This Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a delicious way to start your day! It’s packed with oats, fresh blueberries, and grated zucchini, making it super nutritious.
I love that I can sneak in some veggies while enjoying something sweet. Plus, it fills me up all morning long, so breakfast is easy peasy! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These provide a hearty base and great texture. You can also use quick oats, but expect a softer result. Instant oats are not recommended as they can become mushy.
Milk: You can use any milk you like—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, unsweetened almond milk works wonderfully!
Maple syrup or honey: Both sweeteners will work! If you prefer, you can use agave syrup or coconut sugar as a substitute. Just adjust the amount to your taste.
Zucchini: This veggie adds moisture and nutrition. If you don’t have zucchini, you could use grated carrot or even mashed banana for a different flavor and sweetness.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries are great. If unavailable, try other berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries. Dried cranberries also make a nice change!
How Do You Perfectly Prepare the Zucchini for Your Oatmeal?
Getting the zucchini right is key for your baked oatmeal. You don’t want extra moisture making it soggy. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and squeeze gently to remove as much excess moisture as you can.
- This not only helps with texture but also prevents your baked oatmeal from becoming watery.
Taking this small step can really make a difference in the final dish!
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-ins:
- 1 cup finely grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, like walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked oatmeal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, making the total time approximately 1 hour. Let it cool slightly before serving, and you’ll have a warm, nutritious breakfast ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed.
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup (or honey), eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until combined; don’t over-mix.
5. Add Zucchini and Blueberries:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and blueberries. It’s okay if a few blueberries burst; that’s part of the charm!
6. Pour and Spread:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Optional: Add Nuts:
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them over the top for some added crunch and flavor.
8. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy warm, or store leftovers in the fridge for a quick breakfast throughout the week!
This baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep—it stays fresh in the fridge for several days and is easy to reheat. Enjoy your healthy start to the day!
FAQ for Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, but the texture will be a bit softer. Rolled oats give a heartier base, while quick oats will create a creamier finished dish. If using quick oats, check the baking time since they may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can replace the zucchini with grated carrot or even finely chopped apples for a fun twist. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture, as you would with zucchini.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes! You can freeze baked oatmeal for up to 3 months. Cut it into squares, wrap each piece tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat to enjoy!
