Name: Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup dry quick-cooking steel cut oats; 3/4 cup water; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons shredded white cheddar cheese (add more if you like); 1 teaspoon coconut oil, divided; 1/4 cup diced red pepper; 2 tablespoons finely chopped onions; 1 large egg; Chopped walnuts; Sliced green onions; Za’atar

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Let me tell you about one of my favorite quick breakfasts that feels way more special than your average bowl of oatmeal—this Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe. It’s like comforting breakfast hug meets savory goodness, perfect for those mornings when you want something hearty yet easy to pull together. Trust me, once you try this combo of nutty steel cut oats, sharp cheddar, and that golden fried egg, you’ll understand why it’s become my go-to.

This recipe works wonderfully when you’re craving something filling but not heavy, or if you want to shake up the usual sweet oatmeal routine. The cheddar melts into the oats creating this luscious, creamy texture, while the fried egg adds richness and protein that keeps you going for hours. I often make it on busy mornings but also serve it when friends drop by, and it always gets compliments!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing the right ingredients here really makes all the difference. I like to use quick-cooking steel cut oats because they have a lovely chewy texture that holds up well with savory toppings. And don’t skip on the white cheddar – it adds that sharp, tangy bite that elevates this oatmeal from bland to brilliant.

Quick-cooking steel cut oats: Unlike rolled oats, these offer a nuttier texture that’s perfect for savory dishes.
Water: The base liquid; simple but essential for perfectly cooked oats.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings but key to bringing out flavors in the oats and toppings.
Shredded white cheddar cheese: Melted into the oats for creamy, tangy richness—feel free to add extra if you’re a cheese lover like me.
Coconut oil: Divided use here; adds a subtle nuttiness and helps fry your veggies and egg.
Diced red pepper: Gives a sweet crunch and bright color to the dish.
Finely chopped onions: Adds depth and a gentle savory note when sautéed.
Large egg: The star topping—fried to your liking with a runny yolk is my personal favorite.
Optional toppings: I love chopped walnuts for crunch, sliced green onions for freshness, and za’atar for a little Middle Eastern flair.

Variations

One of the things I enjoy most about this Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. You can mix and match toppings and tweaks to suit your mood or pantry.

Vegetarian variation: Swap the egg for sautéed mushrooms or a dollop of ricotta for a comforting twist—I’ve done this when I wanted extra veggies in the morning.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes on top for a fiery flavor boost, which I sometimes crave on chilly mornings.
Vegan adaptation: Skip the cheese and egg and add sautéed tofu cubes with nutritional yeast instead; it’s surprisingly satisfying.
Seasonal veggies: Swap red peppers for roasted squash or fresh spinach depending on what’s fresh—I love using whatever’s in season.

How to Make Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Oats to Creamy Perfection

Start by bringing 3/4 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Then stir in your 1/4 cup of quick-cooking steel cut oats with a pinch of salt. Let them simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the oats absorb the water and reach a creamy consistency. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t stick to the bottom, and don’t be afraid to add a splash more water if it starts to dry out too soon.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

While your oats cook, heat half a teaspoon of coconut oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced red peppers and chopped onions. Cook them until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften but still retain a bit of crunch, about 3-4 minutes. This step brings out a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory oats.

Step 3: Fry the Egg Just Right

In the same skillet (add the remaining coconut oil if needed), crack in your egg. Fry it sunny-side up until the whites are set but the yolk still jiggles a little when you shake the pan—that’s the magic spot for adding creaminess once you break into it. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like your egg more cooked through, go ahead and flip it gently for a minute.

Step 4: Mix in the Cheese and Combine

Remove your oats from heat and stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese while the oats are hot. The cheese will melt beautifully, making the oats extra creamy and flavorful. Then fold in the sautéed peppers and onions for that perfect bite every time.

How to Serve Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe

Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I always sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for a little crunch, and sliced green onions add a fresh, oniony pop that balances the richness nicely. Za’atar is my secret weapon—it adds an earthy, herby note that takes this simple dish to the next level. Don’t be shy with your garnishes; they make the dish look beautiful and taste even better.

Side Dishes

When I serve this, I like pairing it with a simple mixed greens salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to keep things light. If you’re having it for dinner, roasted cherry tomatoes or a crispy bacon side work wonders alongside, giving a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For special breakfasts or brunches, I’ve tried serving this savory oatmeal layered in clear glass bowls to show off the colors and textures. Drizzling a bit of chili oil or herb-infused oil over the top adds a fancy touch. If you’re feeding a crowd, setting out toppings buffet-style lets everyone customize, which I find super fun and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftover cooked oats without the fried egg in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, I can quickly reheat and add a fresh egg later. The oats stay creamy for 2-3 days, so making a batch ahead is totally doable for busy mornings.

Freezing

Freezing this recipe is a bit tricky because of the egg and cheese, but the plain cooked oats freeze beautifully. I portion them into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just add your toppings fresh after reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the oats back up—microwaving works too, but can dry them out. Then I fry a fresh egg to place on top. This method keeps the dish tasting fresh and keeps that satisfying creamy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap quick-cooking rolled oats if you want a creamier, softer texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time—it’ll take less time to cook than steel cut oats, and the texture will be milder but still delicious with the cheddar and egg.
What’s the best way to get a runny yolk on my fried egg?

Cook your egg sunny-side up over medium-low heat and cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two. This traps steam and gently cooks the whites without hardening the yolk. Keep a close eye so the yolk stays perfectly runny!
Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! Skip the cheddar and egg, and instead add sautéed tofu or tempeh for protein. Nutritional yeast is a great addition to add cheesy flavor, and you can use olive or coconut oil to sauté your veggies.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, prepping the savory oats ahead is super convenient. Store cooked oats separately from eggs and toppings, then assemble and reheat quickly when ready to eat for a fresh, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Oatmeal with Cheddar and Fried Egg Recipe is one of those hidden gems that turns everyday oats into something exciting and indulgent without much fuss. I love how it satisfies my comfort food cravings while still being nutritious and speedy to make. If you haven’t tried savory oats before, this is the perfect introduction—easy, tasty, and endlessly customizable. So go ahead, give it a whirl, and make your mornings a little brighter!