10 Savory Oatmeal Recipes to Add Variety to Your Breakfast

February 12, 2024

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Oatmeal is such a popular breakfast – no doubt at some point you’ve enjoyed a packet of instant, a bowl of steel cut, or a mug of overnight oats to start your morning. We’re guessing you topped it with maple syrup, honey, fruit, or some other sweet item. But oats are also delicious with savory flavors, and changing it up can bring new life to this a.m. fave.

If that sounds strange, remember that oats are a grain, just like rice or quinoa. Just as you might pair those grains with savory ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or herbs, you can do the same with oatmeal. Check out these ten savory oatmeal recipes and take a fresh look at this pantry staple.

1. Savory Oatmeal with Eggs and Greens

Courtesy of Love and Lemons

Packed with extra protein thanks to jammy soft-cooked eggs, this savory oatmeal recipe is a great way to start off your morning. It’s topped with microgreens, scallions, and avocado slices, which makes it a colorful and nutritious bowl. Make it as is, or swap in other vegetables you have on hand, such as tomatoes or mushrooms (you can even throw on leftover veggies from last night’s dinner).

Try this recipe from Love and Lemons.

2. Savory Turmeric Chickpea Oats

Courtesy of The Full Helping

Here’s a nutritious plant-based bowl that’s ready in 15 minutes. Turmeric, which gives the oats a golden hue, is known for reducing inflammation. For extra creaminess, add tahini or hummus, and fold in some fresh herbs for flavor and a pop of color. Chickpeas on top enhance the texture and boost the protein and fiber.

Try this recipe from The Full Helping.

3. Savory Steel Cut Oatmeal

Courtesy of Cookie and Kate

Steel-cut oats take longer to cook, but the reward is a thicker, chewier bite. Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes, and top with an egg for extra protein. If you enjoy a richer, nuttier flavor, try toasting your oats in the pan before adding the liquid. Make these savory steel-cut oats over the weekend and store in the fridge, then just warm up a bowl on busy weekday mornings.

Try this recipe from Cookie and Kate.

4. Savory Oats with Vegetables

Courtesy of Veggies Don’t Bite

This fiber-packed savory breakfast only takes five minutes to make. Combine oats with vegetable broth, milk, or water, and then add spinach, parmesan (regular or plant-based), fresh lemon, and garlic. This flavorful bowl will keep you full and energized until lunch.

Try this recipe from Veggies Don’t Bite.

5. Savory Spanish Oatmeal

Courtesy of Destination Delish

Here’s a protein-rich oatmeal that combines chorizo and salsa for a little heat in the morning. With sour cream, a runny poached egg, and a savory sauce that combines roasted peppers, garlic, almonds, and paprika, this bold and tangy oatmeal is the perfect pick-me-up meal.

Try this recipe from Destination Delish.

6. Oatmeal with Miso, Cheddar, and Egg

Courtesy of Pups with Chopsticks

Miso paste lends a burst of salty, sweet, and meaty flavor to your oats. Layer the savory flavors by topping it with caramelized onions, mushrooms, and cheese. If you like some heat, drizzle with a little Sriracha. Bonus: Try this for lunch, or even dinner.

Try this recipe from Pups with Chopsticks.

7. Make Ahead Savory Baked Oatmeal Cups

Courtesy of She Likes Food

Baked oatmeal has been trendy for a while now – why not give it a savory spin? These are great for meal prep, too. Mix oats, sweet potatoes, and black beans as the base, and then finish with your favorite seasonings. These baked bites can serve as a filling breakfast or a healthy snack.

Try this recipe from She Likes Food.

8. Savory Oatmeal with Eggs and Bacon

Courtesy of Laura Fuentes

Cooking your oats in bacon grease makes them extra luscious and decadent (and saves on food waste, too). Add a runny egg on top to contrast with the crispy bacon, then sprinkle on cheese and chives for a filling, protein-rich breakfast.

Try this recipe from Laura Fuentes.

9. Cheesy Savory Oatmeal with Crispy Potatoes and Pesto

Courtesy of Snixy Kitchen

Pesto for breakfast – why not? Adding it to oats gives them a bright, punchy flavor. With crispy potatoes, soft-boiled eggs, shredded gouda, and roasted garlic, it’s a bowl that’s chock-full of some of our favorite flavors.

Try this recipe from Snixy Kitchen.

10. 5-Ingredient Chinese-Style Savory Oatmeal

Courtesy of Omnivore’s Cookbook

When you add chili and sesame oil to your morning oats, you bring heat and smokiness to the dish. Simmer your oats in chicken stock, then top with runny eggs, soy sauce, and crispy fried shallots. If you love the flavors of Chinese cuisine, you’ll find this breakfast deeply satisfying.

Try this recipe from Omnivore’s Cookbook.