whole new way.
Best of all, these recipes are made with love, right at home, and can fit all kinds of mornings busy ones, lazy ones, or anything in between.
“Good food doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to make you smile.”
Now it’s your turn. Grab your spatula, gather the kids (if you’ve got ’em), and get cooking! Breakfast just got a whole lot better and a whole lot more Portillo’s.