If you’ve been searching for a breakfast that is just as energizing as it is downright delicious, The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) will win you over in a single bite. This bowl brings the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, the punch of collagen protein, and the comforting creaminess of quick oats together in a matter of minutes. Finished with a crown of fresh strawberries, every spoonful balances natural sweetness with hearty satisfaction. Whether you’re refueling after a workout or simply need a breakfast that sticks with you, The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) is wonderfully simple and irresistibly good.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of ingredients to whip up The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!), and each plays a starring role. These basics come together in minutes to deliver creaminess, plant-powered sweetness, and plenty of protein, while a pop of berries brightens every bowl.
- Quick oats: The ultimate time-saver, soaking up water and thickening in just a minute for creamy, satisfying texture without the wait.
- Banana: Naturally sweet and creamy — mash it with the protein for peak smoothness and flavor that carries through the oatmeal.
- Collagen protein: The stealthy protein boost that’s virtually flavorless and dissolves perfectly in hot oats for a fulfilling meal.
- Fresh strawberries: Adds a burst of tart, fruity freshness and a gorgeous color contrast on top.
- Water: The essential liquid that hydrates oats to perfect creaminess and keeps it all light and wholesome.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to pop all the flavors and bring out the best in every ingredient.
How to Make The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!)
Step 1: Mash Your Banana and Collagen Protein
Start by peeling your banana and grabbing those three scoops of collagen protein. Use a fork to mash them together in a bowl until you have a mostly smooth, creamy paste. This trick not only makes your oatmeal extra luscious but ensures the protein blends seamlessly into every bite.
Step 2: Cook the Oats
Set a small saucepan over high heat, then add your quick oats, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly with a spoon as things heat up; after just one to two minutes you’ll see the oats thicken into a velvety porridge. This is when you know it’s ready!
Step 3: Stir in Banana and Collagen Mixture
Turn off the heat and quickly stir in your mashed banana and collagen protein mix. Doing this while the oats are piping hot lets it melt right in, so your oatmeal stays smooth, rich, and perfectly blended.
Step 4: Top with Fresh Strawberries
Transfer the oatmeal to your favorite bowl, then fan out those fresh strawberry slices on top. The juicy berries not only look beautiful but add a refreshing pop of flavor and color.
How to Serve The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!)
Garnishes
The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) is fabulous with just strawberries, but don’t stop there! Try sprinkling on some chia seeds, a dusting of cinnamon, a swirl of almond butter, or even a handful of toasted coconut flakes. Every little extra brings a new flavor twist and can make your morning bowl feel special.
Side Dishes
While this oatmeal is hearty on its own, you can pair it with a mug of steaming coffee, a glass of fresh orange juice, or a small bowl of Greek yogurt for even more protein. If you’re extra hungry, consider serving it with a slice of whole-grain toast topped with avocado or a soft-boiled egg on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your morning bowl into an art project by layering your sliced strawberries in pretty spirals, creating colorful stripes with other fresh berries, or adding a drizzle of dark chocolate for a treat-yourself morning. Mini glass jars are wonderful for grab-and-go versions — perfect for meal prep or breakfast on the run. The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) also makes adorable breakfast parfaits layered with berries and yogurt!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made a bigger batch, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. While the banana may cause the oats to turn a little brown, rest assured the flavor stays just as delicious.
Freezing
Want to stash some for the future? Let your cooked oatmeal cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to one month, and be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply transfer your portion to a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or milk, and warm gently while stirring. This brings back the original creaminess and keeps The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) tasting like it’s fresh from the stove.
FAQs
Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?
You can, but be aware that regular rolled oats will take a bit longer to cook and won’t be quite as creamy. Quick oats are specially made to cook fast and blend well, which is a big part of what makes The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) so irresistible.
Can I substitute a different protein powder for collagen?
Absolutely! Collagen is especially good because it keeps things smooth and doesn’t alter the flavor, but you can swap in your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder. Just check the serving size to hit about 30 grams of protein.
What other fruit can I add?
Berries of all kinds, diced apples, mango, or even sliced figs can take The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) in new and exciting directions. Add whatever is in season for peak flavor and freshness.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! Cook the oats ahead, portion into jars, and let them cool before sealing and popping in the fridge. Add your banana and collagen just before eating for the best taste and texture — breakfast will come together in a flash!
Can I make The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, this recipe already uses water as the base and requires no dairy. For a vegan protein boost, swap collagen for plant-based protein powder and use your favorite non-dairy milk in place of water if you like extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts
The Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) is more than just a breakfast; it’s a quick, cozy start that will fuel your day and make you genuinely look forward to mornings. Give it a try with your favorite toppings and see how nourishing and delicious homemade oatmeal can be!
PrintThe Best Protein Oatmeal (With Quick Oats!) Recipe
This quick and easy everyday protein oatmeal is made with mashed banana, collagen protein, quick oats, water, sliced strawberries, and a pinch of salt. It is the BEST protein oatmeal ever.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: General
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Quick Oats:
½ cup
Banana:
1 peeled
Collagen Protein:
3 scoops
Fresh Strawberries:
5 sliced
Water:
1 cup
Salt:
pinch
Instructions
- Mash the banana with the collagen peptides. Set aside.
- Add the quick oats, water, and a pinch of salt to a small saucepan. Cook the oats on high heat, while continuing to stir, for about one to two minutes until the oats thicken up. Turn off the heat.
- Add the mashed banana and collagen peptides.
- Top the bowl of oats with fresh berries.
Notes
- Use quick oats. The ratio of water to oats is important. If making more than one serving, check the instant oatmeal box for the ratio of water to oats.
- Mash the banana with collagen peptides for the best results.
- Different protein powders have different scoopers. I recommend adding enough powder to equal about 30 grams of protein per single serving.
- Create different variations by adding different berries, almond butter, cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, flaked coconut, flax seeds, etc.
- Store this oatmeal in the fridge for up to two days. The bananas will cause the oatmeal to turn brown, but it still tastes the same in my opinion. If you want to batch-prepare this oatmeal for a one-minute breakfast, make the oats beforehand. Mash the banana and peptides just before eating.
- Equipment: I’m a huge fan of a kitchen scale to measure and track macros. You will also need a saucepan, fork, and bowl.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 398 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
