Mashed Banana Oatmeal

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Mashed Banana Oatmeal is the easiest sugar-free "sweet" breakfast of all time. It's literally just oatmeal with mashed bananas, and although it's not even a little bit fancy, it's cheap, easy to make, and yummy!

Recipe: $0.94 | Per Serving: $0.47 | Yield: 2 Servings

a bowl of oatmeal covered in blueberries, raspberries, seeds, coconut flakes, and other toppings

This recipe was originally published in February of 2016. It has been updated with new photos, nutrition information, and more detailed instructions. Thank you for supporting me and my blog!

Why You Should Make Mashed Banana Oatmeal

Here's a surprise for you, I have never liked oatmeal. The people surrounding me enjoy it - love it, even! - but I always thought it was just...blah. Then, one day, two things changed my opinion: milk and mashed bananas.

First of all, oatmeal made with only water tastes watery. That's a fact. Second of all, cooking the oats with sliced or mashed bananas makes them sweet and creamy. Plus, an ingredients list doesn't get much easier (and cheaper) than this.

Sorry oat haters, I'm jumping ship and I'm now 100% on board with mashed banana oatmeal. If you give it a fair chance you'll probably join me!

a bowl of mashed banana oatmeal with toppings on it and bowls surrounding it on the table

How to Make a Quick and Easy Breakfast

a bowl of uncooked oats beside an unpeeled banana and a cup of milk

Ingredients

Oats, banana, milk. I'm serious, that's really all you need to get started. I would eat those three ingredients alone, but I also love myself so I include some additional ingredients that add more flavor and texture, and of course protein and fiber for more balanced blood sugar.

Beyond those three key ingredients, you can add vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, or cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

If you're a texture person, you can play with ingredients like hemp hearts, chia seeds, and an assortment of nuts. If you'd like it a little thicker and creamier - add a swirl of almond butter! Finally, one of my favorite ways to keep my mashed banana oatmeal new and exciting is by adding seasonal fruits! Juicy blueberries anyone?

Step-By-Step Instructions

oats in a pot with water and a chopped banana

Start by slicing the banana into small rounds, and then toss them into a small pot with the oats and ½ a cup of water. I sometimes only use water for this first step because milk can scorch on the bottom of the pan, but you can add the milk here too if you're watching the pot.

Bring the pot to a simmer and then cook until most of the water is absorbed. Add the milk and reduce the stove to low heat, stirring occasionally, cooking until your desired texture is reached.

creamy oatmeal in a pot stirring in cinnamon

While you stir, mash the bananas up a bit until they're well combined with the oats. Leave some chunks if that's your preference, and add more water if it's necessary to reach your desired texture. Then, stir in the additional ingredients of your choice and enjoy!

a bowl of mashed banana oatmeal with no toppings surrounded by individual toppings in bowls and cups

FAQs and Dietary Modifications

Is oatmeal with banana healthy?

Oatmeal and banana contain fiber, which is great for your digestion! But together, they're very high in carbohydrates without much fat, fiber, or protein to balance your blood sugar. I always recommend adding things like nuts, seeds, nut butter, a high-protein milk, or protein powder to your oatmeal.

What if I want my banana oats to be a smoother texture?

You can always blend your oats before cooking to reach a fine texture and then add milk and banana and blend. Then add the mixture to your pot to heat, and add the rest of your desired ingredients before serving. Alternatively, use instant oats (unsweetened), which will result in a smoother texture.

Does it matter if I make oatmeal with water or milk?

It's a personal preference, but keep in mind that milk makes your oatmeal creamier and usually provides protein! Enough said!

Vegetarian: YEP!
Vegan: Not with milk, but if you use water or plant-based milk it is! For plant-based milks, I recommend organic soy milk as this has a higher protein content.
Paleo: Nope!
Whole 30: Nope!
Low FODMAP: Yes, in moderation and without dairy milk!

oatmeal with almond butter, fruits, seeds, and grains sprinkled on top

Additional Related Recipes

I hope you enjoy this simple breakfast recipe - and if you make it, please be sure to leave a ⭐️ review and comment below!

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