My vegetable oats recipe is a satisfying, balanced meal that may change how you think about oatmeal. Many people reach for sweet breakfasts, which means vegetables are often overlooked. Rolled oats make a great base for savory toppings—like Indian upma or khichdi—and this version adds protein-rich black beans for an affordable, vegetarian option.
🥣 Vegetable Oats Recipe Ingredients
To make savory oats with vegetables, gather:
- ½ cup rolled oats, dry (old-fashioned oats)
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- ¼ teaspoon each: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1/3 cup black beans (drained)
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 oz / 28 g)
- Savory toppings (optional): soft-boiled egg, avocado, pico de gallo, cilantro, lime wedges
Scroll for a printable recipe card below.
Black beans are a versatile legume that count toward both the vegetable and protein groups on MyPlate. They add fiber and protein to a simple breakfast bowl.
This recipe leans Mexican-inspired, but it’s easy to customize. See the variations below for more vegetable ideas you can use with oats.
😋 How to Make Vegetable Oats
Bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil over medium heat in a small pot.
When the liquid is boiling, stir in the oats, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender. Add more liquid or cook a bit longer if you prefer creamier oats. While the oats cook, prep any toppings you plan to use.
Stir the drained black beans and shredded cheese into the hot oats until the cheese melts. Top with your chosen savory toppings and serve immediately.
Leftovers
Store leftover cooked oatmeal in the refrigerator for 3–4 days in an airtight container to prevent drying. Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1–2 minutes, stirring and adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the texture. You can also freeze plain cooked oatmeal (no toppings) and thaw in the refrigerator for 24–48 hours before reheating.
Vegetable Oatmeal Variations
Try masala oats with mixed vegetables or use cooked leftover veggies on your oatmeal. Good choices include bell peppers, roasted red peppers, cauliflower, cabbage, asparagus, peas, green chiles, chickpeas, spinach, and aromatic herbs. Savory additions such as mushrooms, nutritional yeast, nuts, seeds, dairy, or a splash of chili sauce also work well.
Watch How to Make It!
Vegetable Oats Recipe
Summer Yule
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats, dry (old fashioned oats)
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- salt, to taste
- ⅓ cup canned black beans, drained
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (1 ounce / 28 g)
- savory oatmeal toppings (optional: soft-boiled eggs, avocado, pico de gallo, cilantro, lime wedges)
Instructions
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1. Bring the broth or water to a boil over medium heat.
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2. Add oats and spices (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder) with salt. Cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Adjust liquid for preferred texture. Prepare toppings while oats cook.
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3. Stir in black beans and shredded cheddar until the cheese melts. Top as desired and serve.
Equipment
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Pot
Notes
💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This is a level 1 recipe (may help support fat loss). Vegetable oats are an easy way to add more vegetables to breakfast. Vegetables bring fiber, vitamins, and phytonutrients that support overall nutrition.
The savory approach offers an alternative to sweet oatmeal that often contains added sugars. If you need gluten-free oats, choose certified gluten-free oats because cross-contact can occur during processing.
Are vegetable oats good for weight loss?
Some research suggests that a larger, balanced breakfast can help with appetite control for some people. A hearty bowl of vegetable oats is filling and nutrient-dense, which may help you stay satisfied until your next meal.
Nutrition info is for one serving without optional toppings.
nutrition info disclaimer
All recipes may or may not suit your personal medical needs. Consult a registered dietitian or physician if you need tailored advice.
Nutrition information is an estimate and varies by brand and ingredient choices. Use it as a general guide rather than an exact measure.
Nutrition
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👩🏻🍳 More Oats with Vegetables Recipes
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- Cheese Oatmeal
- Overnight Oats for Weight Gain
- Baked Protein Oatmeal
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