Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe
I want to share one of my go-to comfort breakfasts that’s surprisingly hearty and totally satisfying: Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe. It’s just the right balance of creamy oats, melty sharp cheddar, and that perfectly fried egg on top creating this rich flavor combo that wakes up your taste buds without feeling too heavy.
This recipe has been a game-changer for my morning routine, especially on busy days when you want something quick but still nourishing. If you’re someone who usually thinks oatmeal is just for sweet toppings, this savory twist might surprise you — it feels a bit indulgent but is still wholesome. I’m excited to walk you through it because I know you’ll love how adaptable and easy it is!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to balance creaminess, a little crunch, and big flavor. Quick-cooking steel cut oats provide a nice texture, while sharp white cheddar melts into the oats for a cozy richness. A few simple veggies add color and freshness.
- Quick-cooking steel cut oats: They have a bit more chew than rolled oats, which I love for savory dishes. Plus, they cook up fast!
- Water: The base for cooking your oats. You can substitute part with broth if you want extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning your oats well — don’t skimp here!
- White cheddar cheese: Shredded, it melts beautifully. Feel free to use more if you like your oatmeal extra cheesy.
- Coconut oil: I use this to sauté veggies and fry the egg — it adds a subtle depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Diced red pepper: Adds sweetness and a little crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy oats.
- Finely chopped onions: A must for savoriness; they cook down to sweet, caramelized bits.
- Large egg: The star of the dish — a fried egg with a runny yolk is perfect here.
- Optional toppings (chopped walnuts, sliced green onions, za’atar): These bring crunch, brightness, and a lovely herby note to finish the dish.
Variations
I love tweaking this savory oatmeal depending on what I have stored or my mood. It’s so forgiving — feel free to customize and make it your own comfort dish.
- Swap the cheddar: I’ve tried goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist — both add great creaminess.
- Add greens: Wilted spinach or kale stirred in at the end gives a fresh bite and extra nutrients.
- Make it spicy: Toss in a few chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want some heat.
- Vegan version: Skip the cheese and egg, and sauté mushrooms or add avocado on top for richness.
How to Make Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Oats
Start by bringing 3/4 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir in 1/4 cup of quick-cooking steel cut oats and a pinch of salt. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender but still with some bite — about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye so they don’t stick to the bottom; adding a splash more water if it gets too thick helps keep the texture cozy.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
While your oats cook, heat half a teaspoon of coconut oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red pepper and chopped onions, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté until they’re soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. This little sweet-savory mix elevates the oatmeal from plain to something special.
Step 3: Fry the Egg
In the same skillet, heat the remaining coconut oil over medium heat. Crack in the egg and fry it sunny-side up until the white is set but the yolk is still runny — about 2 to 3 minutes. If you prefer, you can cover the pan briefly for perfectly cooked whites without overcooking the yolk.
Step 4: Combine and Melt the Cheese
Once your oats are cooked, stir in the sautéed veggies and 2 tablespoons of shredded white cheddar cheese. Keep the heat low so the cheese melts smoothly into the creamy oats without clumping. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper here.
Step 5: Assemble Your Dish
Spoon your cheesy savory oatmeal into a cozy bowl, then gently nestle the fried egg on top. Let that golden yolk ooze over the warm oats just before you dig in — trust me, it’s heavenly.
How to Serve Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe
Garnishes
My favorite garnishes are chopped walnuts for crunch, sliced green onions for a fresh bite, and a sprinkle of za’atar for a complex, herby flavor. These little touches add texture and brightness, turning a simple bowl into something you’ll crave again and again.
Side Dishes
Sometimes I pair this savory oatmeal with roasted tomatoes or crispy bacon on the side to round out the meal. A crisp salad or even steamed asparagus makes for a nice lighter contrast as well, if you want to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special weekend brunch, I’ve served this savory oatmeal in ramekins with a drizzle of chili oil and microgreens on top, making it look as impressive as it tastes. It’s a fun way to elevate a simple dish when you want to impress friends or just treat yourself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the egg separate if possible to avoid it turning rubbery. When you want a quick meal later, this breakfast comes together in minutes.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t my favorite option for this savory oatmeal because the texture of the fried egg changes, but you can freeze just the oats themselves in small portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best results.
Reheating
I reheat leftover oats on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen them up. If you have leftovers with the egg, I recommend making a fresh one to keep things tasting bright and fresh. Trust me, a fresh fried egg makes all the difference!
FAQs
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Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats for this savory oatmeal with cheddar and fried egg recipe?
Absolutely! Rolled oats will work and cook faster, but the texture will be softer and creamier compared to steel cut oats, which have a pleasant chew. If you choose rolled oats, just reduce cooking time and watch them carefully so they don’t get mushy.
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What if I don’t like runny yolks on my fried eggs?
No problem at all. Just cook the egg a little longer on medium heat or cover the pan with a lid briefly until the yolk sets to the firmness you prefer. The dish will still be excellent with a fully cooked yolk.
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Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, skip the cheese and egg, and instead sauté mushrooms, spinach, or avocado as toppings. Nutritional yeast sprinkled in can add a cheesy flavor to the oats without dairy.
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Is this savory oatmeal recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The oats and sautéed veggies store well, but fry fresh eggs when you’re ready to eat for the best texture and flavor. You can reheat the oatmeal quickly on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?
While white cheddar is my favorite for its sharpness, you can experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just choose cheeses that melt well and complement the savory oats.
Final Thoughts
I really adore this Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe because it turns something so familiar into a hearty, flavorful meal you’ll look forward to. Whether you need a cozy morning pick-me-up or a simple, nourishing dinner, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Give it a try for your next meal, and I promise you’ll appreciate just how easy and comforting savory oatmeal can be.
Print
Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg combines nutritious steel cut oats with rich cheddar cheese and a perfectly fried egg. Enhanced with sautéed red pepper and onions, and optional toppings like walnuts, green onions, and za’atar, this recipe offers a hearty, flavorful twist on classic oatmeal for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dry quick-cooking steel cut oats
- 3/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons shredded white cheddar cheese (add more if desired)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil, divided
- 1/4 cup diced red pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onions
- 1 large egg
Optional Toppings
- Chopped walnuts
- Sliced green onions
- Za’atar
Instructions
- Cook the Oats: In a small saucepan, bring 3/4 cup water to a boil. Add 1/4 cup quick-cooking steel cut oats and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until oats are tender and most of the water is absorbed, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: While the oats cook, heat half of the coconut oil (1/2 tsp) in a small skillet over medium heat. Add diced red pepper and finely chopped onions. Sauté until vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Fry the Egg: In the same skillet, add the remaining coconut oil (1/2 tsp). Crack the large egg into the skillet and fry over medium heat until the white is set and yolk reaches your desired doneness, about 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk, or longer for firmer yolk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Oats and Cheese: Once oats are cooked, stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese while oats are still warm. Mix until cheese is melted and evenly distributed. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the cheesy oats onto a serving plate or bowl. Top with the sautéed red pepper and onions. Place the fried egg on top.
- Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, sliced green onions, and za’atar on top as desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Quick-cooking steel cut oats reduce the usual long cooking time but still provide hearty texture.
- Coconut oil adds subtle richness and a slight sweetness; you can substitute with olive oil or butter if preferred.
- Adjust the cheese quantity to your liking for more or less richness.
- Optional toppings add extra crunch and flavor complexity; omit any to suit dietary needs or preferences.
- For a vegan version, omit the egg and cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
Keywords: savory oatmeal, cheddar oatmeal, fried egg oatmeal, breakfast recipe, steel cut oats, healthy breakfast, gluten free oatmeal
