Protein Oatmeal

This deliciously creamy oatmeal is hiding a secret: it’s absolutely packed with protein! Add your favorite toppings and mix-ins and this protein oatmeal is the perfect healthy breakfast. 

You want to start your day with a healthy dose of protein. But let's be real: protein powder mixed with water isn't exactly a breakfast to get excited about—and it's definitely not the cozy kind of breakfast you crave when it's chilly outside.

Solution? This protein oatmeal recipe.

It's loaded with protein thanks to protein powder, eggs, and chia seeds. It’s also mega-creamy, high customizable, and ready in a matter of minutes. Basically, it’s everything you want in a bowl of oatmeal and then some.

Why You’ll Love This Protein Oatmeal Recipe

Here's what makes this breakfast a standout:

• The protein! Okay, let's start with the obvious: there’s a lot of protein in a single bowl of this oatmeal. In fact, you’ll get much more protein per serving in this homemade oatmeal than those expensive protein oatmeal packets—and making it yourself is way cheaper.
• Quick, easy, and convenient. On busy mornings, it can be hard to find the time for breakfast. With this protein oatmeal, you can have a warm and satisfying meal in a snap.
• Room to make it your own. While I love my chocolate protein oatmeal and high protein peanut butter oatmeal, sometimes I want a recipe with a little more versatility. Customize this protein oatmeal by using different flavors of protein powder, stirring in different mix-ins, and garnishing with your favorite toppings. 

What You’ll Need

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to make this healthy breakfast recipe. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page to see the exact amounts for each ingredient.

• Oats – I use old-fashioned oats (also known as rolled oats) for this recipe.
• Protein powder – Any kind you like or have on hand, either flavored or unflavored.
• Chia seeds – Another excellent source of protein! If you’re not a fan of the texture, try hemp seeds instead.
• Water or milk – Milk or plant milk will give you a creamier consistency.
• Eggs – Eggs are a complete protein, which means they contain all nine essential amino acids.
• Mix-ins and toppings – I share some ideas below!

Is It Okay to Have Protein Powder Every Day?

It’s best to ask your doctor or dietician, but generally speaking, it’s fine to have protein powder every day. That said, if you are using protein powder on a daily basis, you’ll want to make sure it’s one without added sugar and one that’s third-party tested for purity.

How to Make Protein Oatmeal

You’re just three simple steps away from a healthy breakfast!

• Simmer. Whisk the oats, protein, chia, and liquid in a small saucepan and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Add the eggs. Beat the eggs in a small bowl, then whisk them into the pan with the oats. 
• Finish. Stir in any mix-ins, then transfer the protein oatmeal to a bowl and top as desired.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips for a perfect bowl of protein oatmeal:

• Adjust the consistency. You can add less liquid if you like your oats thicker, or more for a thinner consistency. (And if you accidentally add too much liquid, you can always add some extra oats to absorb it.)
• Choose quality protein powder. Look for non-GMO and organic ingredients in your protein powder for the healthiest option.
• Add the mix-ins last. Once you take the pan off the heat, you can stir in any mix-ins. Adding them too early will affect their texture, as they’ll absorb more liquid.

Topping and Mix-In Ideas

The possibilities are endless when it comes to flavoring your protein oatmeal. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Fresh fruit such as blueberries, strawberries, apples, or bananas, or dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, and diced apricots.
• Nuts and seeds like almonds, pecans, walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
• Nut butters like peanut butter or almond butter.
• Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, or other spices.
• Healthy sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, stevia, or date syrup.
• Cacao nibs or chopped dark chocolate.

Variations

If you’re not sure about the egg, you can always start with one. I personally don’t find that the egg adds much flavor, but it does change the texture—I think in a good way! You can also add the whites only instead of whole eggs if you prefer.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover protein oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add some extra liquid and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. 

Can I Freeze This Recipe?

Protein oatmeal can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to use, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.

More Healthy Oat Recipes

• Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal
• Blueberry Banana Protein Baked Oatmeal
• Double Chocolate Blended Baked Oatmeal
• Overnight Steel Cut Oats
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Oatmeal