Savory Oats With Egg
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Add as Google Trusted SourceA savory breakfast grain bowl: rolled oats cooked in salted water, topped with a fried egg, avocado, tomatoes and feta. 17g protein and 9g fiber per bowl, ready in 10 minutes.
If you’ve only ever had oatmeal with cinnamon, maple syrup and fruit on top, let me introduce you to savory oatmeal. I know oatmeal with egg and feta might sound a little strange at first, but trust me, it works! Think of it as the breakfast version of a grain bowl: creamy oats topped with a jammy egg, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, briny feta and a dash of hot sauce. It’s such a satisfying way to switch up your usual breakfast routine.
One trick I’ve learned after making this on repeat is to cook the oats in water with a little salt and skip the cinnamon or vanilla you’d normally add. You want a simple, savory base that lets all those delicious toppings shine. And if you’re still craving something sweet, my Greek yogurt oatmeal and pumpkin oatmeal are two of my favorite classics.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Savory Oatmeal Bowl
- Ingredients for Savory Oatmeal
- Savory Oatmeal Bowl Variations
- What Are the Best Oats for Savory Oatmeal?
- How to Make Savory Oatmeal
- Tips for This Savory Oats Recipe
- Savory Oatmeal Topping Ideas
- How to Store Savory Oatmeal with Egg
- Savory Oatmeal Recipe FAQs
- More Oatmeal Recipes You’ll Love
- Savory Oatmeal with Egg Recipe
“Tried this bc I’m looking at healthier breakfast options and I was surprised by how much I liked it. I thought there’s no way I would go for savory oatmeal but I was wrong! I used vegan Parmesan bc I don’t eat dairy. Thx for coming up with this!”
Why You’ll Love This Savory Oatmeal Bowl
- Ready in 10 minutes: Rolled oats cook quickly, and you can make your egg while they simmer. It’s a warm breakfast that fits into a busy morning.
- A satisfying combination: Oats, an egg, avocado and feta bring together fiber, protein and fats, with an estimated 17 grams of protein per bowl.
- Easy to make your own: Try a different cheese or add leftover roasted broccoli for an easy way to use what’s already in your fridge.
- A head start on breakfast: Cook a few servings of the oat base ahead of time, then reheat a portion and add your egg and toppings when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients for Savory Oatmeal
Rolled oats, water and an egg are the three main ingredients for this bowl. From there, feel free to customize your toppings based on your preference and what you have on hand.
- rolled oats – old-fashioned rolled oats give this bowl a creamy base and cook in just 5–7 minutes. Steel-cut oats need a different cooking time and liquid ratio, so don’t substitute them directly.
- water – keeps the base simple so the toppings shine. Vegetable broth also works if you want more savory flavor.
- egg – I love a fried egg with a runny yolk that mixes into the oats, but poached, scrambled or hard-boiled eggs work too.
- feta cheese – adds a salty, tangy bite. Goat cheese or grated parmesan are delicious alternatives.
- grape tomatoes – bring a juicy contrast to the warm oats. Cherry tomatoes work just as well.
- avocado – adds creaminess. Choose a ripe avocado that gives slightly when gently pressed.
- everything bagel seasoning – my favorite finishing touch! The sesame seeds, garlic and onion give the bowl plenty of flavor. My go-to is the Trader Joe’s everything but the bagel seasoning.
- fresh herbs – parsley, chives, cilantro or basil add a fresh finish. Use whichever you have on hand.
- hot sauce – a few dashes bring everything together. I like Cholula, but use your favorite or leave it off for a mild bowl.
Savory Oatmeal Bowl Variations
- Vegan bowl: Replace the egg with a tofu scramble or vegan egg substitute and use a dairy-free cheese option.
- Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Mediterranean-style: Swap the avocado for chopped cucumber and add kalamata olives, fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Keep the tomatoes and feta.
- Southwest-style: Add black beans, sautéed peppers and salsa, and use cheddar instead of feta. Finish with avocado, cilantro and hot sauce.
What Are the Best Oats for Savory Oatmeal?
I reach for rolled oats for an everyday breakfast, but you can make a delicious savory bowl with any of these options:
- Rolled oats: The best balance of creamy and chewy, with enough texture to hold up to the toppings. Use the amounts and cooking method in the recipe card.
- Quick oats: Choose these if you like your oatmeal extra soft. Cook one serving according to the package directions, then finish with the egg and toppings.
- Steel-cut oats: My pick for a heartier, chewier bowl. They take about 10–20 minutes to cook on the stovetop, so they’re also a great option to prep ahead. Follow my steel-cut oats recipe, leaving out the cinnamon, vanilla and sweet toppings.
