This oatmeal recipe made in an Instant Pot makes make-ahead oatmeal so easy that it’s become my new favorite method for both steel cut oats and rolled oats!
This recipe is brought to you by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze
The Best Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe
I’ve made oatmeal fast in the microwave, low and slow in the slow cooker, and overnight in the fridge, but this oatmeal recipe made in the Instant Pot electric pressure cooker makes make-ahead oatmeal such a cinch, and so convenient, that it’s become my new favorite method. And even better, it works with both steel cut oats and rolled oats, for a healthy breakfast that I can make different every day of a week that doesn’t require any babysitting or tending as it cooks.
Today I’m sharing how to make Instant Pot oatmeal with both steel cut oats and rolled oats, plus 10 flavor combinations—from fruit or kale, to chocolate chips and nut butters—to make this oatmeal totally your own.
My family has a long history of eating oatmeal for breakfast. As a kid, I never even knew you could make oatmeal on the stove top, because my mom would always buy the instant quick oats oatmeal packets, placing them easily within our elementary school arm’s reach so my little sister and I could boil the water for the packet of oats and mystery ingredients to make our own breakfast before school.
My mom was smart that way. We learned how to fend for ourselves and she earned herself a little extra mom time in the morning with her coffee and the Today Show.
As I moved on in life, I sort of fell off the oatmeal-for-breakfast train and favored scrambled eggs, or cottage cheese and toast, or my fave microwave egg whites and spinach toasted bagel as my made-in-the-office breakfast instead.
But then last year when my sister served me her recipe for Instant Pot steel cut oats alongside her famous latte, I made the return to dosing up on my own morning oatmeal once again.
This Instant Pot oatmeal recipe has been perfected by my sister. If there’s one thing that Holly does and always does right, it’s making sure that she measures, that she takes notes, and that she makes it perfect. She’s a scientist, and that’s why she is such a good cook. Because sure, cooking can be art, but it all starts with science.
But Is Instant Pot oatmeal actually easier to make? Yes!
The Instant Pot is still enjoying its run as the trendy appliance of the season or two, but here’s one more validating reason it’s worth the cupboard space: I like making oatmeal in the Instant Pot rather than over the stove or in the microwave because there’s no monitoring involved to be sure it doesn’t bubble over and cause a mess like mine does in the microwave 50% of the time, or stirring to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Instead, you simply set it and walk away until the timer rings. And even better, it’s awesome for making a big master batch to keep in the fridge and warm up anytime with your favorite fixins’.
Cooking steel cut oats the traditional way can take up to 30 to 40 minutes of cooking time. But when you toss them into the Instant Pot, the cooking time is cut to 3 to 4 minutes with the resting time of about 10 minutes where the grains continue to soften. Be sure to allow time for the pressure cooker to come up to heat, about 7-10 minutes more.
I’ll take that for $500, Alex!
What’s in This Instant Pot Oatmeal?
This Instant Pot oatmeal recipe can be made using steel cut or old-fashioned oats, so feel free to use whichever you have on hand. Besides the oats, here’s what you’ll need to make perfectly creamy oatmeal:
- Water
- Almond Breeze Vanilla Almondmilk
- Cinnamon stick
- Kosher salt
One of the things that you need to know about making oatmeal in the Instant Pot is that the oatmeal turns out best when you use almond milk rather than dairy milk in your recipe because almond milk won’t scorch.
I used Almond Breeze almondmilk Vanilla for this master recipe but you could use any of the flavors from Unsweetened Original to the Almond Coconut Blend Original that work equally well. Almond Breeze is available in both refrigerator cartons and easily store-able, shelf-stable cartons so it’s always easy to have it on hand.
I’ve shared some of my favorite oatmeal toppings further down this post, so keep reading to find out all the ways you can jazz up your morning bowl of oatmeal.
Steel Cut Oats vs Rolled Oats: What’s the Difference?
