How long it takes: 24 minutes Equipment you’ll need: saucepan Servings: 1 (but easy to scale) Quinoa is a great source of protein, so this is a breakfast that’s hearty and filling. If you’re an oatmeal eater, you really need to try switching up your routine with breakfast quinoa. And if you’re not an oatmeal eater, you might find that you like quinoa better! Top your breakfast quinoa with fruit, nuts, coconut, or whatever you want for the perfect, satisfying breakfast.
Reasons To Love Breakfast Quinoa
Like oatmeal, but better. Yeah, I said it! Breakfast quinoa has that creamy, cozy, stick-to-your-ribs quality of Instant Pot steel cut oats but it’s a better source of protein to power you through your morning. Make it your own. There are endless mix-in and topping options for this breakfast quinoa recipe, both sweet and savory. You’ll never get bored with it. Easy to make. No one wants to spend an hour on a weekday breakfast—not even food bloggers! This breakfast quinoa comes together in under 30 minutes and most of the time is hands-off. You can easily make it ahead if you prefer.
Ingredient Notes
Be sure to refer to the recipe card below for the full recipe, including measurements.
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives the quinoa a nice creamy texture but if you have 2%, that can work too. Use nondairy milk to make vegan breakfast quinoa. If you prefer, cook the quinoa with water and skip the milk. Water: Since quinoa absorbs a lot of liquid, I also add a bit of water to the cooking liquid. This also helps cut down on burning and boiling over. Salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of any cooked grain. Uncooked Quinoa: Any color will work in this recipe although white quinoa will give you more of a traditional oatmeal aesthetic. If you’re a little more adventurous, try red or black quinoa, or a mix of all three colors. All three types have the same health benefits but you may notice a slight difference in taste and texture. Ground Cinnamon: If you’re planning on toppings that lean toward the sweet side, cinnamon adds a cozy, warm flavor. Toppings: Your choice: extra milk, fruit, sweetener, nuts, seeds, coconut—whatever you like or have on hand! A fried egg and handful of chopped bacon is a great topper, too.
How To Make Breakfast Quinoa
Heat liquids. Bring the milk, water, and salt to a simmer in a saucepan (that has a cover) over medium high heat. Add quinoa. Stir in the quinoa and cinnamon, if desired. Simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring frequently, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and quinoa tails start to appear. Let stand. Remove from heat, cover the pan, and let the quinoa set for 5 to 10 minutes. More of the liquid will be absorbed during this time. Serve. Sweeten to taste, stir in more milk if desired, and add your favorite toppings.
Flavor Ideas for Breakfast Quinoa
Although the possibilities are endless, here are a few flavor combinations you may want to try:
Apple cinnamon: Add diced apples and toasted walnuts or pecans for a little crunch. Sweeten with maple syrup or brown sugar. Apple compote with cooked apples is a great choice, too. Peaches and cream: Stir in diced ripe peaches (or thawed frozen peaches). Sweeten with honey and add a splash of vanilla extract. A spoonful of vanilla yogurt will up the creaminess factor. Pumpkin spice: Add a few spoonfuls of canned pumpkin puree and a generous pinch of pumpkin pie spice. Sweeten with maple syrup or brown sugar. Tropical: Fold diced mango and coconut flakes into your breakfast quinoa. Sweeten with coconut sugar, honey, or agave nectar. I like it with sliced bananas added, too. Savory: For a protein-packed breakfast, top your bowl of quinoa (omit cinnamon) with a fried egg, crumbled bacon or diced ham, and a sprinkle of chopped chives or green onions.
Make Ahead Ideas
Breakfast quinoa makes a great meal prep breakfast! Multiply the recipe as needed, then divide it into jars or airtight containers. Reheat in the microwave and add a splash of milk, if needed. If you prefer, cook the quinoa with water instead of milk. I often cook a whole box or bag of quinoa and freeze it for use in salads and meal bowls (learn how to freeze quinoa). Milk can be added to the quinoa when you warm it up for breakfast quinoa.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store breakfast quinoa in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with milk.
Leftover Love
Blend leftover breakfast quinoa into a smoothie to add extra protein and creaminess.
