Creamy Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats Recipe
Introduction
Mornings can be hectic. Between getting ready for work, packing lunches, and trying to get the kids out the door, finding time to enjoy a healthy breakfast seems impossible. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in. It can help you whip up a creamy bowl of steel cut oats in no time, and the best part is that you don’t have to stand over the stove stirring for 30 minutes. Steel cut oats are known for their hearty texture and rich flavor, but they often take longer to cook compared to other types of oats. Fortunately, the Instant Pot cuts down the cooking time significantly while preserving that perfect chewy texture and creamy consistency. Whether you’re a busy professional or just someone looking for a wholesome, filling breakfast, this recipe is here to help make your mornings easier and more nutritious.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make steel cut oats in your Instant Pot, provide tips for customization, and give you all the details you need to enjoy a delicious and healthy breakfast. Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of oats that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy Instant Pot steel cut oats recipe. Thankfully, it doesn’t require many ingredients, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry or fridge.
1 cup steel cut oats – The star of the recipe! Steel cut oats are less processed than rolled oats, and they provide more fiber and nutrients. They give the dish a delightful chewiness.
3 ½ cups water – Water helps cook the oats. You can adjust the liquid based on your preference for creaminess.
½ cup milk – This adds a rich and creamy texture. You can use dairy or a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk depending on your dietary preferences.
1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil – For a smooth and rich texture. You can skip this if you prefer a lighter version, but it enhances the flavor.
Pinch of salt – Just a small amount of salt to bring out the flavor of the oats.
Fresh fruits – Bananas, berries, or apples work wonderfully.
Sweeteners – Maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar to add sweetness.
Chopped nuts – Walnuts, almonds, or pecans for some crunch.
Spices – Cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to warm up the flavor.
Chia seeds or flaxseeds – For a little extra fiber and omega-3s.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Steel cut oats | 1 cup | 300 |
| Water | 3.5 cups | 0 |
| Milk (2% dairy) | ½ cup | 60 |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | 100 |
| Salt | pinch | 0 |
| Total (base) | 460 |
Note: Calorie count will vary based on optional toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started! The beauty of making steel cut oats in the Instant Pot is how easy it is. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy bowl of oats in less than 30 minutes.
First, if you’re using butter or coconut oil for extra creaminess and flavor, turn on your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Add the butter or coconut oil and let it melt. This step is optional, but it gives your oats a lovely richness. Once the fat has melted, you can move on to the next step.
Add the steel cut oats into the Instant Pot, followed by the water, milk (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine everything. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the liquid, ensuring that the oats cook perfectly.
Seal the lid of your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Then, set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 4 minutes. Yes, only 4 minutes! While steel cut oats normally take longer to cook on the stove, the Instant Pot works wonders to speed up the process.
Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the oats to continue cooking and absorb the remaining liquid. After this time, turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. Be careful during this step, as steam can escape quickly.
Once the pressure is released, carefully remove the lid and give the oats a good stir. They may appear a bit watery initially, but don’t worry—stirring helps thicken the oats and create a creamy texture. If you prefer thicker oats, let them sit with the lid off for a few minutes to absorb more liquid.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
The beauty of steel cut oats is that they’re highly customizable, so you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
For Extra Creaminess: Swap out some of the water for more milk, or use a richer milk alternative like coconut milk for a truly creamy texture.
Add Protein: If you want to make your oats even more filling, consider adding a scoop of protein powder after cooking. Alternatively, you can stir in nut butter or Greek yogurt for an extra boost of protein.
Boost the Flavor: Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract before cooking for a warm, comforting flavor.
Go Savory: Skip the sweeteners and try savory toppings like sautéed spinach, a fried egg, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a unique breakfast option.
Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water for an easy breakfast throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Based on a base recipe that yields 4 servings, here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value for each serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~115 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 45mg |
| Calcium | 4% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Note: These values are approximate and will change based on the type of milk and toppings you use.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your oats are ready, it’s time to make them your own. Here are a few delicious ways to serve your creamy Instant Pot steel cut oats:
Top your oats with sliced bananas, fresh berries, or apples. Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans on top for some texture. You can also stir in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter.
Stir in sautéed apples with cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy fall-inspired bowl of oats.
Use coconut milk and top with pineapple chunks and shredded coconut for a refreshing tropical twist.
Conclusion
Making creamy steel cut oats in the Instant Pot is a total game changer for your mornings. With minimal prep time and no need to babysit the stove, you can have a warm, comforting, and healthy breakfast ready in no time. Plus, the recipe is so versatile that you can easily customize it to fit your personal preferences. Whether you like your oats sweet or savory, topped with fruits, nuts, or spices, the Instant Pot helps you create the perfect bowl every time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a nutritious start to your day!