How to Make Savory Oatmeal
Follow the step-by-step photos below to see how this savory oatmeal recipe comes together. For exact measurements and detailed instructions, check out the recipe card below or jump straight to the recipe.
Step 1: Add the oats, water and a pinch of salt to a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until creamy.
Step 2: Meanwhile, cook your egg however you like. Spoon the oats into a bowl and top with the egg, feta, tomatoes, avocado, everything bagel seasoning and herbs. Finish with pepper and hot sauce, if using.
Tips for This Savory Oats Recipe
- Keep the oats creamy: Oatmeal thickens as it sits. If it gets too thick while you finish the egg, stir in a splash of water before serving.
- Season in stages: Start with a little salt in the oats, then taste after adding the feta and everything bagel seasoning. Both bring saltiness, so you might not need much more.
- Have your toppings ready: Slice the avocado and tomatoes and gather your toppings while the oats cook. That way, you can assemble the bowl while the oats and egg are still warm.
Savory Oatmeal Topping Ideas
Once you’ve tried the egg, avocado and feta combination, here are a few more ways to top your bowl:
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach or leftover roasted sweet potatoes. Readers have enjoyed all three, and Sue paired her sweet potatoes with parmesan and everything bagel seasoning.
- Something crunchy: Sprinkle on toasted pepitas, sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts.
- A different protein: Try baked tofu, chickpeas or crumbled tempeh bacon. A sliced hard-boiled egg is also handy when you already have some in the fridge.
- A little heat: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. One reader used sriracha lime seasoning instead of hot sauce and loved it.
How to Store Savory Oatmeal with Egg
Make ahead: Double or triple the oat base and portion it into individual containers. Keep the toppings separate and cook your egg when you’re ready to eat.
Storage: Refrigerate the cooked oats in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm the oats in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of water to loosen them. Add your freshly cooked egg, avocado and remaining toppings just before serving.
Savory Oatmeal Recipe FAQs
They can be a balanced breakfast, depending on what you add. This bowl combines oats, an egg, avocado, tomatoes and feta, with an estimated 17 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber per serving. Those numbers will change if you use different toppings.
Absolutely! Think of the oats as a grain-bowl base. Keep the egg and toppings as written, or make a heartier meal with black beans, chickpeas or roasted vegetables. It’s an easy way to use what’s already in your fridge.
Yes! Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they can come into contact with gluten during processing. If you’re gluten-free, be sure to choose oats labeled gluten-free. I love using Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free organic rolled oats.
Start by cooking your oats with water and a pinch of salt instead of adding sweeteners. From there, you can add savory toppings like a fried egg, sautéed veggies, avocado, cheese or your favorite seasonings. Check out my topping ideas above for even more combinations!
Absolutely! While most people think of oatmeal as a sweet breakfast, it’s just as delicious savory. Think of it like a grain bowl, but with creamy oats as the base. Instead of cinnamon and sweetener, I cook my oats with a pinch of salt and add toppings like eggs, avocado, veggies and cheese. It’s such a satisfying way to switch up your usual breakfast!
More Oatmeal Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below.
Savory Oatmeal with Egg
Ingredients
- ½ cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup water
- 1 cooked egg
- 2 Tablespoons feta or grated parmesan cheese, dairy-free, if needed
- 3-4 grape tomatoes, halved
- ¼ avocado
- Everything But The Bagel seasoning
- Sea salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, parsley, for topping
- Cholula hot sauce, optional
Instructions
- Add the oats, water and a little sea salt to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes, until creamy and the consistency you like. Remove from the heat.½ cup old fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup water
- Meanwhile, cook your egg however you like. Fried or poached is my favorite.1 cooked egg
- Spoon the oats into a bowl and top with the cooked egg, cheese, tomatoes, avocado, everything bagel seasoning and fresh herbs. Add pepper and hot sauce, if using, and enjoy warm.2 Tablespoons feta or grated parmesan cheese, 3-4 grape tomatoes, ¼ avocado, Everything But The Bagel seasoning, Sea salt and pepper, Fresh herbs, Cholula hot sauce
Video
Notes
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the cooking time and liquid amount listed. For gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats.
- Egg swaps: soft boiled, scrambled or poached all work. For vegan, top with tofu scramble.
- Make ahead and storage: Refrigerate the cooked oat base for 3–4 days. Reheat with a splash of water and add a freshly cooked egg and toppings.
- Dietary swaps: For dairy-free, omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese. For vegan, also replace the egg with tofu scramble or chickpeas.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like This Recipe? Rate & Comment Below!
I tried this today and it was great! I had to substitute some ingredients that I didn’t have on hand, but I’m looking forward to making it again.
Great! I am so glad this recipe turned out great for you, Ang. Thanks for sharing your review + star rating, I truly appreciate it!
