Swap Out Your Plain Oats for These 4 Savory Oatmeals

I’ve been a savory oatmeal fan for a couple of years now, but almost every time I mention my passion for it, I’m met with the response of, “Ew, savory oatmeal??” For most people, I think this reaction comes from a mental block. When thinking of oatmeal, people automatically associate it with sweet flavors like brown sugar or cinnamon raisin, so hearing the word “savory” immediately throws them off.

I’d like to offer a different way of thinking about the grain. Imagine quinoa. You wouldn’t blink an eye if someone said they were mixing their quinoa with cheese and veggies. So why limit yourself with oatmeal, a grain that is just as wonderfully neutral in flavor?

To get you started on this fabulous new oatmeal journey, I’ve come up with four savory renditions that are sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your own mixes, though! Savory oatmeal can go in any number of directions. Cheddar bacon scallion? Goat cheese and mushrooms? The bowl’s the limit, my friends. 

Parmesan Pesto Oatmeal

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 1 minuteTotal time: 6 minutesServings:1 servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain quick oats prepared
• 1/4 cup parmesan
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes

Instructions

1. 
   

   Mix parmesan, basil pesto, and sundried tomatoes into the plain oatmeal.

2. 
   

   Enjoy!

Caramelized Onion Oatmeal

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutesServings:1 servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain quick oats prepared
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 yellow onion sliced and caramelized

Instructions

1. 
   

   Add cheese and onions to oatmeal.

2. 
   

   Enjoy!

Spicy Egg Oatmeal

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 4 minutesTotal time: 9 minutesServings:1 servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain quick oats prepared
• 1 fried egg
• 1 bunch green onion thinly sliced
• Sriracha to taste

Instructions

1. 
   

   Mix green onion into oatmeal.

2. 
   

   Top with fried egg and Sriracha.

3. 
   

   Enjoy!

Tomato Mozzarella Oatmeal

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 1 minuteTotal time: 6 minutesServings:1 servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain quick oats prepared
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 cup sliced grape tomatoes

Instructions

1. 
   

   Stir cheese, basil, and tomatoes into oatmeal.

2. 
   

   Enjoy!

• < 20 Minutes
• < 5 Ingredients
• Breakfast