Effortless & Healthy Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats: Your Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Overnight Breakfast
This Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats recipe is your ultimate shortcut to a healthy, delicious breakfast. Forget the endless stirring and messy boil-overs of stovetop cooking – this incredibly creamy oatmeal is perfectly cooked in just 30 minutes! Imagine waking up to a warm, nutritious meal without lifting a finger. This recipe streamlines your mornings and is fantastic for hands-off meal prep. You can even set it to cook overnight using the Instant Pot’s delay start button, transforming your breakfast routine into a truly effortless experience. Don’t own an Instant Pot? No worries! We also provide instructions for making equally delightful steel cut oats in a Slow Cooker, ensuring everyone can enjoy this wholesome and satisfying breakfast.
This is a sponsored post on behalf of Bob’s Red Mill. As always, all opinions are 100% mine. Thank you for supporting the brands that help make Confessions of a Fit Foodie possible.
I am genuinely obsessed with any form of lazy, hands-off meal prep – and this Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats recipe perfectly embodies that philosophy. I’ve grown to love steel cut oats and enthusiastically incorporate them into my routine almost every morning. However, my passion for them significantly wanes when faced with the traditional stovetop cooking method, which often demands constant stirring, guarding against potential boil-overs, and inevitably leaves behind a sticky, starchy mess to clean up. It’s simply not the peaceful morning experience I desire.
This is precisely where the Instant Pot emerges as an undeniable kitchen hero! It has quickly become my absolute favorite method for preparing a week’s supply of Steel Cut Oats, requiring only 30 minutes of active cook time. What’s even more advantageous? I can effortlessly program my Instant Pot the night before, allowing it to begin cooking while I’m still enjoying those precious last few minutes of glorious, uninterrupted sleep. This means waking up to the comforting aroma of a ready-to-eat, warm breakfast, making busy weekdays significantly smoother and less stressful.
For those who don’t yet own an Instant Pot, there’s no need to despair! My fondness for steel cut oats extends to the slow cooker as well, offering another equally convenient, “set-it-and-forget-it” option that yields wonderfully creamy results.
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Why I Love Cooking Steel Cut Oats in the Instant Pot (or Slow Cooker)
- Hands Off: Forget about standing over the stove, constantly stirring and adjusting heat. Both the Instant Pot and the Slow Cooker handle the entire cooking process for you, allowing you to focus on other morning tasks, get ready for your day, or simply savor an extra few minutes of peace. This truly is a ‘set it and forget it’ breakfast solution that frees up your precious morning time.
- Mess Free: One of the most frustrating aspects of cooking steel cut oats on the stovetop is their notorious habit of bubbling over, leaving a sticky, starchy mess on your burners and countertops. With the sealed environment of the Instant Pot or the gentle, steady heat of a Slow Cooker, those frustrating boil-overs become a distant memory. Enjoy perfectly cooked oats without the cleanup hassle!
- Easy to Double and Freezer Friendly: This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it absolutely ideal for efficient meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just want to stock up on healthy breakfasts for yourself, you can effortlessly double or even triple the batch without complicated adjustments to the cooking process. Plus, these cooked oats freeze beautifully, making them perfect for grabbing a quick, healthy meal anytime. Prepare a large quantity on the weekend and enjoy homemade oatmeal all week (or even month) long!
- Meal Prep While You Sleep: As a huge proponent of lazy, hands-off meal prep, this recipe is a game-changer. The Instant Pot’s delay start function is pure magic for breakfast. Simply set your ingredients and the timer before bed, and wake up to the comforting aroma of freshly cooked oatmeal ready and waiting. It’s the ultimate convenience for busy mornings, ensuring a wholesome and nourishing start to your day without any rush or stress.
Ingredients
You’ll only need a few simple, wholesome ingredients to create this incredibly healthy, satisfying, and easy breakfast. For precise measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down in this article.
- Steel Cut Oats – This recipe is specifically designed for steel cut oats due to their unique texture and longer cooking time, which is perfectly suited for pressure cooking or slow cooking. Do not substitute with rolled oats or instant oats, as the liquid ratio and cooking times will be vastly different. For the best quality and a reliably hearty result, I highly recommend using my favorite Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Steel Cut Oats. Their oats consistently deliver a superior chewy texture and delicious nutty flavor.
- Water – For the Instant Pot version of this recipe, it’s crucial to use two and a half cups of water per one cup of oats to achieve the perfect creamy consistency, especially if you plan to utilize the delay start function. For the slow cooker method, you have a bit more flexibility and can opt for a mixture of half water and half milk (both dairy and non-dairy milk alternatives work equally well) if you prefer an even richer, creamier texture. However, plain water also works wonderfully.
