When you think of oats, you probably think of a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal. But oats are quite versatile, and can be enjoyed beyond just breakfast. In fact, oats can be transformed into everything from crispy granola and savory plant-based burgers, to flour for baking and even creamy homemade oat milk. They can add texture and heartiness to baked goods like muffins, cookies, and breads, while also acting as a great binder in meatballs and veggie burgers, too. Believe it or not, oats can even be used in unexpected ways, like being blended into smoothies for added creaminess or getting toasted for a crunchy topping on salads and soups. Whether sweet or savory, oats are a pantry staple that can enhance more dishes than you might expect.
But beyond their versatility, oats are packed with plenty of nutrients that make them a wise addition to any meal. Their fiber helps lower cholesterol and keep you full, while steady energy release prevents mid-morning crashes (that’s probably why so many of us start the day with oats). And while a bowl of oatmeal will always be a classic breakfast choice, there are so many tasty and creative ways to get the most out of oats.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
This overnight oats recipe transforms the classic peanut butter and jelly combo into a nutritious, make-ahead breakfast. Creamy peanut butter, sweet jam, and hearty oats soak together overnight for a rich, satisfying texture. It’s an easy, delicious way to start the day with minimal effort.
Black Bean Oat Burger
Using rolled oats in a black bean burger may seem odd, but since everything is finely blended using a food processor, the oats actually work as a flour alternative, which helps bind the patties together. Pair these burgers with homemade fries, a crunchy salad, or a bag of chips for ease.
Salmon Patties
These salmon patties make the most of pantry staples, turning canned salmon into a crispy, flavorful treat. With a mix of breadcrumbs, herbs, and a squeeze of citrus, they’re light yet filling—perfect for a quick meal that tastes like it took hours to make. Serve them with a tangy sauce or fresh veggies for an easy, elevated dish.
Blackberry and Pear Breakfast Crisp
Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire Spollen
Who says you can’t enjoy breakfast for dessert, especially when it’s a homemade crisp with juicy blackberries and tender pears, topped with a crunchy, cinnamon-spiced oat topping? Whether you’re trying to convince your kids to eat breakfast, or you just need a new morning routine, this crisp will do the trick.
Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies
Antonis Achilleos
These carrot cake sandwich cookies take things up a notch with a hint of oat in every bite. Soft, spiced carrot cake cookies are sandwiched with creamy, tangy frosting, blending comfort and crunch in the best way. It’s a cozy, classic treat that brings all the flavor of carrot cake, but with a healthy twist.
Apple-Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal
Fred Hardy II, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster
This apple-pumpkin baked oatmeal is a versatile dish that works as both a hearty breakfast or a sweet treat. Packed with cinnamon-spiced pumpkin, tender apples, and wholesome oats, it’s the perfect balance of cozy and comforting. Whether you’re fueling up for the day, or satisfying your sweet tooth, this is the ultimate fall-inspired delight!
Homemade Oat Milk
Tatiana Bralnina/Getty Images
Making oat milk at home is as easy as tossing oats and water in a blender—seriously, it’s that simple. In just minutes, you can create a creamy, dairy-free milk that tastes better than anything you would buy at the store, and with fewer ingredients, too. Plus, with just a hint of sweetness, it’s the perfect affordable, homemade alternative to add to your coffee, smoothies, or just enjoy on its own.
Savory Seedy Granola
Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
This simple, savory granola proves that homemade is always better—more flavor, more crunch, and way less expensive than store-bought. Packed with sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and a punch of bold spices, it’s a crunchy, addictive topping for salads, soups, or snacking straight from the jar. Once you make your first batch, you’ll be whipping up homemade granola week after week.
Berry Baked Oatmeal
Easy to make and great for meal prep, this berry baked oatmeal is a warm and comforting breakfast option to nosh on all week long. And while it feels like a treat, the oats and fruit will help keep you full for hours. Serve it fresh out of the oven, or reheat it for a quick, delicious start to your day.
Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies
These carrot cake breakfast cookies bring all the cozy flavors of the classic dessert into a nutritious, grab-and-go bite. Made with hearty oats, warm spices, and just the right amount of sweetness, they’re soft, chewy, and totally satisfying. Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up, they make for a delicious, wholesome treat.
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