I was very sceptical for some time since I always have sweet porridge… this blew me away with how delicious it was!!!! Definitely worth trying if you like porridge and eggs❤️
WOO! This seriously makes me so happy, Mia. I am glad you gave this recipe a try and are loving it. Thank you for sharing your review + star rating, I truly appreciate it!
Customized with what I had on hand. While oatmeal cooked in microwave, I sautéed an egg with some leftover roasted sweet potato cubes. Topped with EBTB and parm. DELISH!
Oh YES! This sounds absolutely delicious, simply the best, Sue. Thank you for sharing your review & star rating, I truly appreciate it!
Tried this bc I’m looking at healthier breakfast options and I was surprised by how much I liked it. I thought there’s no way I would go for savory oatmeal but I was wrong! I used vegan Parmesan bc I don’t eat dairy. Thx for coming up with this!
Yay! I am so happy that you are loving this recipe, Sharon! Thank you so coming back and sharing your review, I really appreciate it!
Outstanding!
Thank you, Katie! So glad you are enjoying this recipe. Thanks for the review!
I’ve been wanting to try savory oatmeal and this recipe did not disappoint!!! I used sriracha lime seasoning instead of hot sauce and it was delish!!! Thanks for the great recipes Brittany.
Woo! This makes me so happy to hear, Shelley! I love the addition of sriracha lime. Thanks for the review. I so appreciate it!
Hi! Just tried this recipe but subbed the avocado for cooked spinach, plus I didn’t have the everything seasoning. I even added hot sauce!! This was delicious. 🙂 i think i slightly overcooked the egg so some of the yolk was slightly firm and not runny. First time trying a savory oatmeal recipe and I liked it alot!
So glad you enjoyed this recipe, Danny! Thanks for the review. I so appreciate it.
I made a version of this today with whatever random ingredients i could rally together. Started with tomato paste, seasoned frozen veggies like onion and peppers, Mexican spices in olive oil, added the quick oats and water, salt and pepper, mixed in cheese. Topped with an over medium egg with hot sauce. So creamy yum!
Ohh sounds yummy!! So glad you tried and loved this recipe, Christal.
I loved this! I’ve wanted to make savory oats for a long time but was afraid. This is delish! The ingredients are almost identical to a lentil bowl I enjoy as well.
Ah yay!! So pumped to hear you enjoyed this savory oatmeal, Amy. Thanks for trying out the recipe and I really appreciate the review!
My son was asking for savory oatmeal and I wanted something mostly vegetarian. This was delicious! I added in a half cup o spinach to each serving to increase the nutritional value. I did briefly cook the spinach so it wilted.
Oh yay!! So glad this recipe was a hit. Thanks for making it and for coming back to leave a review. I so appreciate it!
Loved it!! Oatmeal is my “go to” daily breakfast. Saw this and thought great change up!! I was right!
Thank you!
Yay!! So glad you enjoyed this oatmeal recipe, Bob. Thanks for giving it a try and for coming back to leave a comment + star rating. I so appreciate it!
So dang good! I added some mushrooms and chives on top. I definitely lean towards sweet oatmeal so I was hesitant but it was awesome!
Yay!! So glad you enjoyed this oatmeal, Kalli. Thanks for giving my recipe a try and for coming back to leave a comment and star rating. I so appreciate it. <3
I was very intrigued when I saw this recipe yesterday and realized I had all the ingredients to make it… and let me say, I was NOT disappointed! This is SO delicious, and a nice change from the everyday oatmeal!
Ahh yay!! That makes me so happy to hear, Andrea! Thanks for giving my recipe a try and for coming back to leave a comment and star rating. I really appreciate it. <3
Savory oatmeal sounds odd at first, but this is SO good! Thank you for sharing your gift of recipe creation with us!
Ahh this makes me so happy to hear, Brenda!! Thanks for giving this recipe a try, I’m so glad you enjoyed it. And thanks for coming back to leave a comment and star rating. I so appreciate it. <3
To say this recipe is delicious is an understatement. This recipe is out of this world, it is sooooooo yummy! The creamy oatmeal with the splash of Parmesan cheese makes the dish for sure! You almost feel like you’re eating cheesy grits! Omg so so good! This is a new staple for sure! Thank you for this recipe!
Woo-hoo!! That makes me so happy to hear, Erin. 🙂 I’m really glad that you tried and enjoyed this recipe. And thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment and star rating. I so appreciate it! The ratings are super helpful to other readers.
This is such an amazing breakfast bowl! I used a hard boiled egg because I was short on time, but a fried egg with a runny yolk would be even better. This oatmeal is just such an awesome idea!
I was planning on doing my usual banana and nut butter oatmeal this morning but I think I will finally take the leap on savory oatmeal because that looks SO good!