AIP is an acronym for Autoimmune Protocol and is a diet that is a stricter form of the popular Paleolithic diet.
An AIP diet serves to eliminate inflammatory foods that exacerbate symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, and many more. Autoimmune diseases cause the body to fight itself by attacking healthy cells. The AIP diet eliminates foods that have been found to cause autoimmune disease symptoms to increase or cause "flare-ups".
The AIP diet is, first and foremost, an elimination diet, which means that it’s important to strictly eliminate foods before reintroducing them one-by-one to take note of their effects. For a majority of people, though, following an AIP diet from main course to dessert on an ongoing basis is essential to keeping their symptoms at bay.Within this post, you’ll find 11 easy AIP breakfast recipes that you're sure to love! Whether you're looking for something sweet, savory, made with minimal ingredients, or made in almost no time flat, we think these easy AIP breakfast ideas are the best!
—
1. Egg-Free Breakfast Pot Pie
In terms of AIP breakfast ideas, who wouldn’t love a delicious, warming, and filling pot pie?! Enjoy a piece or two of this pot pie after waking up and you’re sure to start your day off on the right foot! Made with wholesome, nutritious ingredients like chopped kale, cauliflower, and fresh ginger, this AIP breakfast pot pie is a must for your weekly meal prep rotation!
Since we’re sure that you’ll love this pot pie recipe, you could even experiment with substituting in other forms of protein so you can enjoy this breakfast dish any time of day! The “Cauli Cream” is what AIP breakfasts are made of!
Per serving: 646 calories, 40g fat, 31g net carbs, 24g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from The Castaway Kitchen.
—
2. AIP Coconut Cassava Pancakes
Nothing says “traditional breakfast” quite like pancakes or waffles! This recipe is a fun spin on the traditional as it utilizes a mixture of cassava flour and coconut flour, rather than enriched wheat flour or almond flour, making it a compliant AIP diet breakfast.
In this AIP breakfast recipe, you will also see that coconut milk and coconut oil are utilized. Coconut products are very popular in AIP diet breakfast recipes as coconut is a compliant ingredient and can be incorporated into the recipes you love to make and eat!
Per serving: 349 calories, 14g fat, 35g net carbs, 8g protein
Get the AIP diet breakfast recipe from Healing Autoimmune.
—
3. Squashbrowns (Nightshade-Free Hashbrowns)
Aside from this AIP diet breakfast recipe having such a fun name, these "squash browns" are absolutely delicious, and extremely nutrient-dense. As far as AIP diet breakfast ideas go, they’re made with spaghetti squash, coconut oil, and salt. This simple recipe yields a meal so delicious that you’ll be satiated and energized for hours to come!
Did you know that spaghetti squash is one of the best ingredients to have on-hand if you follow an AIP diet?! It is full of beneficial vitamins and minerals, is very high in fiber, and provides an excellent flavor profile that will take any dish you make to the next level! This AIP breakfast recipe, in particular, shows off how versatile spaghetti squash is, as it is developed to mimic potato hash browns. Yum!
If you’re new to working with spaghetti squash, we would recommend investing in a very sharp knife to cut the squash in half, which will ensure you will remain safe! Squash can sometimes be challenging to cut, making a sharp, hefty knife essential as a dull knife will make cutting very difficult.
Per serving: 231 calories, 22g fat, 6g net carbs, 1g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from A Clean Plate.
—
4. Super Thick Coconut Yogurt (The Shortcut Method!)
Homemade yogurt is a staple for many people who follow an AIP diet and are focused on healing their guts. Among AIP diet breakfast ideas, this yogurt is high in healthy gut-promoting probiotics, as well as other nutritious ingredients like coconut meat and coconut water.
For this particular recipe, we suggest doubling the ingredients so you'll have plenty of yogurt to enjoy for breakfast for autoimmune disease during an entire week! It will make the effort of making the recipe so worth it! Your taste buds will thank you for the flavor and your stomach will thank you for the nourishment!
Per serving: 130 calories, 7g fat, 5g net carbs, 2g protein
Get the AIP diet breakfast recipe from Oh She Glows.
—
5. AIP Paleo "Raisin Bran"
Paleo AIP breakfast recipes don’t get much simpler than this! With only three straightforward ingredients, this cereal is a perfect choice to whip together on busy weekday mornings.
In terms of AIP breakfast ideas, you can double (or even triple!) the recipe and package each serving in separate food storage bags to have on hand to just "grab-and-go" on your way to the office or to run morning errands.
Serve this cereal with a splash of coconut milk for a filling, delicious, and AIP-compliant meal!
Per serving: 317 calories, 27g fat, 12g net carbs, 3g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from Healy Eats Real.
—
6. AIP Breakfast Tapioca Porridge
Porridge, a quite common breakfast choice for many throughout the world, is typically made with oats, which are an ingredient that is considered “non-compliant” for an AIP diet breakfast; however, this does not mean that porridge is off-limits! With some accurate ingredient substitutions, you can make and enjoy a bowl of hearty, warming, and AIP-compliant oats for your morning breakfast.
