Creamy Instant Pot Oatmeal

Start your day right with the ultimate guide to making the creamiest, most delicious Instant Pot Oatmeal. This fail-proof recipe utilizes old-fashioned rolled oats, milk (dairy or almond), and water to create a perfectly cooked breakfast that’s ready to be customized with your favorite toppings. Forget constant stirring and scorched bottoms – your pressure cooker delivers a hands-free, consistently smooth oatmeal experience every time!

Ready to revolutionize your breakfast routine? This Instant Pot Oatmeal recipe offers a swift, stress-free, and incredibly tasty way to enjoy a hearty bowl of oats. Whether you’re a seasoned pressure cooker enthusiast or just starting, you’ll love how effortlessly you can achieve perfectly creamy oatmeal without the hassle of stovetop cooking. We’ll dive into why the Instant Pot is the superior method, explore different oat types, and inspire you with a plethora of delicious topping ideas.

Table of Contents:

• Why Make Oatmeal in the Instant Pot?
• Essential Ingredients for Perfect Instant Pot Oatmeal
• How to Make Instant Pot Oatmeal: A Simple Guide
• Choosing Your Oats: Types and Cooking Times
• Creative Variations & Topping Ideas for Your Oatmeal
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Instant Pot Oatmeal
• Expert Tips for Instant Pot Oatmeal Success
• More Instant Pot Recipes to Explore
• Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe Card

Why Make Oatmeal in the Instant Pot?

Ever since my Instant Pot arrived, it has transformed the way I cook, proving its versatility with everything from tender pot roasts to decadent cheesecakes. Now, it’s also my go-to for making oatmeal, and for good reason! This method is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and low-effort breakfast. Here’s why Instant Pot oatmeal stands out:

• Hands-Free Cooking: The biggest advantage is the lack of stirring! Unlike stovetop oatmeal that requires constant attention to prevent burning or sticking, the Instant Pot handles everything on its own. Just set it and forget it.
• Consistently Creamy Texture: The pressure cooking environment creates an incredibly creamy and fluffy texture that’s hard to achieve on the stovetop. The oats absorb the liquid evenly and become wonderfully tender without turning into a gloopy mess.
• Speed and Efficiency: While stovetop oatmeal isn’t overly long, the Instant Pot shaves off precious minutes from your morning routine, especially considering the hands-off nature. The actual cook time is minimal, allowing you to get other things done while breakfast cooks itself.
• Fail-Proof Results: I’ve extensively tested various oat-to-liquid ratios to ensure this recipe is truly fail-proof. You won’t encounter burnt bottoms or undercooked oats. It’s designed for consistent success every time.
• Easy Customization: This base recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s simple to make it vegan by using almond milk and coconut oil, and it provides the perfect canvas for endless topping combinations, from sweet fruits and nuts to savory additions.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Instant Pot Oatmeal

Crafting a delicious bowl of Instant Pot oatmeal requires just a handful of basic ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect creamy consistency and rich flavor:

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These are the star of our recipe. Rolled oats are partially cooked and flattened, allowing them to cook relatively quickly while maintaining a good texture. They are ideal for creating a wonderfully chewy yet creamy oatmeal. Avoid instant oats for this recipe, as they tend to overcook and become mushy under pressure.
• Liquid Base (Milk and Water): We use a combination of water and milk for the optimal creamy texture.
  • Water: Essential for pressure cooking. It helps build steam and cook the oats thoroughly.
  • Milk: Adds a rich, creamy depth of flavor. You can use any type of milk you prefer. Almond milk is a fantastic option for a vegan recipe or if you simply enjoy its subtle nutty flavor. Other great choices include 2% milk, skim milk, oat milk, or soy milk. The higher the fat content in the milk, the richer your oatmeal will be.
• Butter or Coconut Oil: A small amount of fat makes a big difference in the final texture. It contributes to the luxurious creaminess and prevents the oats from sticking. For a vegan version, coconut oil is an excellent substitute for butter, adding a lovely subtle flavor.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is vital to bring out the natural sweetness of the oats and balance the flavors. Don’t skip it, even in sweet oatmeal recipes, as it enhances the overall taste profile significantly.
• Vanilla Extract (Optional but Recommended): Added after cooking, vanilla extract infuses the oatmeal with a warm, comforting aroma and flavor. It’s a simple addition that elevates the entire dish.

