Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Oatmeal is fast, filling, and customizable. It’s a great choice for busy mornings or relaxed weekends alike. The strawberries melt slightly into the warm oats, creating a fruity flavor throughout the bowl, while optional toppings like nuts, seeds, or a swirl of yogurt make it even more nourishing. Plus, it’s easy to make dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan depending on your needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Oatmeal
- Old-fashioned rolled oats
- Milk or water (or a combination)
- Fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
- Maple syrup or honey (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Sliced fresh strawberries
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt
- Nut butter
- Shredded coconut
Directions
- In a saucepan, combine oats, milk or water, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until the oats are tender and creamy.
- Add chopped strawberries and cook for 2–3 more minutes, until softened and slightly melted into the oatmeal.
- Stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract, if using.
- Spoon into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as sliced strawberries, nuts, seeds, or yogurt.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Overnight Strawberry Oats: Combine all ingredients in a jar and let sit overnight in the fridge. Serve chilled or warm.
- Baked Strawberry Oatmeal: Mix oats with milk, strawberries, sweetener, and baking powder, then bake in a dish for 25–30 minutes.
- Strawberry Banana Oatmeal: Add mashed banana to the oats while cooking for extra creaminess and natural sweetness.
- Strawberry Protein Oats: Stir in a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of milk or water and microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm on the stovetop until heated through.
- Do not freeze oatmeal with fresh fruit, as the texture can change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Add them during cooking and allow a few extra minutes for them to heat through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is completely gluten-free.
Can I make this in the microwave?
Yes. Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
How do I make it creamier?
Use whole milk or a splash of cream, or stir in a spoonful of yogurt or nut butter before serving.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, cook the oatmeal ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a little milk or water when ready to eat.
What kind of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for texture. Quick oats cook faster but may be mushier. Steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time.
How can I add more protein?
Add nut butter, protein powder, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt after cooking for a protein-packed meal.
Can I sweeten it without sugar?
Yes, use mashed bananas, applesauce, or simply rely on the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries.
How do I make it more filling?
Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or extra toppings like nuts and yogurt for more fiber and protein.
What milk works best?
Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all add different flavors and creaminess.
Conclusion
Strawberry Oatmeal is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a healthy, hearty breakfast. With juicy berries, warm oats, and endless topping options, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and energizing. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this dish is a go-to favorite that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
PrintStrawberry Oatmeal
Strawberry Oatmeal is a warm, hearty breakfast made with creamy oats and sweet strawberries. It’s quick, nutritious, and customizable with your favorite toppings—perfect for busy mornings or a cozy start to your day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats
- Milk or water (or a combination)
- Fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
- Maple syrup or honey (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- Sliced fresh strawberries (optional topping)
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional topping)
- Chopped nuts: almonds, walnuts, pecans (optional topping)
- Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt (optional topping)
- Nut butter (optional topping)
- Shredded coconut (optional topping)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine oats, milk or water, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until the oats are tender and creamy.
- Add chopped strawberries and cook for 2–3 more minutes, until softened and slightly melted into the oatmeal.
- Stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract, if using.
- Spoon into bowls and top with sliced strawberries, nuts, seeds, yogurt, or any preferred toppings.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable—just cook slightly longer.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based milk and maple syrup.
- Add mashed banana for extra sweetness and creaminess.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk or water.
- Customize with toppings like nut butter, coconut, or protein powder for a nutrition boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