- Salt – A tiny pinch of salt might seem insignificant, but it’s a culinary secret that truly enhances the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in your oatmeal, preventing it from tasting bland and bringing out the best in the oats.
- Vanilla Extract – While entirely optional, a dash of pure vanilla extract adds a wonderful warmth and subtle sweetness to your oats without introducing any added sugars. It elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully and makes the oatmeal feel more indulgent.
- Cooking Oil Spray – This step is super important and should not be skipped! Oatmeal, especially steel cut, has a tendency to stick stubbornly to the bottom and sides of the pot during cooking, which can make cleanup a chore. Coating the inner pot thoroughly with cooking oil spray (I prefer coconut oil or avocado oil spray for their neutral flavor and high smoke point) creates a non-stick barrier, ensuring an easy transfer of your cooked oats and a hassle-free cleanup.
Your favorite toppings: One of the absolute best parts of homemade oatmeal is the endless opportunity to customize it with your favorite toppings! I personally love a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup, a comforting sprinkle of warming ground cinnamon, and a handful of fresh berries or brightly sliced bananas. My kids, on the other hand, often enjoy a splash of almond milk and a fun mix of their favorite additions. We love experimenting with different combinations each day, making every bowl feel like a new and exciting breakfast adventure! The possibilities are truly endless, but here are some additional ideas to inspire your oatmeal creations:
- Frozen mixed berries or fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Perfectly sliced bananas
- Creamy peanut butter or almond butter (for an extra protein and healthy fat boost)
- Diced apples and/or a spoonful of smooth apple sauce
- Sweet raisins, dried cranberries, or other favorite dried fruits
- Crunchy nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts (for a satisfying texture contrast)
- A touch of raw sugar or brown sugar (if you prefer more sweetness)
- A dollop of rich coconut milk or coconut cream (for tropical creaminess)
- Decadent chocolate chips (a special treat!)
- Warming pumpkin pie spice or other seasonal spices
Want to add an easy protein boost to your healthy breakfast? Consider pairing your oats with this simple homemade chicken breakfast sausage recipe!
Instructions
Whether you own any brand of Electric Pressure Cooker (like an Instant Pot) or prefer the simplicity of a Slow Cooker, you can effortlessly prepare delicious steel cut oats using these straightforward instructions.
To make Instant Pot steel cut oatmeal, simply follow these easy steps:
1. Prepare the Pot: Lightly spray the inner pot of your Instant Pot with cooking oil spray. This crucial step creates a non-stick surface and prevents the oats from sticking. Then, add in your steel cut oats, the measured water, a dash of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the optional cinnamon. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined at the bottom of the pot.
2. Set and Go (or Delay!): Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making absolutely sure the sealing valve is in the ‘Sealing’ position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting (depending on your model) and set the active cooking time for 10 minutes. For an overnight, truly hands-off experience, press the ‘Delay Start’ or ‘Timer’ button (the specific name may vary depending on your Instant Pot model). Use the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ buttons to set the desired delay time – remember to factor in approximately 30 minutes for the pot to come to pressure and naturally release after the delay period. I typically set mine for 7-8 hours before I head to bed, so a warm, ready breakfast greets me when I wake up!
3. Natural Release & Serve: Once the cooking cycle is complete, it’s essential to allow the Instant Pot to perform a Full Natural Release (NR). This means you do not manually vent the pressure; instead, allow it to release on its own until the float valve drops completely. This natural release process is vital for the oats to absorb the remaining liquid thoroughly and achieve their signature creamy, perfect texture. Once the float valve has dropped and it’s safe to open the lid, carefully remove it and give your hot oatmeal a good stir. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings! I personally adore mine with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a teaspoon of pure maple syrup. My kids often prefer a simple splash of almond milk stirred into theirs.
To make steel cut oats in the Slow Cooker: (An excellent alternative for continuous warmth)
1. Prepare & Combine: Begin by generously spraying the interior of your slow cooker with cooking oil spray to prevent any sticking. Add 1 cup of steel cut oats, 4 cups of water (or a mix of water and milk for even creamier results), and the optional cinnamon and vanilla extract. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
2. Slow Cook to Perfection: Place the lid securely on your slow cooker. Cook the oats on the ‘Low’ setting for 7-8 hours. This extended, gentle cooking process will yield a wonderfully creamy and tender oatmeal texture that’s perfect for a leisurely morning.
3. Serve with Toppings: Once cooked, give the oats a good stir. Ladle the warm oatmeal into individual serving bowls and top each serving generously with fresh fruit, a dash of cinnamon, and a teaspoon of maple syrup, or any other preferred additions to customize your breakfast experience.
