Yes, You Can Add Nutritional Yeast to Scrambled Eggs

December 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Cleveland Clinic, just two tablespoons of fortified nutritional yeast contain over 630% of your daily value of vitamin B12, and yes, you can add nutritional yeast to scrambled eggs to reap these benefits. This simple addition can transform your breakfast into a more flavorful and nutrient-dense meal.

Quick Summary

Nutritional yeast is an excellent addition to scrambled eggs for a savory, cheesy flavor and a significant nutritional boost. Learn the best methods for adding it, recommended quantities, and how it impacts taste and texture for a more satisfying breakfast.

Key Points

Flavor Enhancement: Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory, and nutty flavor to scrambled eggs without the need for dairy.
Nutritional Boost: Fortified nutritional yeast provides an excellent source of B vitamins, especially B12, which is vital for many body functions.
Start Small: Begin with 1-2 teaspoons per two eggs to avoid a grainy or overpowering flavor, adjusting to your personal preference.
Best Practices: Whisk the nutritional yeast directly into the raw eggs for a uniform flavor distribution, or sprinkle it on top for a more intense, cheesy finish.
Texture Impact: A moderate amount of nutritional yeast can create a creamier consistency, but using too much can make the eggs dry.
Pairing Potential: Nutritional yeast pairs wonderfully with other scrambled egg additions like chives, turmeric, avocado, and salsa.

What is 'Nooch' and Why Put It in Your Eggs?

Nutritional yeast, affectionately known as "nooch," is a deactivated yeast with a savory, cheesy, and slightly nutty flavor profile. It comes in flake or powder form and is a popular staple in plant-based cooking for its flavor-enhancing properties. Beyond its delicious taste, it's a powerhouse of nutrition, especially when fortified. Adding this golden-hued ingredient to your eggs is an easy way to elevate your morning meal.

The Flavor and Texture Impact

Nutritional yeast adds a complex, umami flavor to eggs, mimicking the taste of cheese without the dairy. This makes it a perfect option for anyone seeking a cheesy flavor while reducing dairy intake or following a vegan diet. When added to scrambled eggs, it can also contribute to a slightly creamier texture, helping to create those fluffy, large curds that many people prefer.

Step-by-Step: How to Add Nutritional Yeast to Scrambled Eggs

Adding nutritional yeast is a straightforward process, and the timing can be adjusted based on your desired results. Here are the most common methods:

Method 1: The Whisk-In
- Step 1: Crack your eggs into a bowl and add a splash of milk (or plant-based alternative) if desired.
- Step 2: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of nutritional yeast per two eggs.
- Step 3: Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the nutritional yeast is fully incorporated and the mixture is frothy.
- Step 4: Cook the eggs as you normally would, stirring gently to form large, soft curds.
Method 2: The Sprinkling Finish
- Step 1: Cook your scrambled eggs until they are almost done.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the eggs in the pan, about 1 to 2 teaspoons per serving.
- Step 3: Stir gently to combine and allow the yeast to melt slightly into the hot eggs before serving.
Method 3: The Post-Cook Garnish
- Step 1: Prepare your scrambled eggs without any additions.
- Step 2: Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the top of the eggs after plating. This adds a prominent, slightly crunchy texture and an intense flavor burst in every bite.

Flavor Variations and Pairings

To take your nutritional yeast scrambled eggs to the next level, consider these flavor combinations:

Herbs: Fresh chives, parsley, or dill complement the savory taste.
Spices: A pinch of turmeric can enhance the yellow color and offers anti-inflammatory properties, while smoked paprika adds a smoky depth.
Toppings: Serve with sliced avocado, salsa, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added richness and texture.

Benefits and Considerations of Adding Nutritional Yeast

Adding nutritional yeast to your eggs is more than just a flavor choice; it's a nutritional upgrade. However, there are some factors to consider.

Benefits of Nutritional Yeast in Scrambled Eggs:

Nutrient-Dense: Fortified nutritional yeast is an excellent source of B vitamins, especially vitamin B12, which is crucial for red blood cell formation and nerve function.
High Protein: It is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This boosts the protein content of your meal, helping you stay full longer.
Heart Health: Its beta-glucan fiber can help lower cholesterol levels.
Antioxidant Properties: Nutritional yeast contains antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.

Considerations:

Texture: Adding too much nutritional yeast can make your eggs dry or grainy. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
Flavor Preference: The cheesy, savory taste may not appeal to everyone. Experiment with quantity to find what works for you.
Fortification: Only fortified nutritional yeast contains significant amounts of vitamin B12. If B12 is your primary goal, ensure you are buying a fortified version.

Comparison: Scrambled Eggs With vs. Without Nutritional Yeast


Feature	Scrambled Eggs without 'Nooch'	Scrambled Eggs with 'Nooch'
Flavor	Classic, eggy taste.	Savory, cheesy, and nutty.
Nutritional Profile	Good source of protein and essential fats.	Significant boost in B vitamins (especially B12 if fortified), added protein, and antioxidants.
Texture	Can be fluffy or creamy, depending on preparation.	Often results in a creamier texture but can become dry if too much is added.
Versatility	Excellent as is, with salt and pepper.	The cheesy flavor pairs well with a wider variety of ingredients like herbs and vegetables.

Conclusion

Adding nutritional yeast to scrambled eggs is a simple, effective way to boost both flavor and nutritional content. It imparts a delightful savory, cheesy flavor and enriches the dish with essential B vitamins and protein. By following a few simple steps and starting with a small amount, you can easily find the perfect balance to elevate your breakfast. Whether you whisk it in, sprinkle it on, or use it as a garnish, 'nooch' offers a fantastic culinary upgrade. So go ahead and give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to make scrambled eggs. For more information on the health benefits of nutritional yeast, you can visit the Cleveland Clinic website: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nutritional-yeast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Start with 1 to 2 teaspoons of nutritional yeast for every two eggs, and adjust the amount to your taste from there. A little goes a long way in adding a savory, cheesy flavor.

You can add it in three ways: whisk it into the raw eggs before cooking for even distribution, sprinkle it over the eggs while they are still in the pan, or use it as a garnish after plating for a stronger, more direct flavor.

It adds a savory, cheesy, and nutty flavor that can mimic the taste of parmesan cheese, making your scrambled eggs more complex and satisfying.

Yes, it can. A small amount can make the eggs slightly creamier, while adding too much can absorb moisture and result in a drier or grainier texture.

Yes, fortified nutritional yeast is a good choice as it provides a significant amount of vitamin B12, a nutrient often lacking in plant-based diets. The flavor is generally the same whether it's fortified or not.

Yes, absolutely. Like scrambled eggs, nutritional yeast can be whisked into the egg mixture for an omelette to add a cheesy flavor. Many recipes for vegan omelettes also use it.

While nutritional yeast provides a unique flavor, you can use fine parmesan cheese for a similar savory and cheesy taste. For a completely different but still flavorful twist, try onion powder and garlic powder.