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!
In This Post
This recipe is brought to you by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze
Iโve made oatmeal fast in the microwave, low and slow in the slow cooker, on the stovetop, and overnight in the fridge. However, this steel-cut instant pot oatmeal recipe makes make-ahead oatmeal so convenient, that it’s become my new favorite method. I prefer making oatmeal in the Instant Pot rather than over the stovetop because cooking steel-cut oats the traditional way can take up to 30 to 40 minutes of cooking time. With the Instant Pot, you simply set it and walk away until the timer rings (no stove babysitting!). And even better, it’s awesome for making a big batch to keep in the fridge and warm up anytime with your favorite fixins’.
Why You’ll Love It
- This is a versatile recipe that works with both steel-cut oats and rolled oats, for a healthy breakfast that I can mix up every day of the week
- Cooking oatmeal in the instant pot saves time
- It’s healthy, and you can add whatever mixins or toppings you like to make it sweet or savory
Instant Pot Oatmeal Ingredients List
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:
- Steel-cut oatsโwhile regular oats are just as healthy, I love making my instant pot oatmeal with steel-cut oats, because they are even higher in fiber and keep me fuller longer (I also love their texture)
- Almond Breeze Vanilla Almondmilkโthis oatmeal turns out best when you use almond milk rather than dairy milk in your recipe because, unlike dairy milk, almond milk wonโt scorch
- WaterโI prefer using a mix of water and almond milk in my instant pot oatmeal because the water helps dilute the almond milk enough so that it’s not too rich and creamy
- Cinnamon stickโI love the warm flavor it adds (omit if you’re making your oatmeal savory)
- Kosher saltโpeople often forget to salt their oatmeal (but don’t!). Everything needs a little salt and it adds necessary flavor.
Tip: I used Almond Breeze almondmilk Vanilla for this master recipe. However, 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.
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Steel Cut Oats vs Rolled Oats: Whatโs the Difference?
Steel-cut and old-fashioned rolled oats are the same whole-grain cereal oats and carry the same nutritional values health benefits, and antioxidants, theyโre 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
Here are the differences:
Rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) are oat kernels (groats) that are steamed and rolled into ๏ฌakes, 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 smaller and chunkier with a texture I really love. They take 3-4 times as long to cook as old-fashioned oats (unless you make them in the pressure cooker that isโthen thereโs 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.
Here’s how:
- Warm it up. Allow 7-10 minutes for the pressure cooker to come up to heat.
- Add your ingredients to the Instant Pot. 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.
- Let it rest. Once the cooking time ends, let the oatmeal sit in the pot to naturally release the pressurized steam for 20 minutes.
- Dish, top, and serve. Flip the release valve to let out any remaining steam, dish up your homemade oatmeal, and enjoy!
What is the Ratio of Oatmeal to Water
The liquid-to-oat ratios are important depending on which type of oat youโre 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 (a flatter surface needs less liquid to soften the grain)
I think these ratios are on the money, but it all depends on how creamy or not you like your oatmeal.
How to Make Oatmeal Really Good?
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 yin and yang of this breakfast combo. I usually drizzle with honey.
Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin purรฉe, ยฝ 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. Some Greek yogurt would also be yummy with this combo.
Nutty Butter and Honey Oatmeal: Stir in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter or almond butter into warmed oatmeal. Drizzle with your honey and chopped nuts for even more protein. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts would also be a great addition.
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 (I love raspberries and blueberries), almonds, and mini chocolate chips to make a sweet treat any time of the day. Add any flavor of 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.
Here’s how to make it: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sautรฉ 1 ยฝ cups chopped kale with 2 sliced mushrooms and ยฝ clove pressed garlic until the kale begins to wilt and the mushrooms soften. Add 1-2 teaspoons of soy sauce, tamari, or liquid aminos and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with ยฝ 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.
Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Oatmeal
- Be sure to factor in the time it takes for the pot to pressurize and then naturally 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.
- 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.
Can I Double This Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe?
Yes, very easily! If you double the ingredients, you don’t need to adjust the cooking time at all. Just follow the instructions as written.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Oatmeal can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the oatmeal in individual portions and reheat it in the microwave.
- 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.
