Refrigerator Oatmeal is the perfect make ahead breakfast for a busy weekday! Fresh fruit, oats and protein packed yogurt layered and ready to grab and go any time of day!

Refrigerator Oatmeal in a glass jar with berries on top

Refrigerator Oatmeal is pretty much the perfect on the go breakfast for any day of the week! Not only can the be made days ahead of time, they’re great for breakfast or even a burst of energy after hitting the gym.

Mornings are always kind of busy around here trying to get everything together and get my daughter out to the bus in time.  We try to make breakfasts quick and easy with things like breakfast cookies that are just prepped and ready! Refrigerator Oats definitely fit the bill for getting the family out the door with a full and happy belly!

When I first saw these over at The Yummy Life several years ago I had to try them immediately! Since then I’ve created tons of my own versions (and I think everyone I know has a version of overnight oatmeal)!

I make these quite often with yogurt and whatever fruit I happen to have on hand (or even frozen berries in a pinch). You can use any container or mason jar you have on hand (or even cups covered in plastic wrap)… no need to purchase special jars. Once jarred, we keep them in the fridge up to a week.

Refrigerator Oatmeal in a glass jar with berries on top and spoon

I love to use an unflavored/plain yogurt as the base and add a bit of honey but any flavor will work perfectly in this recipe. The addition of oats makes these hearty and filling while chia seeds are little nutritional powerhouses.  Keep in mind that while chia seeds can seem a little bit pricey, you only need a tiny bit and they last about a year in the fridge! You can also check your local bulk store or health food store to purchase just as much as you need!

You can also add in tons of other goodies like:

  • chopped nuts
  • coconut
  • raisins
  • chocolate chips
  • Nutella

Not only are these Refrigerator Oatmeals perfect to grab for breakfast or lunch on the go, they’re great for guests too!  My daughter got married last weekend (Aug 26/17) and I had 12 people staying here.  I made a refrigerator full of these with different berries and fruits and by the end of the weekend, there were none left. Everyone loved them!

image of Everyday Comfort cookbook by Holly Nilsson of Spend With Pennies plus text
Refrigerator Oatmeal in a glass jar with berries on top
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Overnight Refrigerator Oatmeal

This is an amazingly delicious, healthy and filling breakfast!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 Servings
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Ingredients  

  • 1 ¼ cup oats or any oats that are not quick-cooking
  • 1 ⅓ cups milk or almond or soy milk
  • 1 cup plain yogurt or any flavor
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 2-3 cups fruit fresh or frozen including berries, mangoes, peaches etc.

Instructions 

  • In a large bowl, combine oats, chia seeds, yogurt and milk
  • Layer fruit & yogurt mixture in containers
  • Seal and refrigerate overnight
5 from 18 votes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 263 | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 71mg | Potassium: 434mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 575IU | Vitamin C: 2.9mg | Calcium: 229mg | Iron: 1.9mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Breakfast
Cuisine American

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About the author

Holly Nilsson is the creator of Spend With Pennies, where she creates easy, comforting recipes made for real life. With a passion for nostalgic flavors and simplified techniques, Holly helps busy home cooks create delicious meals that always work. She is also the author of “Everyday Comfort,” which promises to inspire even more hearty, home-cooked meals.
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  1. I have been seeing these on Pinterest but have never tried them. I made a few varieties last night and put them in jars that I had saved.
    I as excited to try the strawberry one this morning. I do think I prefer it warm so popped the jar in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir and heat another 30 seconds. Tastes fantastic = breakfast made in a flash. I will be making these a lot from now on. Hubby is lovings his overnight oats with brown sugar, syrup and chopped pecans…. Thanks, Holly for the recipe….

    1. You’re welcome Sharon! So glad you are both loving the overnight oats! They’re so versatile and convenient.