Kickstart your day with a bowl of Low Calorie Oatmeal (189 calories) made on the stovetop or microwave in just 5 minutes. Finish with fresh fruit for a delicious, nourishing breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is good for you!
This low calorie oatmeal is sure to become your new favorite breakfast! Whether you’ve got weight loss goals or just want a lighter, yet still filling morning meal, this recipe is for you. This oatmeal is simple to prepare, great for nutrition and easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins and toppings. Naturally gluten-free and easily made vegan!
As an added plus, it can be ready to enjoy in less than 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays. This is a feel-good meal you’ll come back to time and time again!
Want to try baked oatmeal next? My blueberry baked oatmeal is a must try!
What you will need
There’s only two key ingredients to make this lightened-up oatmeal:
- Rolled oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the perfect chewy texture.
- Liquid: I like to make my oats with either almond milk or water. However, you can use a combo of the two and/or any milk you like best.
Optional mix-in ideas
This low calorie oatmeal is a versatile and tasty base recipe. For an extra touch of flavor, try mixing in your favorite add-ins! Here are some tasty options to try:
- Fresh fruit: I love banana slices, blueberries, strawberries, diced apple or peaches. Pretty much any fruits you can think of will be delicious.
- For sweetness: To make your oatmeal sweeter, add in stevia, monk fruit, maple syrup, honey or a sprinkle of chocolate chips.
- Healthy fats: Flaxseed meal, chia seeds, hemp seeds, peanut butter or almond butter are great for giving this breakfast even more staying power!
- Extra protein: Add Greek yogurt or 2 tbsp of protein powder for a boost of protein.
- Flavorings: A small amount of salt, ground cinnamon and/or vanilla extract will enhance the flavor.
- More mix-in ideas: For six incredible flavor combos, check out this guide for how to make oatmeal!
How to make low calorie oatmeal
You can choose to make this oatmeal recipe in the microwave or on the stovetop! Here’s how:
Microwave Cooking Method
Add all the ingredients to a microwave-safe bowl and mix with a fork to combine. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stir, and microwave for another 30 seconds or until bubbly. Rest for another minute at room temperature then stir again, serve with your fruit of choice, and enjoy!
Stovetop Cooking Method
Add all the ingredients to a medium saucepan. Simmer over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes or until the oatmeal begins to thicken. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with berries or fruit of choice, drizzle with honey or toppings of choice, and enjoy!
Recipe Tips
Be sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats for best results! Steel-cut oats require a different cooking method and liquid-to-oats ratio, so they’re not ideal for this particular recipe. Quick-cooking oats can be used, but they tend to result in a softer, mushier texture.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats are ideal for a heartier texture, while instant oats cook faster.
What’s the best liquid to use for low-calorie oatmeal?
Water and unsweetened almond milk are excellent low-calorie options. Almond milk adds a slight creaminess without many extra calories.
Can I prepare this oatmeal in advance?
Yes, this oatmeal recipe can be pre-cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat with a splash of liquid to restore its creaminess.
More Delicious Oatmeal Recipes
Low Calorie Oatmeal
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond milk or water
- a pinch of salt
- fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
Microwave cooking method
- Add all the ingredients to a microwave-safe bowl and mix with a fork to combine. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stir, and microwave for another 30 seconds or until bubbly. Rest for another minute at room temperature then stir again, serve with your fruit of choice, and enjoy!
Stovetop cooking method
- Add all the ingredients to a medium saucepan. Simmer over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes or until the oatmeal begins to thicken. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with berries or fruit of choice, drizzle with honey and any other toppings you’d like, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
How to store leftover oatmeal
Store any leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of almond milk or water to loosen it up and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