Steel cut and old fashioned rolled oats are the same whole grain cereal oat, and carry the same nutritional values, they’re just processed differently. They are both:
- High in soluble fiber to keep you full and keep things moving
- Naturally gluten free (but some cross contamination can occur during processing, so look for a certified gluten-free product if needed)
- Nutrient dense and a top-10 superfood
- High in beta glucan for lowering cholesterol (my friend Stephanie is proof it works!)
Here are the differences:
Rolled oats (also called old fashioned oats) are oat kernels (groats) that are steamed and then rolled into flakes, then toasted, creating a flatter surface area so they cook quicker.
Steel cut oats (sometimes called Irish Oatmeal) are less processed by steel blades, making them chunkier and take 3-4 times as long to cook as old fashioned oats.
Unless you make them in the pressure cooker that is. Then there’s only about 1 minute difference in cooking time!
How to Cook Oatmeal in an Instant Pot
I’m telling you, this Instant Pot oatmeal is a breeze to make. Simply add all the oatmeal ingredients into the Instant Pot, then press the manual setting and set the cooking time for 3 minutes on high.
Once the cooking time ends, let the oatmeal to sit in the pot to natural release the pressurized steam for 20 minutes.
Flip the release valve to let out any remaining steam, then dish up your homemade oatmeal and enjoy!
The Perfect Oatmeal to Water Ratio
The liquid to oat ratios are important depending on which type of oat you’re using.
- For steel cut oats: use a 3 to 1 ratio aka 3 cups liquid to 1 cup oats (less processed needs more liquid to soften the grain)
- For rolled oats: use a 2 to 1 ratio aka 2 cups liquid to 1 cup oats (flatter surface needs less liquid to soften the grain)
I think these ratios are on the money….HOWEVER…depending on how creamy or not you like your oatmeal, take a cue from my sister the scientist and test the recipe for yourself, take notes, and add more liquid the next time you make it for even creamier bites.
My Go-To Oatmeal Toppings & Flavor Combos
There are more ways to jazz up your oatmeal than Carter has pills (one of my mom’s favorite sayings that I had no idea where it came from ’til now). And whole grain oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast anymore. Use it as a whole grain alternative to rice, pasta, quinoa, or farro in savory lunches or dinners with a fridge forage and then #putaneggonit. Or make it the base for a healthy snack or dessert topped with sweet treats.
This is the time to use your noggin’, listen to your cravings, and play with your food. Use either steel cut or rolled oat oatmeal interchangeably and add more almond milk in your favorite flavors to your liking. You never know what wonderful things might happen.
Maple Banana & Brown Sugar Oatmeal: Top a bowl of oatmeal with sliced bananas, almonds and a tablespoon of brown sugar with a drizzle of maple syrup and an extra splash of Vanilla almond milk. I like to sprinkle it all with pumpkin pie spice but you could use plain cinnamon or nutmeg instead.
Apples, Nuts, Cranberries and Cinnamon: Chopped apples and piquant cranberries are the ying and yang of this breakfast combo. I usually drizzle with honey.
Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin purée, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice and a splash of vanilla into the oatmeal and top with chopped almonds.
Tropical Fruit Oatmeal Bowl: Choose any assortment of your favorite tropical fruit including kiwi, pineapple, mango, banana or mandarin oranges and always sweet coconut flakes with an extra dose of Almond Breeze Almond Coconut Original.
Nutty Butter and Honey Oatmeal: Stir in a spoonful of creamy nut butter into warmed oatmeal and drizzle with your honey and chopped nuts
Strawberry Cheesecake Oatmeal Bowl: Add a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta to your bowl then swirl in a spoonful of strawberry jam and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for a crunchy topper.
Berry Berry Chocolate Chip and Oatmeal Sundae: Top oatmeal with a handful of your favorite berries, almonds and mini chocolate chips to make a sweet treat any time of the day. Add any flavor almond milk to make it even creamier.
Rocky Road Oatmeal: Top with chopped almonds, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows and a drizzle of hot fudge.
