Make High-Protein Oatmeal With These 7 Add-Ins

June 14, 2024

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A nutrient-dense healthy breakfast is vital to fuel you for your busy days, and it’s no wonder that oatmeal is a go-to: It’s fast, it’s a good source of fiber, and there are tons of ways to flavor it to make each morning meal different. However, there is not much protein in oatmeal itself, and you need protein to help keep you feeling full and energized. Luckily, transforming your bowl into protein oatmeal is as simple as adding a few simple ingredients.

Check out these seven high-protein ingredients that will deliver all the power you need to get through the morning.

1. Egg whites

Adding a couple of egg whites to a bowl of oatmeal not only adds a punch of protein to your meal, it also gives it a thick and full texture. Egg whites are one of the best ways to get a hearty bowl of protein oatmeal. Two large egg whites contain about 7.2 grams of protein. To do it, cook your oats as you normally would. When the liquid has almost absorbed, slowly drizzle in the egg whites, whisking vigorously as you go to prevent the egg whites from scrambling. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the oatmeal is thick and creamy.

2. Almonds

A traditional bowl of oatmeal can really go the extra mile by simply topping it off with some sliced (or chopped) almonds. Topping your bowl of oatmeal with a quarter cup of sliced or chopped almonds will add about 7 grams of protein to your breakfast.

3. Nut butter

Take your pick of nut butter when it comes to creating a tasty bowl of protein oatmeal. Peanut butter, the most traditional option, bumps up the flavor of your oats, and two tablespoons adds about 8 grams of protein. It’s also delicious with banana, berries, or even a few mini chocolate chips.

4. Greek yogurt

We love to add some plain Greek yogurt to overnight oats for more protein, a creamy texture, and a shot of gut-healthy probiotics. You also can add it to a warm bowl; let the oatmeal cool off a bit before stirring in the yogurt so you don’t cook off the probiotic benefits.

5. Protein powder

Protein powder is a super-easy way to transform oats into protein oatmeal, and with the array of flavors it comes in, it can also make your morning bowl more fun. From regular chocolate and vanilla to more exotic varieties like salted caramel and cookies and cream, there are many choices to flavor your bowl. Typically, one scoop will give you between 20 and 25 grams of protein (sometimes less if you choose a plant-based powder; be sure to check the label carefully).

6. Soy milk

This is a great vegan option for any oatmeal lovers who want that creamy texture without dairy. A 1-cup serving of soy milk adds about 7 grams of protein. Use plain or a vanilla flavor, but make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid excess sugar.

7. Bone broth

If you like a savory oatmeal, cook oats in bone broth instead of water. Broth adds a deep savory edge to the oats, and a 1-cup serving adds around 9 grams of protein. Bone broth also can help reduce inflammation, and it contain collagen, which is beneficial for hair, skin, nails, joins, and hut health.