More Easy Breakfast Recipes to Try
- 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! Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating on this recipe below and leave a comment, take a photo andย tag me on Instagramย 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.
Nutrition
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
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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.ย There may be affiliate links in this post of which I receive a small commission. All opinions are always my own.
I have been making this for years and never added salt. I have done that the last two times, and it’s a whole different meal! Much more flavor and satisfying than without it. I’ll never go back!
We used to make it without salt too, and it really is such a game-changer! So glad you enjoyed the recipe. :)
I’m not sure how some people are having success with this recipe, but as others have mentioned, it just burns and makes a mess in the instant pot. I did use cold milk from the fridge, which if that was the issue, it is definitely worth mentioning.
Did you use almond milk? If using cows milk, it will indeed burn.
This is THE BEST oatmeal recipe!!!!
Absolutely amazing texture and flavor. I used old fashioned oats and added a splash of vanilla. Amazing.
Thanks, Sarahโwe’re so happy you enjoyed it!
Are you adding the milk to the instant pot? You donโt compensate for it in directions and that liquid to oat ratio is greater than it recommends.
Thanks!
Yes, Ryan. For steel cut oats add 2 cups water and 1 cup AlmondMilk with 1 cup oatmeal. For rolled oats add 1 cup water and 1 cup AlmondMilk to 1 cup of oats. I made them again this morning and they’re creamy and perfect!
Make this at least 2xs a week. I love to add different spices in after. Turmeric, cinnamon pinch of black pepper, and then sweeten with maple syrup. One question, if I wanted to add chia seeds to get the omega3 in, what would be best way? Or is that best for overnight oats?
That’s awesome, Melissa! You could definitely add chia seeds to this!
She asked what the best way to add them would be – add them to the oatmeal and cook them with it? Or add them after cooking and just mix in?
Hi Fran! We’d recommend mixing them in after the oatmeal has been cooked. We hope this helps. Enjoy!
Hello Heidi,
I am a die-hard, every morning, Oatmeal eater. I use Quaker Oats Whole Grain Rolled Oats. I want to give the IP technique a try for sure. I cook one cup of oats with 1.75 cups of water; no milk of any type, I don’t care for any type of milk in my oatmeal. Once cooked I add some butter and a tablespoon of raw honey. Do you think this would work?
Thom
Yes, it should work Thom, but I haven’t tried so you’ll need to experiment. The main thing with the IP is milk can scorch but since you aren’t using any, it should be good. Let us know how it works for you!
Perfectly thick and creamy, just the way I like it! I made a batch big enough for the week. I add fresh or frozen berries when reheating it each morning. Sure makes my morning a lot more organized, and my oatmeal is not runny like it is when I cook it from scratch in the microwave. Also, the cinnamon stick added a heavenly fragrance and flavor. Great recipe!
Happy to hear you enjoyed!
What a great instant pot recipe. My friends gave me their (unused) one and I’ve been looking for new recipes ever since. Perfect way to make a bunch of oatmeal that doesn’t require babysitting it over a hot stove. I didn’t add the cinnamon stick because I just add my own flavours before I eat, but this worked great.
Worked perfectly for me in my Ultra. Rolled oats, water 1:2 , cinnamon sticks and I added thick sliced apples and they cooked perfectly. No burn. Great texture. Thank you
Love it! What an easy and great tasting way to make oatmeal.
Thanks for sharing!
So much easier than cooking oats the traditional way. Thanks for sharing!!
Was surprised to see ~500 calories per serving. I happened to Google โamount of calories in cooked oatmealโ and what came up was: 1 cup cooked oatmeal = 158 calories. Just thought this might be of interest.
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!
Thanks for the approval Mary, and frozen cherries sound great!
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
Glad to hear it worked for you Mark! Thanks for the extra info from your cooking.
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.
Followed the recipe and it was PERFECT! THANK YOU!!
I am needing to make oatmeal for 30 people. Can you multiple this recipe for that many and will the time remain the same?
You may need to split that into two batches
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.
Ok thank you!
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?
You could definitely half the recipe!
Hi Ann, sure you could cut the recipe in half.
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.
I am sure glad that this was a hit for you!
it burned the oatmeal. can you please add to the recipe that for those with duo the porridge option is the best?
many thanks
Love this recipe! Any tips on making this recipe for a crowd? Like for 10 people? Would I need to increase cook time? Thnx
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.