Savory Kale and Mushroom Oatmeal with Bacon and Egg: All the food groups are represented in this oatmeal dish that turns breakfast savory or serves up oatmeal for an easy dinner or lunch. I like this best with the steel cut oats and always #putaneggonit.
Here’s how to make it: Sauté 1 1/2 cups chopped kale with 2 sliced mushrooms and 1/2 clove pressed garlic in a skillet over medium high heat with a drizzle of olive oil until the kale begins to wilt and the mushrooms soften. Add 1-2 teaspoons of soy sauce, tamari, or liquid aminos (my personal favorite) and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon (about 2 strips) and warm through.
Kimchi and Jammy Eggs: Add chopped kimchi leaves, shredded seaweed and sesame seeds to a bowl of oatmeal with ramen-style jammy eggs and drizzle with a bit of sesame oil and soy sauce or liquid aminos for a flavor bomb oatmeal meal.
Can I Double This Oatmeal Recipe?
Yes, very easily! If you double the ingredients, you don’t need to adjust the cook time at all. Just follow the instructions as written.
How Long Does Oatmeal Stay Fresh?
Oatmeal can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the oatmeal in individual portions and reheat it in the microwave.
How to Reheat Oatmeal
You can reheat your Instant Pot oatmeal in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of milk to loosen up the oats, then top as desired.
Tips for Making the Best Oatmeal
Whether you’re making oatmeal using steel cut oats or old fashioned oats, the additional ingredients and method are the same, it’s just the ratios that differ. While this oatmeal recipe requires just 3 minutes cooking time and doesn’t need any babysitting as it cooks in the Instant Pot, be sure to factor in the time it takes for the pot to pressurize and then natural release for a total cooking time of about 35 minutes.
If desired, you can add more spices (nutmeg, ginger, etc) to the base oatmeal recipe. I prefer keeping my oats plain so I can doctor them up differently every day to suit my mood, but you do you.
Also, I find that one essential ingredient to any oatmeal is salt, so don’t skip it. It brings out the flavor and enhances each nutty bite.
More Easy Breakfast Recipes to Make
- Avocado Toast with Tomato and Hard-Boiled Egg
- Banana Bread Muffins with Toasted Coconut
- Healthy Caprese Breakfast Sandwiches
- Banana and Chocolate Chip Baked French Toast
- Healthy Egg McMuffins
If you make this recipe, please let me know! Bookmark this recipe and leave a comment below, or take a photo and tag me on Instagram with #foodiecrusheats.
Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe for Steel Cut Oats or Rolled Oats
Ingredients
- For Steel Cut Oats
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup Almond Breeze almondmilk Vanilla
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 generous pinch of kosher salt
- For Old Fashioned Rolled Oats
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup Almond Breeze almondmilk Vanilla
- 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 generous pinch of kosher salt
Instructions
-
Add the oatmeal of your choice and the liquid ratios that match to the pot of your Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker with the cinnamon stick and kosher salt.
-
Press the manual setting and set the cooking time for 3 minutes on high. Once the cooking time ends, allow the oatmeal to sit in the pot to natural release the pressurized steam for 20 minutes. Flip the release valve using the end of a wooden spoon to release any residual steam and always face the lid away from you when opening.
-
Add toppings of your choice with additional almond milk to taste. Oatmeal can be refrigerated for 3-5 days.
More Instant Pot Recipes Worth Mastering
- Instant Pot Chicken Breasts (From Fresh or Frozen)
- Instant Pot Butternut Squash
- Instant Pot Monkey Bread
- Creamy Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
- Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Any questions? Email me at [email protected] or leave a comment below! And tell us what your favorite oatmeal flavoring might be!
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This post is sponsored by Almond Breeze. As always, thank you for reading and supporting companies I partner with, which allows me to create more unique content and recipes for you. All opinions are always my own. There may be affiliate links in this post of which I receive a small commission. All opinions are always my own.