In this recipe, you will notice that tapioca pearls are used in place of rolled oats. Tapioca pearls have a very similar texture to oats and are safe to eat on a paleo and Autoimmune Protocol diet. To ensure the tapioca pearls are incorporated properly and absorb liquid like rolled oats would be sure to follow the recipe instructions exactly. As far as AIP diet breakfast ideas go, the resulting meal is sure to satisfy all of your porridge cravings!
Per serving: 352 calories, 12.8g fat, 50.8g net carbs, 3.8g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from All Recipes.
—
7. Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage
If you prefer a breakfast on AIP diet that’s a bit more savory, this hash made with butternut squash, apple, greens, and sausage is about to become your new favorite way to start your mornings! We especially love the addition of autumnal spices as they are not only a wonderful flavor addition to this hash, but they also provide a healthy dose of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Full of wholesome and nutritious ingredients, this AIP breakfast yields 4 servings and is perfect for a weekend morning when cooking for the family!
Per serving: 308 calories, 13g fat, 19g net carbs, 25g protein
Get the AIP diet breakfast recipe from The Real Food Dietitians.
—
8. Quick Keto Toast
Simple, straightforward, and full of flavor, this Quick Keto Toast recipe is so delicious! With the addition of toppings, you can have yourself a satiating AIP breakfast on the go that is sure to satisfy you and keep you energized throughout the day!
Compared to our other AIP diet breakfast recipes, you will notice this one uses beef gelatin. Beef gelatin is a commonly-called for ingredient in paleo, low-carb, and AIP breakfast recipes due to its ability to form an egg-like consistency to hold ingredients together. Beef gelatin is incredibly healthy and is known for its ability to heal compromised digestive systems and provide a dose of nutrient-dense protein!
The best part of this AIP breakfast? The entire recipe can be made from start to finish in under 30 minutes! Sounds like one of the best AIP breakfast ideas to us!
Per serving: 149 calories, 13g fat, 1g net carbs, 2g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from Sugar Free Mom.
—
9. Berry Collagen Protein Bar
Do you need an easy autoimmune protocol breakfast? Protein bars are perfect for busy weekday mornings when you don’t have time to make a full meal. If you whip this recipe up over the weekend, you can easily store these bars to enjoy each morning to start your day off on the right foot!
Per serving: 295 calories, 20g fat, 11g net carbs, 11g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from Grassfed Salsa.
—
10. Apple Pork Breakfast Sausage Patties
Sausage patties are a tasty and easy way to get in a hearty serving of protein to start off your day! Among this list of AIP breakfast ideas, this recipe is a favorite of many people who follow paleo and AIP diets as it is so simple to prepare. The sausage patties freeze and thaw so well, too, which makes breakfast meal prep a total breeze!
Serve these sausage patties alongside your favorite sautéed vegetable(s) cooked in a healthy, AIP-compliant fat and you will be energized and fulfilled all day long!
Per serving: 364 calories, 27g fat, 8g net carbs, 19g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from Steph Gaudreau.
—
11. Avocado Banana Green Smoothie
If you are someone who prefers to wait a little while to eat solid food in the morning, smoothies are a fantastic way to get nutrients into your digestive system. Relative to our other AIP breakfasts, we love this green smoothie featuring avocado and bananas as it is creamy, perfectly sweetened, and leaves us feeling satisfied after each sip!
If you are strapped for time in the mornings, this AIP diet breakfast can be made the night before, stored in a glass jar, and enjoyed during your commute to work or at your desk!
Per serving: 146 calories, 6g fat, 12.9g net carbs, 6.9g protein
Get the AIP breakfast recipe from Minimalist Baker.
What Makes a Breakfast AIP-Friendly?
Understanding what makes AIP breakfasts compliant is essential for successfully following Autoimmune Protocol. To reiterate, the foundation of any AIP diet breakfast lies in focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods while eliminating ingredients that may trigger autoimmune responses.
AIP breakfast recipes center around high-quality proteins like grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and organ meats, paired with plenty of vegetables and healthy fats. Unlike conventional breakfast foods, AIP diet breakfast ideas avoid grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, nightshades, dairy, and eggs during the elimination phase.
This means saying goodbye to traditional cereals, toast, and scrambled eggs. At the same time, it opens the door to creative and nourishing alternatives.
The key to successful AIP breakfasts is incorporating foods that support gut healing and reduce inflammation. Coconut products, such as coconut milk and coconut oil, are staples in many AIP diet breakfast recipes because they provide healthy fats and natural sweetness without triggering sensitivities.
Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, cassava, and winter squashes offer complex carbohydrates and fiber. These keep you satisfied throughout your morning.
Fermented foods also play a crucial role in AIP diet breakfast ideas, as they support digestive health and provide beneficial probiotics. Homemade coconut yogurt, fermented vegetables, and bone broth are excellent additions that enhance both flavor and nutritional value in your morning meals.
Tips for Making the Most of Your AIP Breakfasts
Maximizing success with AIP breakfast recipes requires planning, preparation, and creativity. Here are essential strategies to help you thrive on your autoimmune protocol journey while enjoying delicious morning meals.
