Savory Oatmeal Tomato Sausage

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Warm, savory oatmeal gets a bold twist with juicy grape tomatoes, spiced chicken sausage, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This quick dish simmers oats in vegetable broth for extra depth, then gets topped with arugula, toasted pine nuts, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. It's a fast, nourishing bowl ideal for any time of day—balanced with protein, greens, and comforting texture in every bite.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:11:49 GMT
A bowl of oatmeal with tomatoes and sausage. Bookmark
A bowl of oatmeal with tomatoes and sausage. | ioanacooks.com

This warm and savory oatmeal is a satisfying and unexpected twist on a classic breakfast grain bringing together hearty sausage fresh herbs juicy tomatoes and earthy greens in every bite. It is the perfect one bowl meal when you want something cozy yet vibrant.

I first tried this when I needed something comforting but light and now it is one of my favorite go to meals on rainy days

Ingredients

  • Sunflower oil or neutral oil: adds moisture and helps brown the sausage use avocado or canola for best results
  • Fully cooked sweet Italian chicken sausage: adds protein and a savory flavor look for good quality with no added sugar
  • Low sodium vegetable broth: infuses the oats with savory flavor choose a broth with clean simple ingredients
  • Old fashioned rolled oats: provide a hearty base and creamy texture make sure they are not instant
  • Salt: enhances all the other flavors use just a pinch
  • Grape tomatoes: bring brightness and acidity pick ripe but firm ones for best texture
  • Fresh herbs: such as parsley or cilantro add a fresh green note use packed leaves for more flavor
  • Baby arugula: offers a peppery bite and a bit of crunch add right before serving to keep vibrant
  • Pine nuts: provide richness and crunch toast them lightly for full flavor
  • Lemon wedge: brightens the whole dish with a final squeeze of acidity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Sausage:
Heat one teaspoon oil in a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook slowly until evenly browned on all sides which should take about ten minutes. This step builds deep flavor into the meat.
Prepare the Oats:
While the sausage cooks bring the broth to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir in the oats and salt. Lower the heat to medium and simmer gently stirring occasionally until the oats are creamy and most of the broth is absorbed. This takes about five minutes.
Combine with Flavorings:
Slice the sausage into thin coins. Gently stir the sausage slices grape tomatoes and chopped herbs into the cooked oats until evenly combined. This blend brings freshness and savory notes into the creamy oats.
Add Toppings and Serve:
Transfer everything into a bowl. Top with fresh baby arugula and toasted pine nuts. Drizzle the remaining teaspoon of oil over the top. Serve immediately with a lemon wedge on the side for a final hit of brightness.
A plate of food with tomatoes and sausage. Bookmark
A plate of food with tomatoes and sausage. | ioanacooks.com

My favorite part is the burst of sweetness from the tomatoes against the richness of sausage. This dish instantly reminds me of weekend brunches with my sister where we would challenge each other to reinvent breakfast classics.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the oats.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken sausage with plant based sausage for a vegetarian version. You can also replace pine nuts with slivered almonds or sunflower seeds for a nut free option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a soft boiled egg on top for extra richness or add a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. It also pairs nicely with crusty bread or fresh fruit on the side.

A plate of food with sausage and tomatoes. Bookmark
A plate of food with sausage and tomatoes. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Savory oatmeal is a popular dish in many Asian and Northern European cuisines where oats are used beyond sweet breakfasts. This version borrows the heartiness of an Italian flavor profile and combines it with the comforting structure of porridge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats take longer to cook and will result in a firmer texture. For quick results, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.

→ What herbs work best in this dish?

Fresh parsley and cilantro are great options. You can also experiment with basil or chives for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a similar savory depth.

→ How do I toast pine nuts properly?

Cook them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant—usually in 2 to 4 minutes.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, prepare the oatmeal base ahead and reheat gently. Add fresh toppings like arugula and lemon just before serving.

Savory Oatmeal Tomato Sausage

Savory oats with sausage, tomatoes, herbs, and arugula—hearty, fast, and full of comforting flavor.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
5 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 1 How Many It Serves (2 1/4 cups)

Dietary Preferences: Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 2 teaspoons sunflower oil or neutral oil such as canola or avocado, divided
Ingredient 02 1.5 ounces fully cooked sweet Italian chicken sausage (1/2 link)
Ingredient 03 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
Ingredient 04 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
Ingredient 05 1/8 teaspoon salt
Ingredient 06 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved
Ingredient 07 1/3 cup packed fresh herbs, such as parsley and/or cilantro
Ingredient 08 1/2 cup packed baby arugula
Ingredient 09 1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted
Ingredient 10 1 large lemon wedge

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a small nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until evenly browned, about 10 minutes.

Step 02

Bring broth to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir in oats and salt; reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Thinly slice the sausage into coins. Stir sausage, tomatoes, and herbs into the cooked oatmeal. Transfer to a bowl.

Step 04

Top with arugula and pine nuts; drizzle with the remaining 1 teaspoon oil. Serve with lemon wedge, if desired.

Extra Tips

  1. To toast pine nuts, cook in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant, 2 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.

Tools You'll Need

  • Nonstick or cast-iron skillet
  • Small saucepan

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains nuts (pine nuts)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 391
  • Total Fat: 22 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 36 grams
  • Protein Amount: 15 grams