These savory oatmeal and cheese muffins are a delightful and nutritious option for breakfast, a snack, or even a light lunch. Packed with cottage cheese, mozzarella, and fresh vegetables like arugula and cherry tomatoes, these muffins offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures. The addition of oatmeal provides a hearty base, while the herbs and cheeses add a rich, savory taste. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a quick and healthy snack, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Oatmeal: 1 cup – Provides a hearty, fiber-rich base for the muffins.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the overall flavor of the muffins.
• Dry Garlic: 1 teaspoon – Adds a subtle, savory garlic flavor.
• Italian Herbs: 1 teaspoon – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to add an aromatic touch.
• Cottage Cheese: 1 cup – Adds creaminess and protein to the muffins.
• Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): ½ cup – Melts beautifully, adding a gooey texture.
• Eggs: 3 large – Binds the ingredients together and provides structure to the muffins.
• Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon – Adds moisture and a mild, nutty flavor.
• Arugula (chopped): 1 cup – Brings a peppery, fresh flavor to the muffins.
• Green Onions (finely chopped): 2 – Adds a mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes (halved): 1 cup – Adds a burst of sweetness and juiciness.
• Parmesan Cheese (grated): ½ cup – Adds a salty, umami-rich flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, for topping): ½ cup – Creates a deliciously cheesy topping.
• Italian Herbs (for topping): 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavor of the cheesy topping.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature before baking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dry garlic, and 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the dry ingredients are well-distributed.
3. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
   • Add 1 cup of cottage cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 3 eggs to the dry mixture. Stir until all ingredients are fully combined into a thick batter.
4. Incorporate Vegetables and Oil:
   • Stir in 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, 1 cup of chopped arugula, 2 finely chopped green onions, and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Mix until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
   • Spoon the mixture into a muffin tin lined with paper liners or greased with a little oil. Fill each muffin cup to about three-quarters full to allow room for the muffins to rise.
6. Add the Toppings:
   • Sprinkle the top of each muffin with ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and a pinch of Italian herbs. This will create a flavorful, cheesy topping as the muffins bake.
7. Bake:
   • Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. The muffins are ready when they turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

Tips for Success

1. Customizing Ingredients:
   • Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even swapping the mozzarella with another cheese like feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
2. Storage:
   • These muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They also freeze well, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve these muffins with a side salad for a light lunch or enjoy them on their own as a quick breakfast on the go. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread.
4. Egg-Free Option:
   • If you’re looking to make these muffins egg-free, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the batter.
5. Gluten-Free Option:
   • To make these muffins gluten-free, use gluten-free oats and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the cheese, are certified gluten-free.

Questions You Might Have

1. Can I use regular rolled oats instead of oatmeal?
   • Yes, regular rolled oats can be used, but the texture might be slightly different. You can pulse them in a blender to break them down slightly for a texture closer to oatmeal.
2. What if I don’t have avocado oil?
   • You can substitute the avocado oil with olive oil or any other neutral-tasting oil you prefer.
3. Can these muffins be made ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! These muffins are great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use.
4. How can I make these muffins more filling?
   • To make these muffins more filling, consider adding a source of protein, such as cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage, into the batter.
5. What pairs well with these muffins?
   • These muffins pair well with a side of fresh fruit, a smoothie, or a simple green salad. They also complement soups and stews as a savory side.

Final Thoughts

Savory oatmeal and cheese muffins are a versatile and nutritious option for any time of day. They combine the wholesomeness of oatmeal with the rich flavors of cheese and fresh vegetables, offering a satisfying bite that’s both delicious and healthy. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheated from the freezer, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!