This recipe is creamy, packed with protein, and the easiest thing to throw together before bed. It’s perfect for busy mornings, or when you just want to wake up and have breakfast already waiting for you. You mix everything in one jar or bowl, pop it in the fridge, and boom — ready to go. No cooking, no stress.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe actually saved me during one of my busiest weeks at work. I had no time to make breakfast in the morning, and I didn’t want another protein shake. I tossed this together at night, didn’t think much of it… and then I took that first bite. Creamy, satisfying, full of texture, and it kept me full for hours. Now it’s a regular in my fridge.
- No cooking at all — just stir and chill
- Keeps you full all morning
- Super customizable with your favorite toppings
- High in protein, low effort
- Great for meal prep
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 6+ hours (overnight)
Total Time: 5 minutes prep + overnight chill
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: sliced strawberries, blueberries, almond butter, granola
Pro Tips
- Use rolled oats, not quick oats — they hold up better overnight
- Full-fat cottage cheese gives a richer, creamier texture
- Want it thicker? Reduce the milk just a little
- Stir again in the morning before serving
- Add your toppings after chilling for the best texture
Tools Required
- Medium glass jar or airtight container
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small whisk or spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap almond milk with oat, cow, or soy milk
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different texture
- Maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version
- Add cocoa powder for chocolate oats
- Stir in protein powder if you want even more protein
Make-Ahead Tips
You can make 3–4 jars at once and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just don’t add fruit toppings until the day you eat it — they can get mushy.
Let’s Make It!
Step 1: Add the Oats
Scoop ½ cup of rolled oats into your jar.
Step 2: Add the Cottage Cheese
Spoon in ½ cup of cottage cheese right on top of the oats.
Step 3: Pour in the Milk
Pour ½ cup unsweetened almond milk into the jar.
Step 4: Add Chia Seeds
Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of chia seeds.
Step 5: Add Sweetener and Flavor
Add 1 tablespoon honey, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Step 6: Mix It All Up
Use a spoon or small whisk to stir everything until fully combined.
Step 7: Chill Overnight
Close the jar and place it in the fridge for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
Step 8: Add Toppings & Serve
Top with fresh sliced strawberries, blueberries, and an optional drizzle of almond butter.
Macros (approximate, without toppings)
Calories: 380
Protein: 26g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 7g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Cottage cheese adds complete protein and creamy texture without needing to cook. Chia seeds absorb liquid overnight, thickening the mix and adding fiber. The oats soften just enough in the milk, turning everything into a spoonable, hearty breakfast that holds you over.
Common Mistakes
- Using quick oats: They turn mushy — rolled oats are better
- Not mixing well: Make sure everything is stirred evenly, especially chia seeds
- Too much milk: Stick to the ratio or it’ll be runny
- Adding fruit too early: It gets soggy. Add it fresh before eating
What to Serve With
- A hot cup of coffee or matcha
- A hard-boiled egg for even more protein
- A side of fresh fruit if you didn’t add any to the oats
- Greek yogurt for extra creaminess on top
FAQ
Can I use steel-cut oats?
Not for this recipe — they don’t soften enough overnight.
Is it okay to use flavored cottage cheese?
I’d skip it. It can change the flavor too much and add sugar.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days, but best texture is in the first 2.
Can I freeze overnight oats?
Technically, yes, but the texture gets weird. Fresh is best.
Leftovers and Storage
Store your overnight oats in a sealed jar or container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for 3–4 days. Don’t add fresh fruit until the day you plan to eat them so it stays fresh and bright.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, no-fuss breakfast that keeps you full and tastes amazing, this High Protein Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats recipe is a game changer. It’s creamy, customizable, and makes your mornings smoother. Try it out, make it your own, and let me know how it went in the comments!