How to Set Your Delay Start Timer to Make Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats
Mastering the ‘Delay Start’ function on your Instant Pot is key to truly hands-free breakfast prep. The goal is to time it so the oats finish cooking and releasing pressure roughly 30 minutes before you plan to eat them. This window accounts for the time it takes for the pot to build pressure, the actual cooking time, and the essential natural pressure release, ensuring your oatmeal is perfectly warm and ready when you are.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to setting up your Instant Pot for ‘Overnight’ Steel Cut Oats:
- Add Ingredients & Seal: First, add your measured water and steel cut oats (along with any other chosen ingredients like vanilla and salt) into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Secure the lid firmly and ensure the sealing valve is in the ‘Sealing’ position, exactly as you would for any standard pressure cooking.
- Select Pressure Cook Time: Press the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ button (the exact label may vary by model). Then, use the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ buttons to select the *active* cooking time to 10 minutes (as specified in this particular recipe for steel cut oats).
- Initiate Delay Start (Hours): Next, locate and press the ‘Timer’ or ‘Delay Start’ button (again, the specific label might differ based on your Instant Pot model). You’ll notice the hour display on the Instant Pot panel begin to flash. Use the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ buttons to select the number of full hours you wish to delay the start of the cooking cycle from the current moment.
- Set Delay Start (Minutes – if applicable): Press the ‘Timer’ or ‘Delay Start’ button once more. The minute display will now flash. Use the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ buttons to adjust the minutes, typically in 10-minute increments, if your Instant Pot model allows for more granular control. This allows for precise timing to align with your morning wake-up.
- Confirm & Rest: After a few seconds, your Instant Pot will typically emit a reassuring beep, indicating that the delay timer has been successfully set. A green light on the ‘Timer’ button will usually illuminate, and the display will begin counting down your chosen delay time. Now, you’re free to go to bed, confident that your healthy and delicious breakfast will be ready and waiting for you when you are!
Recipe FAQs
Understanding the distinctions between different types of oats can help you choose the right one for your culinary needs and desired texture.
Steel Cut Oats are the least processed form of oats. They are essentially whole oat groats (the hulled kernels of the oat grain) that have been cut into two or three smaller pieces using a sharp steel blade – hence their name. This minimal processing gives them a distinctive, hearty, and chewy texture, along with a robust, nutty flavor. Due to their dense nature, steel cut oats take the longest to cook through traditional stovetop methods, typically requiring 20-30 minutes of simmering with frequent stirring to prevent sticking.
Rolled oats, also widely known as old-fashioned oats, undergo a bit more processing. They are first steamed, which partially cooks them, and then rolled flat into flakes. This process significantly increases their surface area, allowing them to cook much more quickly than steel cut oats, usually in about 5-10 minutes. Rolled oats have a softer, creamier texture and a milder flavor, making them incredibly versatile for a wide range of recipes from everyday oatmeal to various baked goods and granola.
When it comes to nutrition, it’s important to note that all unprocessed or minimally processed oats are highly nutritious and excellent choices for a healthy diet, far superior to instant oatmeal packets laden with excessive sugar and artificial flavors. Oats are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, plant-based protein, and complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy throughout your day.
Specifically, steel-cut oats do boast a slightly lower glycemic index (GI) compared to rolled oats. This means they are digested and absorbed more slowly by the body, leading to a more gradual and stable rise in blood sugar levels, which can be particularly beneficial for blood sugar management. The reason for this lower GI is directly related to their less processed nature and denser structure, requiring more time and effort for your digestive system to break them down.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the difference in glycemic index between steel cut and rolled oats is not dramatically significant, and both types remain classified as low-glycemic foods.
Ultimately, the ‘best’ type of oats for you truly comes down to personal preference, cooking time availability, and desired texture. If you appreciate a hearty, chewy texture and a pronounced nutty flavor, steel cut oats are an excellent choice. If you prefer a softer, quicker-cooking option, or if you’re consistently short on time in the mornings, then rolled oats are a perfectly healthy and convenient alternative. Both contribute significantly to a balanced and nutritious diet.
The ‘Delay Start’ button (or ‘Timer’ button on older Instant Pot models) is a remarkably convenient feature that allows you to prepare your ingredients in advance and then program the appliance to begin its cooking cycle at a later, specified time. This function is a true game-changer for meal planning, especially for breakfast or other time-sensitive meals where you want food ready upon waking or arriving home. I find it particularly invaluable for recipes like these Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats, but it’s also fantastic for prepping other shelf-stable grains such as rice, quinoa, or even certain soups that don’t contain perishable ingredients.
While the Delay Start function offers incredible convenience, it’s vital to use it judiciously and with food safety in mind. I strongly advise against using the delay start button for any ingredients that require constant refrigeration, such as raw meats, eggs, or dairy products, unless your delay period is very short (e.g., thirty minutes to an hour at most). Allowing perishable foods to sit at room temperature for extended periods can lead to rapid bacterial growth and significant food safety risks.
However, it is perfectly safe and highly recommended for pantry staples that are stable at room temperature. This includes ingredients like dried pasta, various dried grains (such as rice, quinoa), dried beans, and, of course, Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats! For these items, the delay start button is an ideal tool for hands-free, convenient cooking without compromising safety.
Meal Prep and Storage
This hassle-free recipe is an absolute dream for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy, warm breakfasts ready to go throughout your busy week with minimal effort.
To prep ahead: After cooking your Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats, allow them to cool completely at room temperature to prevent condensation. Once cooled, portion the oats into individual serving containers – glass mason jars are an excellent choice for this, as they are airtight, reusable, and perfectly sized for grab-and-go breakfasts. You can even add any desired toppings (like nuts or dried fruit) to the individual containers at this stage, so they are ready to eat. Store these pre-portioned oats in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making your morning routine incredibly efficient and stress-free.
To store: Cooked steel cut oats can be stored effectively in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining their freshness and texture. For longer storage options, they are also wonderfully freezer-friendly and can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months without compromising their quality or flavor.
To freeze: For optimal freezing and easy portioning, ensure the cooked steel cut oats have cooled completely. Then, portion them into individual servings. I highly recommend using silicone molds, such as my Silicone Egg Bites Molds or Souper Cubes for this, which allow for perfect single servings that are easy to pop out. Alternatively, a regular muffin tin works just as well. Once the portions are frozen solid, you can easily pop them out of the molds and transfer them to larger ziplock freezer bags or airtight freezer-safe containers. This saves valuable freezer space and makes it simple to grab just the amount you need. You can even freeze them with your favorite toppings already mixed in for ultimate convenience!
To reheat: To reheat steel cut oats that have been stored in the refrigerator, simply transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through to your liking. If you prefer, you can also reheat them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if they seem too thick, to restore their creamy consistency.
To reheat frozen steel cut oats, microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated through. Again, if using the stovetop, reheat over low heat, adding a little milk or water as needed to achieve your desired consistency and ensure they are perfectly warm and delicious.
Looking for More Healthy Oatmeal Recipes? Check These Out!
Overnight Oats – 5 Ways!
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TikTok Blender Baked Oats – 4 Ways
Warm Gingerbread Oatmeal | The Foodie and The Fix
Coconut Overnight Oats | Carrie Elle
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“Overnight” Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats using the Delay Timer
Nancylynn
4
-6 servings
Pin Recipe
1 minute
10 minutes
30 minutes
Ingredients
-
Cooking oil spray
I use coconut or avocado, but any cooking oil spray works -
1
cup
Bob’s Red Mills Gluten Free Steel Cut Oats -
2 ½
cups
water -
pinch of salt -
1/2
tsp
cinnamon
optional -
1/2
tsp
vanilla extract
optional
Optional Toppings
-
maple syrup/honey -
fruit and nut toppers
or even some nut butter! -
splash of almond milk
my kids like it with some milk
Instructions
Instant Pot
-
(Optional) Spray inner pot with cooking oil spray, then add in oats, water, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
-
Lock Instant Pot lid and set to 10 minutes on manual/pressure cook. Then, press the ‘Delay Start’ or ‘Timer’ button and set the timer for the amount of time you want to delay cooking (allow about 30 minutes total for cook time + natural release after the delay). I typically set it for 7-8 hours overnight.
-
After cooking, perform a Full Natural Release. Once safe to open, remove lid and stir. Enjoy your hot breakfast, topped with fruit, cinnamon, and a tsp of maple syrup. My kids often add some milk.
Slow Cooker
-
Spray slow cooker with cooking oil spray. Add 1 cup of oats, 4 cups of water (or half water/half milk), cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Stir well.
-
Cook the oats, covered, on low for 7-8 hours.
-
Top each serving with fruit, cinnamon, and a tsp of maple syrup, or other preferred toppings.
Video
Notes
Want to double the batch for more servings? Go right ahead! Simply double the amount of oats and the water.
21 Day Fix: 1 YELLOW container plus toppings (per 1/2 cup serving)
WW: 4 points plus toppings (per serving)
Nutrition
Calories: 154kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 0.4g
Sodium: 7mg
Fiber: 4g
Calcium: 24mg
Iron: 2mg
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