This savory baked oats recipe is a nutritious, hearty dish filled with the flavors of roasted vegetables, creamy cheese, and a satisfying oat base. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a great way to start or end your day. The combination of gouda, parmesan, and Italian seasoning makes each bite flavorful and comforting.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
Oat Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats (180g)
- ¼ cup ground oats or oat flour (25g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Liquid:
- 1 cup milk (240ml)
- 1 cup water (240ml)
Eggs and Seasoning:
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheesy Goodness:
- ½ cup grated gouda cheese (50g)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (20g)
Savory Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced (about 130g)
- ⅓ cup frozen peas (50g)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (80g)
Instructions:
- Sautéing the Veggies:
- Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Zucchini and Peas Join the Party:
- Add the sliced zucchini and frozen peas to the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the zucchini is slightly tender-crisp.
- Toasting the Oats:
- Pour the rolled oats into the pan with the cooked vegetables. Toast the oats for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and slightly golden brown.
- Cooling Down:
- Remove the pan from heat and let the oat mixture cool slightly to prevent the eggs from scrambling when added later.
- Creating the Wet Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, water, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, grated gouda cheese, ground oats, and baking powder.
- Combining the Stars:
- Add the cooled oat and vegetable mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Let the combined mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the liquid.
- Baking Time:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with butter. Pour the oat mixture into the prepared dish.
- From Batter to Baked Delight:
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The top should be slightly golden brown.
- Cooling and Slicing:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a side of fresh salad for a light, nutritious meal.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Top with additional cheese and fresh herbs for a cheesy, savory finish.
- Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying brunch.
- Serve with a protein of choice, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to make it a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what’s in season or your preferences (e.g., spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers).
- Make sure the oat mixture cools slightly before adding eggs to avoid scrambling them.
- You can prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving for a hassle-free meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats provide a great source of soluble fiber, promoting heart health and digestion.
- Eggs and cheese add protein and calcium, essential for muscle and bone health.
- The vegetables, particularly zucchini and peas, are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This savory baked oats dish is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious, filling option for any time of day. The combination of cheesy goodness, tender vegetables, and fragrant Italian seasoning creates a comforting, delicious meal that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Conclusion:
Savory baked oats are a versatile and easy meal that you can prepare ahead of time or whip up in just under an hour. With the perfect balance of creamy cheese, hearty oats, and sautéed veggies, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite side dishes for a well-rounded meal. Give this recipe a try for a satisfying, savory treat that’s both healthy and delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, almond milk or any other non-dairy milk can be used as a substitute. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. - How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and flax eggs as a substitute for the eggs. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it the next day. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. - Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen peas and other frozen vegetables work great in this recipe. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. - How do I reheat this?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave in individual portions. - Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked bacon, sausage, or chicken can be added for extra protein and flavor.