Creamy, dreamy, and loaded with wholesome goodness-these Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats are the breakfast you didn't know you needed. Each bite is delightfully smooth, just slightly tangy, and studded with bursts of fresh fruit and hearty oats.

The genius twist? Cottage cheese adds an irresistible creaminess and a hefty protein boost, transforming simple overnight oats into an energizing, stay-full-all-morning meal. Best of all, there's no cooking required-just a quick stir and a night in the fridge gives you breakfast magic by morning.

This is your perfect grab-and-go morning fix, ideal for meal prep, busy weekdays, or anytime you want breakfast to feel extra special without any extra effort. Inspired by my favorite childhood snacks and fueled by my quest for easy, nutritious breakfasts, this is a recipe I return to again and again.

Creamy cottage cheese overnight oats in a glass jar topped with fruit and honey

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Packed with Protein: Thanks to cottage cheese, these oats are filling and will keep you energized all morning.
Ridiculously Easy: No cooking, no fuss-just mix, chill, and enjoy.
Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices to make it your own.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Make several jars ahead so you've always got breakfast ready to go.

Key Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

Rolled oats give this recipe its satisfying, chewy texture and soak up the sweet, creamy flavors overnight. Be sure to use old-fashioned oats, not instant or steel-cut, for the best consistency. Gluten-free oats also work beautifully if you need a gluten-friendly option.

Cottage Cheese

The star ingredient, cottage cheese adds luscious creaminess and a serious protein punch. Use full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference. If you're not keen on the texture of cottage cheese, blend it first for a super-smooth result!

Milk (or Plant-Based Milk)

This helps soften the oats and makes everything creamy. Use dairy milk for extra richness or swap for your favorite plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat) to make it vegan. Adjust the amount for thicker or thinner oats.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds act as a natural thickener and add healthy omega-3s, fiber, and a subtle crunch. You can skip them if you don't have any or try ground flaxseed for a similar boost.

Sweetener (Honey or Maple Syrup)

A drizzle of honey or pure maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness in the oats and cottage cheese. You can also use agave, a dash of stevia, or omit the sweetener for a lower-sugar version.

Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats cooking process

Instructions for Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cottage cheese, milk, chia seeds, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir thoroughly until well mixed.

Portion and Chill

Divide the mixture evenly among four jars or airtight containers. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to let the oats soften and flavors meld.

Add Your Toppings

In the morning, give each jar a good stir. Top with your favorite fresh fruit and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds, if desired. Taste and add a little extra drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter.

Serve and Enjoy

Grab a spoon and dig in! You can eat these oats straight from the fridge, or let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes if you prefer them less cold.

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegan

Swap the cottage cheese for your favorite plant-based version (there are some great almond or tofu-based cottage cheeses out now!) and use a non-dairy milk and maple syrup for sweetener. The result is just as creamy and delicious, with all the plant-powered benefits.

Chocolate Lovers' Dream

Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder and use sliced bananas and a handful of mini chocolate chips for topping. A chocolatey, protein-rich breakfast you'll crave every morning!

Nutty Crunch

Add a spoonful of nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) to the oat mixture before chilling, or swirl it on top just before serving for extra richness and healthy fats.

Berry Burst

Mix in a handful of raspberries or blueberries right into the oats before chilling. The fruit will macerate overnight, giving your oats a pretty color and an extra boost of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats chilled, straight from the fridge, topped with a colorful mix of fresh berries, sliced banana, and a crunchy sprinkle of walnuts or pumpkin seeds. For a more substantial meal, pair with a hard-boiled egg, and don't forget an extra drizzle of honey or a dusting of cinnamon to brighten everything up.

Storage and Reheating

Store overnight oats in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Enjoy them cold or let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before eating. These oats are best eaten cold, but if you prefer, you can gently warm them in the microwave in 20-second bursts (remove fruit first). Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become watery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Use a plant-based cottage cheese and milk for a completely dairy-free version.

Q: Can I blend the cottage cheese if I don’t like the curds?

A: Yes, blending the cottage cheese will give you a smooth, creamy texture with all the same great nutrition.

Q: Can I prepare these oats without chia seeds?

A: You sure can! The texture will be slightly less thick, but you can substitute with ground flaxseed or simply leave them out.

Ready to make mornings easier and more delicious? These Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats are a time-saving, protein-packed game-changer you'll want on repeat. Give them a try this week-and don't forget to leave a comment or rating if you loved the recipe!