Myrth B Priest says
We have been using Coach’s Steel Cut Oatmeal. I couldn’t find it at Ogden Costco but my sister brought some back from St. George Costco. It is lots less than the Irish Cans in the grocery store, about $8.00 for a 4 1/2 lb/ bag. I will be trying some of the recipes and suggestions you have given. Thanks, Myrth
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
That sounds so great! I am glad you found it from Costco! What a win!
Angelina says
good one and looks too tasty
Kendall says
If I wanted to double the recipe, do I need to increase the time to cook?
Christina says
I was wondering the same thing!
David says
Nope I doubled it this morning at normal time. Came out perfect.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Great! Thanks, David!
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Hi Kendall, you do not need to increase the cooking time! Thank you!
Madison says
Thanks!! Really yummy & so easy. This morning I turned it on before I worked out so it’d be ready when I was done.
Carlie Roberts says
This recipe looks amazinggggg! can’t wait to try it!
Ashley Sorenson says
Hope you love it!
Dee says
I decided to try something simple for my first go at the instant pot. My steel cut outs turned out perfectly this morning. Thanks for sharing:-)
Dawn says
How you make steel cut oatmeal in a slow cooker
JEFF says
I followed this recipe for both rolled and steel cut oatmeal (I like oatmeal ) in two different Insta pots. Both times I got a BURN warning on the display. I think it’s because the oatmeal thickens quickly, but am not sure. I went ahead and let the pot naturally depressurize, and everything was fine, but I think rather than cooking on manual, the porridge setting may work better.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
That is interesting Jeff, I am glad it was all ok!
Rosie Luke says
Hey. I just made using 3 min and turned out good. I put liquid in then oats and did not stir. Don’t know if it matters. In some recipes stirring is not recommended. rl
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
I agree!
Bob says
My 2nd try I got the burn message. I thought I was doubling but had already doubled. Also I think if you start with hot water and put oats in last that would help. Other people have better luck with Porridge setting. People seem to have the BURN problem most with the Duo model.
Layla says
Bob – your message gave me insight. I tried the exact stated recipe for rolled oats (my first time ever making oatmeal in the instant pot) and got “FOOD BURN” on my screen. And it’s a duo plus that I’m using. I’m bummed.
Kylie says
Same here – duo model and Burn message.
Jen says
How would this freeze?
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Hi Jen! I would freeze it in small individual containers and then reheat in the microwave.
Mppaul2 says
How does this differ from just using the porridge setting?
Rachael says
Your article says to use a 3:1 ratio butbthe recipe has a 2:1 ratio for steel cut oats. Which one is it (before I put my oats in the instapot)- I’m excited to try this.
Brittany says
I thought that too, but the water + almond milk is 3:1
Theresa says
My instant pot burn it. I followed the water to oats and before it even got to temperature it was burning. What is up with that
Arlene says
Hi
Is this sweetened or unsweetened almond milk ?
Arlene
Karla says
Exactly the same thing happened to me. I used unsweetened almond milk. The middle was really good. So I would like to try again avoiding the burn issue. Any ideas?
Thank you for sharing! I love the taste!
Cathleen Johnson says
beautiful ! until I saw the chocolate chips !!! How could you mess up such a perfect, healthy breakfast like that.
Fabmom says
Best recipe! Thank you!
Janice says
I cooked the steel cut oatmeal exactly as written. When I opened the lid, the oatmeal was crusty around the edges and stuck to the bottom of the pan. I like my oatmeal thick but I will definitely use more liquid next time, or as others have suggested, use the porridge setting.
Amanda says
Would it still turn out well if you put everything in the pot to sit overnight in case you want to set the timer to turn on before you wake up?
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
It might be a little bit too soggy due to the soak time. You could definitley give it a try though! I would love to hear how it turns out!
Cathy Campo says
Hi there. Could you clarify the ratio for Steel Cut? Alsomos this cooked on High pressure or “Oatmeal/porridge “ setting?
Thank you!
