Instant Pot steel cut oats are one of my favorite healthy breakfast recipes. They turn out rich, creamy, and nearly foolproof. Steel cut oats have more fiber than rolled oats and a pleasantly coarse, chewy texture that I love.
Making steel cut oats in the Instant Pot is an easy way to start the morning right. While pressure cooking doesn’t dramatically cut the active time, it lets you set it and forget it — no stirring or worrying about oats boiling over. You can start the oats and move on with your morning routine; they’ll stay warm in the pot without overcooking if you’re not ready right away. I appreciate a breakfast that waits for me.
How to make Instant Pot steel cut oats
To prepare steel cut oats in the Instant Pot, combine 5 cups of liquid with 2 cups of steel cut oats in the pot. Using all water yields a creamy result, but you can substitute 2 cups of milk (dairy or nondairy) and 3 cups of water for a richer flavor. For seasoning, stir in 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Lock the lid and ensure the vent is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally — the full process takes roughly 30 minutes from start to finish, which is comparable to stovetop timing but much less hands-on. When the pressure has released, open the lid and stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra creaminess. Serve the oats plain or top them with your favorite mix-ins.
Topping ideas for Instant Pot oatmeal
- Diced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar
- Pumpkin puree and walnuts
- Bananas and chocolate chips
- Homemade lemon curd and toasted walnuts
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Gingerbread oats: molasses, grated ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg
Meal prep oatmeal
Instant Pot steel cut oats are excellent fresh and also ideal for meal prep. Double the recipe and portion the cooked oats into single-serving containers; store in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for longer-term storage. You can add toppings before storing or keep the oats plain and add toppings when you reheat. Note that some toppings — like bananas or jelly — break down when reheated, so add those fresh if possible.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture, microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then heat another 30 seconds or until warm. Some people enjoy these oats cold straight from the fridge as well.
Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats
Equipment
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Instant Pot Duo
Ingredients
- 5 cups water
- 2 cups steel cut oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoon butter
Instructions
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Add the water, oats, vanilla, and salt to your Instant Pot.
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Lock the lid and set the vent to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
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Allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Stir in the butter and top as desired before serving.
Video
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