The Best Vegan Oatmeal

Rolled oats, frozen blueberries, dairy-free milk and your favorite toppings make this vegan oatmeal a simple recipe that can be prepared in 10 minutes on Sunday evening and enjoyed throughout the week! 

This easy vegan oatmeal recipe was introduced to me by my sister-in-law who was able to heal her gut over time just by changing the way she ate. This recipe is easy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. The best part is that even kids enjoy it (with the exception of my one child who hates oatmeal).

Always stock up on oatmeal when it goes on sale! There are so many delicious ways to prepare it and it is affordable. Easy Overnight Oats are still one of my favorite make ahead breakfast ideas, but these last new months of working to heal my gut has taught me that cooked foods are easier on the stomach first thing in the morning.

Oatmeal is perfect for busy mornings and even though it is extremely easy to make, we could all use a refresher!  Here is your cheat sheet to making oatmeal!

If you’re looking for other breakfast ideas, check out our breakfast burritos, oatmeal breakfast cookies or this pumpkin baked oatmeal.

How to make Oatmeal – Vegan Oatmeal

There are three types of oats and each one has a slightly different cooking method. For the most part, oats are gluten-free but they can be cross-contaminated in the factory, so if you need gluten-free oats, make sure the container actually says certified gluten-free oats.

Old Fashion Oats (Rolled Oats)– This is the one I prefer. It is easy to cook and gentle on the stomach!

• Heat 1 Cup of plant-based milk in a small saucepan
• Once boiling, add 1/2 cup of oats
• Lower heat and cover. Cook for 5 minutes

Instant Oats (Quick Oats)– Instant oats cook even faster than Old Fashioned Oats and are a great option if you want to microwave them instead of cooking them on the stovetop.

• Add one cup of water or plant-based milk to a microwaveable bowl
  • Tip: Use a tall bowl because the oats will bubble and possibly boil over while cooking
• Add 1/2 cups of oats
• Microwave for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes
• Use care taking it out of the microwave. It will be very hot

Steel Cut Oats – Steel cut oats are higher in fiber than other oats and lower on the glycemic index. It can also be tougher on the stomach for those with IBS or digestive issues.

• Add 1-1/2 cups plant-based milk to a small saucepan
• Once boiling, lower the heat and add 1/4 cup of oats
• Cover and cook 12-30 minutes or until soft

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED

• 1 cup Plant-Based Milk – I have tried Almond milk, Oat milk, and Coconut milk and they’re all delicious. Water also works, it just won’t be as creamy.
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned Oats – Instant oats or Steel cut oats will work
• 1/2 Ripe Banana – This is the only sweetener so you can use a whole banana if you like it even sweeter
• 2 Tbsp soaked chia seeds – Soak 1 Tablespoon of Chia Seeds with 1/4 cup nut milk (soak overnight)
• 1 Tbsp Almond Butter or Peanut Butter
• Blueberries or fruit – Blueberries are my favorites but any frozen or fresh fruit will work
• Nuts (optional)
• Any Toppings of choice

Step by Step Vegan Oatmeal

How To Make Oatmeal – Vegan Oatmeal Recipe

Once you have all your ingredients, it’s time to prepare.

The night before:

The chia seeds will need to soak overnight. In a small dish, add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds and 1/2 cup of plant-based milk. Cover and place in the fridge overnight. This will last all week so you can use it every morning.

The next morning:

I like to make a fresh bowl of oatmeal every morning, but it can be made ahead of time. I would recommend making up to 3 servings at one time to keep it manageable. It can become sticky and dense if you make too much, though it is possible. Just heat it up in the microwave and add a little more milk as necessary.

Place half of a banana in a bowl and mash it with your fork. I try to make it as mashed as possible but it is ok to have some chunks in it.

Add the chia seeds, almond butter, and blueberries to the bananas. Add the cooked oatmeal and mix everything well. Serve and enjoy!

Can you freeze oatmeal?

Batch cooking and freezing meals is an easy way to eat healthy. I’m working from home now and ironically it means I have even less time for breakfast and lunch. I’m logging on early and taking shorter lunch breaks. Having premade oatmeal keeps me from reaching for the chips!

I am in love with Souper Cubes. The one cup size is perfect for oatmeal. Just fill each cube about 3/4 full and freeze. When you reheat it, add a splash of milk or water and microwave until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oatmeal

Other Healthy Breakfast Recipes to try:

• Healthy Fall Pumpkin Oatmeal
• Baked Oatmeal Cups with Bananas and Chocolate Chips
• Vegan Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
• Turkey Breakfast Sausage
• Pumpkin Chaffles
• Blueberry Smoothie Bowl
• Peanut Butter Toast With Honey and Cocoa Nibs
• What’s for Breakfast? 10 Whole Food Recipes