This Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a tasty start to the day! Packed with fresh blueberries and sneaky zucchini, it’s both nutritious and filling.
Who knew veggies could be so delicious in breakfast? I love how easy it is – just mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for meal prep, you can warm it up all week long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are essential for texture and heartiness. If you don’t have them, instant oats can work, but the texture will be softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t a great substitute here, as they need longer cooking times.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrition without a strong taste. You can substitute with finely grated carrots if you prefer. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture, or your dish may become too wet.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are best for flavor, but frozen ones work too! If using frozen, do not thaw them; just toss them directly into the mixture. You can also swap blueberries for other berries like raspberries or chopped strawberries.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer, whether it’s dairy, almond, oat, or soy. I often choose almond milk for a nutty flavor; it works great in baking!
Nuts: Chopped nuts add a nice crunch. If you’re nut-free, consider using seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra nutrition without allergens.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini is Prepared Right?
Getting the zucchini right is crucial for the consistency of your baked oatmeal. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Wash and trim the ends of your zucchini. Grate it using a box grater or food processor.
- Once grated, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze tightly to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a soggy texture.
- Measure the squeezed zucchini for your recipe; about 1 1/2 cups should be perfect.
By preparing the zucchini this way, you ensure your baked oatmeal has the right moisture level and allows the flavors to shine!
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oatmeal:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. So, in about 50 minutes, you’ll have a wholesome breakfast ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure even baking. While the oven heats up, grab your 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir these ingredients together until they’re well combined, making sure the baking powder is evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of milk, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup (or honey), and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the large bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep it fluffy!
5. Add Zucchini and Blueberries:
Gently fold in the prepared grated zucchini and fresh blueberries. This step adds moisture and flavor to your baked oatmeal, making it extra delicious!
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped nuts on top for added texture.
7. Bake Away!
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and the center is set. The aroma will be irresistible!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then slice it up and serve warm. If you’d like, drizzle a bit of milk or yogurt on top for extra creaminess. Enjoy your healthy breakfast!
Indulge in a delightful dish that’s healthy, filling, and packed with the goodness of oats, zucchini, and blueberries! Perfect for starting your day right!
FAQ for Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Can I Use Unsweetened Applesauce Instead of Eggs?
Yes, you can! Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce to replace each egg in the recipe. This will keep your baked oatmeal moist while also adding a touch of natural sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Oatmeal?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack!
Can I Freeze This Baked Oatmeal?
Definitely! Once cooled, slice the baked oatmeal into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Other Mix-Ins Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of chocolate chips!