How to Make Instant Pot Oatmeal: A Simple Guide

Making oatmeal in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast:

1. Prepare the Pot: Ensure the inner pot is properly seated in your Instant Pot. Pour in the specified amounts of water and milk.
2. Add Ingredients: Add the old-fashioned rolled oats, butter (or coconut oil), and salt to the liquid. Give it a quick stir to combine everything.
3. Seal and Set: Close the Instant Pot lid securely and turn the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position.
4. Program the Cooker: Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting. Ensure it’s set to “High Pressure.” Set the cooking time to 3 minutes.
5. Pressure Build-Up: The Instant Pot will now begin to build pressure, which typically takes about 6-10 minutes, depending on the volume of liquid and the starting temperature.
6. Natural Pressure Release (NPR): Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep. Do NOT immediately open the valve. Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and preventing a foamy overflow.
7. Open and Stir: After the natural pressure release, carefully open the lid away from your face. Be cautious of any remaining steam. Stir the oatmeal well.
8. Add Vanilla: Let the oatmeal sit for 3-5 minutes, then stir in the vanilla extract (if using).
9. Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your creamy Instant Pot oatmeal and top it with your favorite fruits, nuts, sweeteners, or other delicious additions.

Choosing Your Oats: Types and Cooking Times

Not all oats are created equal, and understanding the differences is key to successful Instant Pot oatmeal. The type of oats you choose will significantly impact the cooking time and the required liquid-to-oat ratio. Here’s a breakdown:

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These are the recommended oats for this recipe. They are whole oat groats that have been steamed and then rolled flat. This process makes them cook faster than steel-cut oats, and they retain a pleasant chewiness while becoming wonderfully creamy under pressure.
  • Ratio: 1 cup oats to 2 cups liquid (I prefer a mix of water and milk for best results).
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes at high pressure.
• Steel-Cut Oats: Also known as Irish oats, these are oat groats that have been cut into two or three smaller pieces rather than rolled. They are less processed, have a chewier texture, and a nuttier flavor. They require more liquid and a longer cooking time.
  • Ratio: 1 cup oats to 3 cups liquid.
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes at high pressure, followed by a full natural pressure release.
• Instant Oats (Quick Oats): These oats are pre-cooked, dried, and then rolled and cut into smaller pieces than old-fashioned oats. They are designed for super-fast cooking (often with just boiling water).
  • Recommendation: I do NOT recommend using instant oats in this Instant Pot recipe. The pressure cooking environment will cause them to overcook rapidly, resulting in a completely mushy, unappetizing texture. They are best reserved for stovetop or microwave preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Instant Pot Oatmeal

Can I make this in a 3-quart Instant Pot?

Yes! This recipe is perfectly suited for smaller Instant Pot models, including the 3-quart size. The cooking time remains the same. You can also easily double the amount of ingredients to make a larger batch without changing the cook time.

Do I need to use milk, or can I use just water?

You can absolutely use just water to make these oats. However, I highly recommend incorporating milk (dairy or non-dairy) as it significantly contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor. My preferred ratio is 1 cup of water to 1 ¼ cups of milk for the best results.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, Instant Pot oatmeal is excellent for meal prep! Cook a batch, allow it to cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen it up.

How do I prevent the “BURN” message on my Instant Pot?

The “BURN” message usually indicates that there isn’t enough liquid at the bottom of the pot, causing food to stick and scorch. For oatmeal, ensure you add the water first, then the milk, and then the oats and other ingredients without stirring vigorously, especially if using a thicker milk. This recipe is designed with adequate liquid, so sticking to the ratios is important. Also, ensure your sealing ring is properly seated.

