How to Make High Protein Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt

Overnight oats are the ultimate make-ahead breakfast, but this High Protein Overnight Oats version takes things to the next level. With a creamy base of Greek yogurt and rolled oats, a touch of natural sweetness from maple syrup or honey, and the cozy flavor of vanilla and cinnamon, this recipe is simple, filling, and seriously satisfying.

If you’re someone who’s always looking for foods with a high protein content to add to their meal plans, or just starting to get into it the gym to change your life for the better, we’ve got you covered. With this easy recipe, you can have healthy breakfasts ready just by making a big batch at the beginning of the week on Sunday nights.

The best part about it is that you can customize it with an almost endless number of mix-ins to help keep the flavors fresh and different, so that you don’t get bored and tired of eating it. Fresh berries or banana slices, seeds, nut butter, or even chocolate chips for an extra boost. Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or anyone who wants a nutritious breakfast that actually keeps them full, these oats are a great option that checks all the boxes.

They come together in minutes and stay fresh in the fridge for several days. Whether you enjoy them straight from the jar or dressed up with toppings, this perfect make-ahead breakfast makes it effortless to start your day with something wholesome and delicious. Out of all the easy breakfast recipes available, this one stands out as the best.

Since you are here and love overnight oat recipes, check out this Overnight strawberries and cream oats, this White chocolate raspberry overnight oats, these Chilled Crumbl Turtle Cookies, or this Double Chocolate Banana Bread.

Ingredients for this high-protein overnight oats recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make these delicious cold oats. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: provide the hearty base and combine with the liquid overnight for a creamy texture.
• Creamy Greek Yogurt: adds protein, creaminess, and tang. You can use flavored or plain Greek yogurt. If you decide to go with the flavored yogurt, adjust the sweetener.
• Milk: hydrates the oats. You can use dairy milk or dairy-free milk.
• Pure Maple Syrup or Honey: naturally sweetens the oats while balancing the tang of the yogurt. Agave nectar works as well.
• Vanilla Extract: enhances flavor and adds aromatics.
• Ground Cinnamon: brings cozy spice and depth of flavor.
• Pinch of Salt: rounds out the flavors and keeps the oats from tasting flat.

How to make homemade high protein overnight oats

This is how you can make the best overnight oats recipe. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions! 

1. In a large container add the Greek yogurt, milk, sweetener of choice, and vanilla and mix to combine.
2. Add in the oats, salt, and the cinnamon and whisk to combine again.
3. If desired, mix in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder or a spoonful of chia seeds for extra protein and fiber.

4. Fold in the mix-ins (if using) for added flavor and texture.
5. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 6–8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the oats to soften and thicken.
6. Give the oats a good stir before serving, then top with fresh fruit, nut butter, or a dusting of cinnamon.

Why do you need to make this Greek Yogurt Overnight Oats recipe?

• It’s a protein-enhanced version of classic overnight oats that will keep you full, satisfied, and help you reach your fitness goals.
• It uses Greek yogurt instead of protein powder, so you get the same benefits but without that dry, chunky texture that comes from the powder. The extra moisture from the yogurt makes a huge difference.
• It’s a great way to start the day with a healthy breakfast during busy mornings.
• It’s a basic recipe that needs only simple ingredients that anyone can make.
• If you’re a fan of cold oatmeal in general, then you’re going to absolutely love this recipe.

Frequently asked questions – FAQ

Can I use a different type of oats instead of rolled?

I wouldn’t. Quick oats or instant oats will get too mushy, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough overnight. Old-fashioned rolled is the only ideal choice for this recipe.

What type of milk works best for this Greek yogurt overnight oat recipe?

That is entirely up to you and what you’re trying to achieve with this meal. Since the yogurt will already provide some moisture, using skim milk or 2% will add the extra bit of liquid needed without jacking up the calories too much. If you’re looking for some flavor and creamy texture, using whole milk or even a bit of half-and-half will do the trick.

The same goes for the plant milk varieties. Using low-fat coconut milk, soy milk, oat milk, cashew milk, or unsweetened almond milk will work just fine. However, you can use the “extra creamy” versions of coconut or almond milk for a slightly better texture and mouth-feel.

What mix-ins should I use for the high protein overnight oats?

• Seeds and nuts like chia, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds bring added protein, a nice crunch, and healthy fats while thickening the oats. Hemp seeds are also great and add a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Fresh strawberries or blueberries, apple chunks, and banana slices bring natural sweetness, color, and a boost of antioxidants and health benefits.
• Nut butters like almond butter provide healthy fats, a fun and chewy texture, and an extra amount of protein.
• Chocolate or vanilla protein powder adds extra grams of protein for those who are even more serious about hitting their protein goals. If you are using powdered protein, it might be best to pre-mix it with a 1/3 to 1/2 cup of milk before adding it to the oats.
• If you want to add a little taste of luxury, stir in a handful of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder. 

What type of protein powder is best?

Whey protein powder would be better for this high protein overnight oats recipe because it dissolves a little bit easier than vegan or plant-based protein powder. You can use my code LOAF for a discount for that protein!

For the best absorption, you can even use ready-made protein shakes like Premier Protein drinks or Fairlife. Just know that you might have to add some extra oats to balance out the extra liquid.

How long do high protein overnight oats last?

If they’re kept in a sealed mason jar or airtight container, they should keep in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.

Can I freeze them?

Technically, you can freeze these high protein overnight oats, but the texture most likely won’t be the same once they thaw, so I don’t recommend it.