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
3:1 is the correct ratio. I use the high pressure setting. Thanks for the comment Cathy
Al says
I tried the 3 to 1 in an instant pot and it was a liquid mess
Lindsay says
Both times I tried this recipe I got the “burn” indication and it was burned badly to the bottom. The middle bit was delicious so I would like to find a solution… any tips?
Heather says
Lindsay you could cook the oatmeal using the PIP (pot in pot) method and that will eliminate the burn message. Just note that depending on the type of internal pot you use (ceramic/glass/stainless) the cooking time may need to be adjusted very slightly.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Thanks for sharing this Knowledge Heather!
Jacquie McWatt says
I grease the bottom and sides of the pot with coconut oil. That seems to have taken care of the burn problem for me.
Bernnie says
This was perfect! I did use whole milk and lucky for me it didn’t scorch. We’re always tight on time in the mornings so now I can make this right away and no one misses breakfast! Thank you!
Lynn says
I as really disappointed in this. Used rolled oats – they were REALLY gummy.
Heidi says
Sorry it didn’t work for you Lynn. Did you do the same amount of time?
Farah says
I’ve used this recipe for both steel cut and rolled oats. Sometimes I use all water, sometimes I use 1 cup of low fat milk. It always turns out perfect creamy dreamy!
When it’s done I make sure the “keep warm” button is off and set my timer for 15 min which is enough time for the pot to naturally release. Thanks for sharing!
Heidi says
I’m so glad you’ve had such success with it Farah. Your Keep Warm tip is a great one. Thanks for sharing it!
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Thanks Farah! I am glad this one has been helpful for you. I like the natural pressure release method too!
Susie says
Hi, I used the rolled oats recipe and the ‘burn’ notice came on my instant pot and saw that the bottom layer stuck to the bottom and there was still quite a bit of liquid at the top. I had mixed it before closing it and setting it as instructed. I doubled the recipe and I read that nothing else should be changed as far as the settings and timings go. Why did it burn?
Ashley Madison says
Thanks for sharing informative post
Ashley Madison says
Thanks for sharing This post…
Cheryl says
Has anyone tried making in glass canning jars? Looking for a way to make batches and not have to transfer… Thanks!
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
You could absolutely make this in glass Cheryl!
Jett says
Hi Heidi!
Your blog says rilled oats are 2 to 1 but the recipe says to 1 – can you clarify?
Thanks!
Shari Giarraputo says
How many servings would this recipe make?
Faith M Bowe says
Made this just as your recipe called for and it came out fine. No burning , no crispy edges but it was a little “wetter” than I prefer. Also, I’d rather not use the Almond milk at all, as I prefer drier, chunky oatmeal. Can I use just all water and no almond milk? And how do I get it thicker? Add more oatmeal or less water? If so….how much? Sorry. I’m just new with Instapots and very unsure. Lol! Thanks!
Anna says
This recipe is amazing! I’ve received IP several days ago and totally went crazy about it. I decided to use soy milk instead and slightly more water and it came out just perfect! Added banana, spoon of peanut butter and some hazelnuts. Thanks for the recipe!
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
The IP is soooooo fun! Enjoy!
AMM says
Just used these rations and it was Perfect! Used Whole milk instead and as I know i tend to like mine wetter I added about a 1/4 cup more milk. Also I used pumpkin pie spice and added just two table spoons of brown sugar. Mixed thurouhly and set for the 3 min> i was too excited though and released pressure at 13 min past cook time and was not dissapointed this was marvelous. Topped with bananas and honey!
Jann says
I made the rolled oats in my instant pot and used Porridge setting on 3 minutes and it came out perfect! Is it ok to double this recipe and does it need to cook longer?
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Great question! With the pressure in the pot, It shouldn’t need to cook longer!
Evie says
The absolutely BEST OATMEAL I’ve ever made. I used almond milk and added a chunk of vanilla bean instead of a cinnamon stick.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
YUM!
