Zucchini with Oatmeal Recipe
If you’re craving a breakfast that’s both comforting and nourishing, Zucchini with Oatmeal is about to become your new favorite way to start the day. This cozy bowl blends creamy oats, sweet maple, and a hidden veggie boost from zucchini for a breakfast that tastes more decadent than it has any right to. Whether you’re trying to sneak in extra veggies, cut back on sugar, or just switch up your morning routine, Zucchini with Oatmeal delivers on flavor, nutrition, and pure satisfaction. Let’s dive in and make the most of this wholesome, veggie-packed breakfast!

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Zucchini with Oatmeal lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a special role in creating a creamy, subtly sweet breakfast with a pop of green goodness. Don’t skip or skimp; these humble pantry staples work together for a bowl that’s anything but boring!
- Rolled oats (1/2 cup): The hearty base that gives your bowl its chewy, satisfying texture—try steel-cut for extra bite or quick oats for a faster fix.
- Milk, dairy or plant-based (1 cup): Adds creaminess and richness—almond, oat, or classic whole milk all work wonders here.
- Finely grated zucchini, squeezed dry (1/2 cup): The secret veggie star! Squeeze well so your oatmeal stays thick, not watery.
- Maple syrup or honey (1 tablespoon): For that touch of natural sweetness—choose your favorite or mix and match!
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a hint of spice, making every bite cozy and fragrant.
- Vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with a mellow, bakery-style aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Just a bit brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Optional toppings: Chopped nuts, sliced banana, extra maple syrup, or nut butter—get creative and make each bowl your own.
How to Make Zucchini with Oatmeal
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you turn on the stove, get everything ready! Measure out your rolled oats and milk, finely grate your zucchini (then squeeze out as much liquid as you can with a kitchen towel), and decide on your favorite toppings. This step keeps your cooking smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Combine and Heat
In a small saucepan, toss in the oats, milk, grated zucchini, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and that all-important pinch of salt. Give everything a good stir—this helps the flavors start mingling right away. Place your pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t bubble over.
Step 3: Simmer to Creamy Perfection
Once you see those first bubbles, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently as the Zucchini with Oatmeal thickens and the oats soften, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for a creamy, porridge-like consistency—thick but still spoonable.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Take the pan off the heat and let your Zucchini with Oatmeal sit for a minute. This little pause lets it finish thickening and gives the flavors time to meld. Then, spoon into your favorite bowl and get ready for toppings!
Step 5: Add Toppings and Enjoy
Now comes the fun part—pile on your favorite toppings! Whether it’s a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, a swirl of nut butter, or a few slices of banana, this is your moment to customize.
How to Serve Zucchini with Oatmeal

Garnishes
The right garnish can take your Zucchini with Oatmeal from simple to stunning. Try a mix of toasted walnuts, a drizzle of extra maple syrup, or even a dusting of cinnamon on top. For a pop of color and freshness, add a few sliced strawberries or blueberries.
Side Dishes
Pair your bowl with a side of Greek yogurt for extra protein, or serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea for a balanced, leisurely breakfast. A small bowl of fresh fruit salad or a green smoothie also makes a lovely, light accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Zucchini with Oatmeal in a clear glass jar for a fun, layered look—perfect for meal prep or breakfast on the go. For brunch guests, try making a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own bowl. Kids love it when you add fun shapes with banana slices or sprinkle on colorful berries!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Zucchini with Oatmeal, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy mornings when you need breakfast ready in a snap.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze cooked Zucchini with Oatmeal! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply spoon your oatmeal into a saucepan with a splash of milk or water to loosen it up, and warm gently over low heat, stirring until creamy and hot. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make Zucchini with Oatmeal vegan?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based milk, like almond or oat, and opt for maple syrup instead of honey. The result is just as creamy and delicious.
Do I have to peel the zucchini?
No need! The skin is thin and softens during cooking, adding extra fiber and a lovely fleck of green color. Just be sure to wash your zucchini well before grating.
Will my oatmeal taste like zucchini?
Not at all—the zucchini blends right in, adding moisture and nutrients without overpowering the flavor. Most people won’t even notice it’s there, especially with the warmth of cinnamon and vanilla.
Can I use other sweeteners?
Definitely! Brown sugar, coconut sugar, or agave syrup all work well. Adjust to taste depending on how sweet you like your breakfast.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! Zucchini with Oatmeal is perfect for making ahead. Prepare a batch, portion into jars, and keep in the fridge for easy, grab-and-go breakfasts all week long.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s a little out of the ordinary but still easy, nourishing, and delicious, give Zucchini with Oatmeal a try. It’s the kind of feel-good meal that might just become a new staple in your morning routine—so grab your oats and zucchini, and enjoy every creamy, veggie-powered bite!
Print
Zucchini with Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A wholesome and delicious breakfast recipe combining the goodness of rolled oats with the subtle flavor and nutrition of zucchini. This creamy oatmeal is lightly sweetened with maple syrup and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, making it a perfect way to start your day with a hidden veggie boost.
Ingredients
Oatmeal Base
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup finely grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Chopped nuts
- Sliced banana
- Extra maple syrup
- Nut butter
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, finely grated zucchini, maple syrup or honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Cook the Oatmeal: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the oats are tender and the mixture achieves a thick, creamy texture.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the oatmeal to sit for about a minute to thicken further. Spoon the oatmeal into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, sliced banana, extra maple syrup, or a drizzle of nut butter for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use quick oats if you want a faster cooking time, or steel-cut oats for a more textured and hearty oatmeal; adjust cooking times accordingly.
- This recipe is a great way to sneak vegetables into your breakfast routine.
- For an extra boost of protein, consider stirring in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or protein powder after cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg