Easy Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats Recipe

Hey there, friend! Today, we’re talking breakfast—with a super cozy, creamy bowl of steel-cut oats made right in the Instant Pot. If you’re tired of stirring a pot on the stove or you just want a breakfast that basically cooks itself, you’re in the right place. Steel-cut oats are a staple in my house—wholesome, comforting, and just begging for your favorite toppings.

Grab a spoon and let’s make mornings a whole lot better (and easier)!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly easy—no need to babysit the stove!
• The Instant Pot makes the oats perfectly creamy every single time.
• Customizable with your favorite toppings—you can make it sweet, fruity, nutty, or even savory!
• Perfect for meal prepping—make once, enjoy all week long.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Steel-Cut Oats: These super hearty oats are the star! If you don’t have steel-cut, you can’t swap them for rolled oats in this recipe (the cook times are different), but I promise it’s worth sticking to the real deal.
• Water: Just plain water works, but if you want an extra creamy texture, swap half the water with your favorite milk—almond, oat, or dairy milk all work.
• Salt: A pinch of salt goes a long way to enhance the flavor. Don’t skip it!
• Optional Sweeteners: Maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar are great to drizzle in post-cooking. Sweeten to your heart’s content.
• Toppings: This is where the fun happens! Fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips—go wild or keep it simple.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make the magic happen? Here’s how easy it is:

1. Combine Ingredients: In your Instant Pot, mix 1 cup steel-cut oats, 3 ½ cups water (or a mix of water and milk), and a pinch of salt.
2. Set the Instant Pot: Close the lid and make sure the valve is sealed. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode and set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure.
3. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, carefully turn the valve to release any remaining steam.
4. Stir and Serve: Open the lid, give the oats a good stir, and adjust the consistency by adding a splash of milk if you like it creamier. Sweeten to taste and pile on your favorite toppings.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Double the recipe if you’re meal prepping! It stores well and reheats beautifully all week long.
• For extra flavor, try cooking the oats with a cinnamon stick or a splash of vanilla extract.
• Love texture? Toast the steel-cut oats in a dry pan before adding them to the Instant Pot for a nutty flavor boost.
• If your oats seem too dry after cooking, just stir in a bit more milk to loosen them up.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Go Savory: Skip the sweeteners and try mixing in sautéed spinach, a poached egg, and a grating of Parmesan for a hearty breakfast or light dinner.
• Nut Butter Lovers: Stir in a dollop of almond or peanut butter for extra creaminess and protein.
• Festive Flavor: Top your oats with spiced apples, cranberries, and a dusting of cinnamon for a holiday twist.
• Serving Ideas: Pair your oats with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea and some crusty buttered toast for a complete, cozy breakfast spread.

FAQs

• How do I store leftovers? Let your oats cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Can I reheat steel-cut oats? Absolutely! Just add a splash of milk or water and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Can I freeze steel-cut oats? Yep! Divide them into individual portions and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can still make steel-cut oats on the stovetop—it just takes a little more time and attention. Simmer 1 cup oats in 4 cups water for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats Recipe Card

There you have it—breakfast bliss in less than 20 minutes! Got a favorite topping combo or a creative twist on this recipe? Share it in the comments or tag me on social with #TheKitchensAid. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!