Anne says
This was great! So easy! I used rice milk and water with the rolled oats and had no problems with burn. I had all my liquids at room temp. That may have helped since that will cut down on time it takes to get to pressure. Those with burn issues may want to warm up their liquids a bit. I like my oats a little harder but that’s just a personal preference so I’ll play around with the times but what a great way to make oatmeal and super easy clean up! Thank you!
Heidi says
Thanks for the tip Anne, that’s a good idea.
Marilyn says
I use the pot-in-pot method which is a smaller pot on a trivet, in my instant pot. Remember to add 1 – 1 1/2 cups of water under the trivet! It is perfect every time. The clean up is easy too. I read elsewhere that using milk may create the burn message if the p-i-p is not used.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Thanks for the info Marilyn!
Roberta says
I made this according to your recipe this morning for the rolled oats and sprinkled brown sugar and chopped dates after I cooked the oats. It was perfect. If you add 1 1/2 cups water to outer pot doing pot in a pot, do you also put 2 cups water, or water/milk combo, in the inner pot with the 1 cup of oats?
Thanks.
Bob says
My 2nd try I got the burn message. I thought I was doubling but had already doubled. Also I think if you start with hot water and put oats in last that would help. Other people have better luck with Porridge setting. People seem to have the BURN problem most with the Duo model.
Jennifer Bair says
Love this recipe! Any tips on making this recipe for a crowd? Like for 10 people? Would I need to increase cook time? Thnx
Elena says
it burned the oatmeal. can you please add to the recipe that for those with duo the porridge option is the best?
many thanks
Wendy Mitchell says
I followed the directions exactly for rolled oats, doubling the recipe and it came out PERFECT! I will never make oatmeal any other way! It is so delicious. Reminds me of how my grandmothers use to taste.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
I am sure glad that this was a hit for you!
Ann says
I have a 6 qt IP. I made steal cut oatmeal. Very good but had too much. I’m only one in house who eats oatmeal. Can I make smaller recipe?
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
You could definitely half the recipe!
Heidi says
Hi Ann, sure you could cut the recipe in half.
Jasper Kat says
Sorry to be pedantic but, the correct expression is: “more than Carters have liver pills”. They were known for the little, silver liver pills they produced and sold.
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
Ok thank you!
Brooke says
I am needing to make oatmeal for 30 people. Can you multiple this recipe for that many and will the time remain the same?
Ashley @ Foodie Crush says
You may need to split that into two batches
Sam Fisher says
Followed the recipe and it was PERFECT! THANK YOU!!
Susan W. Cox says
I put this on this morning on my way out the door to do my early morning/senior hour grocery shopping. I came back 90 minutes later and the oatmeal was still warm and a perfect consistency. I used steel cut oats and your ingredients as listed. I made 2 adjustments. The book “The Instant Pot Miracle” recommends that you spray the inside of the pot with cooking spray — I used the coconut oil version — and that you put 2 cups of water in the bottom, use the trivet, and cook the oatmeal in a heatproof dish. I have a corning ware casserole dish that is the perfect size. Otherwise, I followed your directions and you cannot beat the consistency. My go-to recipe from now on for sure! Thanks to you and your sister.
Mark says
I did 2min High pressure cook, and natural release.
2 cups steel cut organic Azure oatmeal.
6 cups of water.
I started it up at like 6am, and only got to it at 9am. So, it sat in Keep warm for at least two hours.
It was perfect! Just like “boil and stir” for 40min method. There is no crunch at all, each grain is thick and creamy.
The extra water was minimal, and once I fluffed it, the water got absorbed by oatmeal.
Thanks
Heidi says
Glad to hear it worked for you Mark! Thanks for the extra info from your cooking.
MaryTaylor says
I made it and you are correct. It is the best oatmeal ever. I made it with Old Fashioned Oatmeal, because I couldn’t find any Irish Oats, which is what I USE TO prefer.
I’m sticking with this Oatmeal
I added frozen cherries, cut in half and a few walnuts with it. Fantastic!
Heidi says
Thanks for the approval Mary, and frozen cherries sound great!