Can I add fruits or sweeteners before cooking?

It’s generally best to add most fruits (especially berries) and sweeteners (like honey or maple syrup) after the oatmeal has finished cooking. Adding them beforehand can sometimes affect the pressure-building process or result in mushy fruit. Firmer fruits like chopped apples or dried fruits can sometimes be added before, but it’s often safer to stir them in at the end.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Oats are naturally gluten-free. However, cross-contamination can occur during processing. If you require strict gluten-free oatmeal, ensure you purchase certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Oatmeal Success

Achieving the perfect bowl of Instant Pot oatmeal is easy, but a few expert tips can elevate your results:

• Don’t Stir Before Cooking: After adding all ingredients to the pot, give it only a very gentle stir, just enough to combine. Avoid vigorous stirring, especially once the oats are added. You want the liquid to stay on the bottom to prevent a potential “BURN” message.
• Always Use Natural Pressure Release: The natural pressure release (NPR) is crucial for oatmeal. It allows the oats to continue absorbing liquid and swell, resulting in that incredibly creamy and perfectly cooked texture. A quick release can lead to foamy liquid spraying from the valve and a less desirable texture.
• Adjust Liquid for Desired Consistency: If you prefer a thinner oatmeal, you can add a splash more milk or water after cooking until it reaches your desired consistency. For a thicker oatmeal, simply let it sit for an extra few minutes before serving.
• Customize Your Sweetness: This recipe creates a lightly sweetened or unsweetened base. Add honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, or your preferred sweetener to taste after the oatmeal is cooked.
• For Vegan Options: To make this oatmeal entirely vegan, simply swap dairy milk for any plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, cashew milk all work wonderfully) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
• Scaling the Recipe: This recipe scales beautifully. You can easily double or triple the ingredients without adjusting the cooking time, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping.

More Instant Pot Recipes to Explore

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can simplify so many meals. If you enjoyed making oatmeal in it, you’ll love these other popular Instant Pot recipes:

• Instant Pot Yogurt
• Instant Pot Applesauce
• Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs
• Instant Pot Jam

Making delicious and nutritious oatmeal has never been easier, thanks to the Instant Pot. This hands-free method ensures a consistently creamy texture and frees up your morning, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome breakfast without the fuss. Experiment with different toppings and oat types to find your perfect bowl. Happy cooking!

If you like this recipe and make it, let me know in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate it if you enjoyed it!

Instant Pot Oatmeal

Author: Anna

Learn how to make the best Instant Pot Oatmeal with old-fashioned oats, milk (even almond) and water. They are creamy and delicious with a variety of toppings!

Prep Time: 2 mins

Cook Time: 3 mins

Natural Pressure Release: 10 mins

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Servings: 2 people

Calories: 284 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup water
• 1 ¼ cups milk (almond, 2% or skim)
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil or butter
• ⅛ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make sure the insert is in your Instant Pot. Pour water and milk into the Instant Pot.
2. Add oats, coconut oil and salt. Stir gently to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to sealing position.
4. Make sure the Instant Pot is set to cook at HIGH pressure.
5. Press “manual” or “pressure cook” setting and set timer to 3 minutes.
6. The appliance will beep and start building pressure, which can take about 6 minutes.
7. Once the cooking cycle is done, press “cancel/off” and unplug the Instant Pot. Do not switch the valve. Let the Instant Pot release the pressure naturally for about 10 minutes.
8. When the pressure pin is down, carefully open the lid away from your face. Stir the oatmeal. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes, then stir in the vanilla extract.
9. Serve with desired toppings.

Notes

1. Please note that the nutrition value can vary depending on the specific products you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise values.
2. If you are using steel-cut oats, use an additional cup of liquid (totaling 3 cups for 1 cup of oats) and set the timer to 4 minutes. Allow for a full natural pressure release.

Nutrition

Calories: 284kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 220mg | Potassium: 348mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 247IU | Calcium: 193mg | Iron: 2mg