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.
Thanks for the info Marilyn!
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.
The absolutely BEST OATMEAL Iโve ever made. I used almond milk and added a chunk of vanilla bean instead of a cinnamon stick.
YUM!
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!
Thanks for the tip Anne, that’s a good idea.
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?
Great question! With the pressure in the pot, It shouldn’t need to cook longer!
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!
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!
The IP is soooooo fun! Enjoy!
Made this just as your recipe called for and it came out fine. No burning , no crispy edges but it was a little โwetterโ than I prefer. Also, Iโd 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. Iโm just new with Instapots and very unsure. Lol! Thanks!
How many servings would this recipe make?
Hi Heidi!
Your blog says rilled oats are 2 to 1 but the recipe says to 1 – can you clarify?
Thanks!
Has anyone tried making in glass canning jars? Looking for a way to make batches and not have to transfer… Thanks!
You could absolutely make this in glass Cheryl!
Thanks for sharing This post…
Thanks for sharing informative post
Hi, I used the rolled oats recipe and the โburnโ 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?
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!
I’m so glad you’ve had such success with it Farah. Your Keep Warm tip is a great one. Thanks for sharing it!
Thanks Farah! I am glad this one has been helpful for you. I like the natural pressure release method too!
I as really disappointed in this. Used rolled oats – they were REALLY gummy.
Sorry it didn’t work for you Lynn. Did you do the same amount of time?
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!
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?
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.
Thanks for sharing this Knowledge Heather!
I grease the bottom and sides of the pot with coconut oil. That seems to have taken care of the burn problem for me.
finally thank you for answering the question sheesh
Hi there. Could you clarify the ratio for Steel Cut? Alsomos this cooked on High pressure or โOatmeal/porridge โ setting?
Thank you!
3:1 is the correct ratio. I use the high pressure setting. Thanks for the comment Cathy
I tried the 3 to 1 in an instant pot and it was a liquid mess
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?
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!
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.
Best recipe! Thank you!
beautiful ! until I saw the chocolate chips !!! How could you mess up such a perfect, healthy breakfast like that.
I consider it a win if my kids will even eat oatmeal so if I have to add a few chocolate chips to it to sweeten the deal, I can live with myself
Hi
Is this sweetened or unsweetened almond milk ?
Arlene
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!
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
I used this recipe with a very old and popular brand of old fashion steel cut oats and it worked well. The next time the store was out of that brand I got another brand of steel cut oats and they burned. I figure my mistake but did it second time. I look more closely at container and it was quick cooking steel cut oats. Didnโt know there was even such a thing. I think any โquickโ cooking oat will burn
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)- Iโm excited to try this.
I thought that too, but the water + almond milk is 3:1
How does this differ from just using the porridge setting?
How would this freeze?
Hi Jen! I would freeze it in small individual containers and then reheat in the microwave.
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.
That is interesting Jeff, I am glad it was all ok!
Hey. I just made using 3 min and turned out good. I put liquid in then oats and did not stir. Donโt know if it matters. In some recipes stirring is not recommended. rl
I agree!
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.
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 โFOOD BURNโ on my screen. And itโs a duo plus that Iโm using. Iโm bummed.
Same here – duo model and Burn message.
I got the burn notice too. Stuck a bit to the bottom of the pan. But still very yummy. Only difference was I didnโt use any milk only water.
I make my oatmeal in a glass bowl. I don’t have to wash the Instant Pot bowl and the glass keeps the oatmeal warm longer. I also never get a burn warning with kerping one cup of water in the metal Instant Pot bowl.
How you make steel cut oatmeal in a slow cooker
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:-)
This recipe looks amazinggggg! can’t wait to try it!
Hope you love it!
Thanks!! Really yummy & so easy. This morning I turned it on before I worked out so itโd be ready when I was done.
If I wanted to double the recipe, do I need to increase the time to cook?
I was wondering the same thing!
Nope I doubled it this morning at normal time. Came out perfect.
Great! Thanks, David!
Hi Kendall, you do not need to increase the cooking time! Thank you!
good one and looks too tasty
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
That sounds so great! I am glad you found it from Costco! What a win!