Meal Prep Is Your Best Friend
When it comes to AIP breakfasts, dedicate time each weekend to preparing components for the week ahead. Cook large batches of breakfast sausage patties, pre-cut vegetables for hash recipes, or prepare homemade coconut yogurt. Having these elements ready makes assembling AIP diet breakfast recipes quick and effortless during busy weekday mornings.
Stock Your Pantry with AIP-Friendly Staples
This ensures you always have ingredients on hand for preparing any of these AIP diet breakfast ideas. Keep coconut flour, cassava flour, coconut milk, and quality cooking fats like coconut oil readily available. Having a well-stocked freezer with pre-made breakfast items, such as breakfast sausage patties or smoothie ingredients, provides convenient backup options.
Embrace Batch Cooking
For AIP breakfast recipes that freeze well, many can be doubled or tripled, with extras stored in the freezer for future meals. This approach saves time and ensures you always have compliant options available, even when life gets hectic.
Focus on Protein-Rich Options
This will help you maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the morning. Incorporating high-quality protein sources like grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, or AIP-quality snacks helps sustain energy and prevents mid-morning crashes that can derail your day.
Don't Forget About Portable Options
For busy mornings, simple AIP breakfasts like homemade protein bars, coconut yogurt with berries, or even a piece of compliant beef jerky can provide quick nutrition when you're rushing out the door.
The Bottom Line
Following an autoimmune protocol doesn't mean sacrificing delicious, satisfying breakfasts. These AIP breakfast recipes prove that you can enjoy flavorful, nutrient-dense morning meals while supporting your body's healing process.
The most important aspect of making successful AIP breakfasts is consistency and preparation. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods that support healing and reduce inflammation, you can create satisfying morning meals that align with your autoimmune protocol goals.
The variety of AIP diet breakfast ideas available ensures you'll never get bored with your morning routine. Whether you prefer sweet options like coconut pancakes or savory choices like breakfast hash, these recipes provide the foundation for a successful autoimmune protocol journey.
Remember that AIP diet breakfast recipes don't have to be complicated, either. Simple combinations of quality protein, vegetables, and healthy fats can provide the nutrition and energy you need to start your day right.
The key is to view AIP breakfasts not as restrictions, but as opportunities to nourish your body with foods that promote healing and vitality. With proper planning and a collection of go-to AIP diet breakfast ideas, you'll find that maintaining your autoimmune protocol becomes second nature throughout your healing journey.
When you need convenient, protein-rich options to complement your AIP breakfasts, consider adding Chomps to your routine. Our thoughtfully-sourced protein sticks are Paleo Certified, Whole30 Approved, and made with 100% grass-fed and finished beef.
With 10+ grams of high-quality protein and 0g sugar, Chomps makes an excellent addition to our AIP diet breakfast ideas. Try our Smoky BBQ Beef and Original Beef stick flavors, or explore our variety packs to find your favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to have for breakfast on an AIP diet?
AIP diet breakfast options include nutrient-dense foods like breakfast hash made with root vegetables and compliant proteins, coconut-based smoothies with berries, homemade coconut yogurt with fruit, or breakfast sausage patties made from grass-fed meat.
Focus on combinations of quality protein, vegetables, and healthy fats while avoiding grains, dairy, eggs, nuts, and nightshades during the elimination phase.
Can I eat oatmeal on an AIP diet?
Traditional oatmeal is not permitted on the AIP diet as oats are grains, which are eliminated during the protocol. However, you can enjoy AIP breakfast recipes that mimic oatmeal using compliant ingredients like tapioca pearls, coconut flour, or cauliflower rice cooked with coconut milk and warming spices to create satisfying porridge-like dishes.
Can you eat peanut butter on the AIP diet?
Peanut butter is not allowed on the AIP diet because peanuts are legumes, not nuts. However, you can use coconut butter or make seed-free "butter" alternatives using coconut meat in many AIP diet breakfast recipes to achieve similar creamy textures and flavors.
Is bacon AIP approved?
Most commercial bacon is not AIP-compliant due to added sugars, nitrates, and other non-compliant ingredients. However, you can find AIP-friendly bacon options that are sugar-free, nitrate-free, and made without problematic additives. Always read labels carefully, or consider making your own breakfast sausage using compliant ingredients for AIP breakfasts.
Can I have coffee on the AIP diet?
Coffee is generally not recommended during the strict elimination phase of the AIP diet. It can be inflammatory for some individuals with autoimmune conditions.
Many people following AIP diet breakfast routines choose herbal teas, bone broth, or other warming beverages instead. Coffee may be reintroduced during the reintroduction phase to test individual tolerance.
What are some easy AIP breakfast ideas?
Easy AIP breakfast ideas include simple smoothies made with coconut milk and berries, leftover dinner proteins with sautéed vegetables, homemade coconut yogurt with fruit, or quick breakfast hash using pre-cooked ingredients. Batch-prepped items like breakfast sausage patties, AIP-compliant muffins, or overnight "oats" made with coconut and tapioca can also provide quick morning solutions that fit perfectly into your collection of AIP diet breakfast recipes.
