If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing breakfast that cooks itself while you enjoy your morning, Instant Pot Oatmeal is about to become your new favorite routine. Silky steel-cut oats blend with milk, a hint of cinnamon, and vanilla for a bowl that’s as comforting as it is wholesome. The hands-off cooking in the Instant Pot means you can focus on waking up (or wrangling the kids!) while your oatmeal gets perfectly creamy every single time. Whether you like yours topped with fresh fruit, nuts, or a generous drizzle of maple syrup, this Instant Pot Oatmeal is the ultimate breakfast blank canvas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of everyday ingredients can come together to make the silkiest, most satisfying Instant Pot Oatmeal. Below you’ll find the essentials, each bringing its own little touch: texture, creaminess, flavor, or the power to personalize with delicious toppings.
- Steel-cut oats: The hearty texture and nutty flavor of steel-cut oats make them the star of this oatmeal, holding up beautifully in the pressure cooker.
- Water: This gives the oats enough room to soak, swell, and cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds a boost of creaminess; feel free to use almond, oat, or regular milk to suit your preferences.
- Salt: Just a pinch is all you need to wake up the flavors—whatever you do, don’t skip it!
- Cinnamon (optional): Adds gentle warmth and spice, especially lovely on chilly mornings.
- Vanilla extract (optional): Brings sweet aroma and extra depth—if you have it, you’ll love the upgrade.
- Toppings of choice: Fresh fruit, nuts, maple syrup, brown sugar, or nut butter all play beautifully with the creamy oats and let everyone customize their bowl.
How to Make Instant Pot Oatmeal
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the steel-cut oats, water, milk, salt, and if you like, a delicate sprinkle of cinnamon and a splash of vanilla extract right into the Instant Pot. Give everything a quick stir to combine, making sure you get the oats submerged so nothing sticks to the bottom.
Step 2: Pressure Cook on High
Secure the lid, make sure the valve is set to sealing (not venting!), and set your Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes. This magical appliance locks in both flavor and texture, delivering oatmeal perfection in record time.
Step 3: Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This gentle rest helps the oats finish cooking and keeps them extra creamy. After 10 minutes, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure and open the lid.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Take a moment to stir your Instant Pot Oatmeal—sometimes a bit of liquid can separate out, and this quick mix brings everything back together. Spoon into bowls and let everyone customize with their favorite toppings. Enjoy immediately while it’s piping hot and cozy!
How to Serve Instant Pot Oatmeal
Garnishes
The fun really starts once the oats hit the bowl! Top your Instant Pot Oatmeal with a colorful mix of sliced bananas, fresh berries, toasted nuts, or a bit of maple syrup. A dollop of almond or peanut butter adds extra richness, while a sprinkle of brown sugar brings a gentle caramel sweetness.
Side Dishes
Complete your breakfast spread with something bright and fresh—a citrus fruit salad is a vibrant contrast to the creamy oats. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, serve with Greek yogurt and a small plate of scrambled eggs for extra protein and staying power.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Instant Pot Oatmeal into a brunch showstopper by setting up a toppings bar where everyone can customize their bowl. Use pretty jars and little bowls for garnishes—think toasted coconut flakes, chia seeds, or even a spoonful of jam for a swirl of fruity flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Oatmeal keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply transfer any extras to an airtight container once cooled, and you’ll have quick breakfasts ready to go all week.
Freezing
If you want to plan even further ahead, portion cooled oatmeal into single servings and freeze. Freeze in silicone muffin cups for grab-and-go convenience—they’ll thaw easily overnight in the fridge or gently warmed in the microwave.
Reheating
Oatmeal thickens as it chills, so when you’re reheating, add a splash of milk or water. Stir well, heat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm and creamy, then top as usual for a breakfast that feels freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of steel-cut oats?
Steel-cut oats are ideal for Instant Pot Oatmeal because they hold their shape, but if you only have rolled oats, reduce the pressure cook time to 3 minutes. The texture will be softer and more traditional, but still delicious.
How can I make Instant Pot Oatmeal creamier?
For an extra luxurious result, replace all the water with milk, or even stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or nut butter after cooking. The more milk, the creamier the oats!
Is Instant Pot Oatmeal gluten-free?
Steel-cut oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, but always check for certified gluten-free labeling to ensure there’s been no cross-contamination during processing.
What’s the best ratio of liquid to oats?
This recipe uses a 1:3 ratio of oats to water plus an additional half cup of milk, which produces the perfect balance between creamy and hearty. If you prefer thinner or thicker oatmeal, simply adjust the liquids accordingly.
Can I double the recipe in the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Double all the ingredients and keep the same cook and release times. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, and you’ll have extra oatmeal for the whole family or a week’s worth of make-ahead breakfasts.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like waking up to a warm bowl of Instant Pot Oatmeal—especially when it’s this hands-off and easy. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or making a special breakfast for the family, give this recipe a try and watch it become a much-loved morning tradition. Happy cooking!
Print
Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Instant Pot oatmeal that is creamy and comforting, perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast.
Ingredients
Steel-Cut Oats:
1 cup
Water:
3 cups
Milk (dairy or non-dairy):
1/2 cup
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon
Cinnamon (optional):
1/2 teaspoon
Vanilla Extract (optional):
1 teaspoon
Toppings of choice:
fresh fruit, nuts, maple syrup, brown sugar, or nut butter
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: Add steel-cut oats, water, milk, salt, and optional cinnamon and vanilla to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Stir and Serve: Carefully remove the lid and stir the oatmeal to combine any separated liquid. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For creamier oats, use all milk instead of water.
- You can double the recipe using the same cook time.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
