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Learn to make Instant Pot oatmeal in no time! It’s as easy as pouring in the oatmeal and water, and pressing a button. The Instant Pot can transform your mornings, giving you more time to enjoy this delicious breakfast/snack.
So I have to admit that for the majority of my life, I didn’t like oatmeal. Or at least, I didn’t “think” I liked it. I tried it many times, but the texture never did it for me. But I finally realized that I never had oatmeal MY way (more firm with tons of toppings). This was a game changer for me.
So if you aren’t an oatmeal lover (not sure why you’d be reading this post if not haha, but you never know!) I implore you to give it another shot and experiment with what may work for you.
Pressure Cooker vs. On the Stove:
After realizing that I actually liked oatmeal, I made it on the stove and it boiled over. Have you ever had this happen? If so, you can understand how ridiculously messy, gross, and frustrating it can be to clean it up. UGH. And this is why the Instant Pot/pressure cooker is a dream come true for oatmeal!
Yes, while the Instant Pot may not be “instant” (it does take time to build and release pressure), I find a lot of joy in the fact I can “set it and forget it”, with no possibility of the pot boiling over! No dirty stove- just fresh, hot oatmeal ready to top with your favorites and enjoy.
Pro tips for perfect oatmeal every time:
- This recipe calls for 2 1/2 to 3 cups water. For this amount, it will all depend on how thick/thin you like your oatmeal. If you’re not sure, err on the side of less with 2 1/2 cups water (you can always add a bit more plant-based milk later to thin it out).
- Some 8-quart Instant Pots may give a “burn” message. If you have any issues, I highly recommend checking out this blog post—> Instant Pot Burn Message– which can help you troubleshoot the issue. And if you do have an 8-quart, I’d recommend adding at least 3 cups water to avoid getting that burn message.
- Make sure that your Instant Pot lid is properly sealed (meaning the sealing ring is properly in place and clean) before securing the lid. If not sealed properly, the oatmeal may burn and stick to the bottom of the pot.
- To double the recipe, use the same cooking time (6 minutes).
- Generally, I made this recipe using water. But I also recommend trying out organic apple juice for a tart/sweet twist!
How to make Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats
First, add the steel cut oats and the water to the Instant Pot.
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and lock. Then press the Porridge button (you can also use Manual/Pressure Cook) and set to 6 minutes. Turn the knob on the top of the lid to ‘Sealing’ (not venting).
The Instant Pot will turn on and start to build pressure. After about 10 minutes, the timer will automatically set to 6 minutes.
When the 6 minutes are done, it will need to sit for an additional 8-10 minutes to release the pressure (you will see the L0:02, etc. on the screen which means it is releasing pressure).
After the the pressure is released, remove the lid. (Note: If the pressure is not released, you won’t be able to open it).
Stir and add the oatmeal to a bowl, and add toppings of choice (see below for topping ideas). Store this oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-6 days. Note: the oatmeal will thicken more as is sits.
Topping ideas:
- I love using chopped Medjool dates, but you can also use this easy Date Paste for a smoother sweet addition. Stir in the date paste to the cooked oatmeal.
- strawberries, flaxseed, chopped Medjool dates, unsweetened coconut flakes and cinnamon (in the photo shown below)
- dates, pecans, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar
- bananas, blueberries, walnuts, and maple syrup
- blackberries, dates, and almond butter
- vegan chocolate chips, unsweetened coconut flakes, and peanut butter (a great dessert option!)
- Serve this oatmeal with a glass of Homemade Almond Milk. YUM!
- Add some homemade Walnut Butter, mixed with cocoa powder and maple syrup.
This recipe makes a total of 2 1/2 cups cooked oatmeal (if using 2 1/2 cups water), which is roughly 2/3 cup per serving. If you use more water, it may change the serving size.
Helpful Tools:
- Instant Pot– If you don’t have an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, this is a good one.
- Measuring Cups– I love to have a variety of different sizes.
If you try this recipe, please let me know! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag your photo with #veggie__chick on Instagram. I just love to see my recipes being made in YOUR kitchen!
Instant Pot Oatmeal
Pin RateEquipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup steel cut oats - or regular old-fashioned oats- gluten free if desired
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups water - use the lesser amount for thicker oatmeal
Instructions
- Add the steel cut oats and water to the Instant Pot. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and lock. Press the Porridge button if your pressure cooker has one (or you can also use Manual/Pressure Cook). Set to 6 minutes, and turn the knob on the top of the lid to 'Sealing' (not venting). The Instant Pot will automatically turn on and start to build pressure. After about 10 minutes, the timer will set to 6 minutes and it will begin to cook.
- After the 6 minutes are done, let it sit for an additional 8-10 minutes to release the pressure (you will see the L0:02, etc. on the screen which means it is releasing pressure on low heat). When the pressure is released, remove the lid. (Note: If the pressure is not released, you won't be able to open it).
- Stir and add the cooked oatmeal to a bowl, and add toppings of choice. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-6 days. Note: the oatmeal will thicken more as is sits. See more important tips below…
Video
Notes
- This recipe calls for 2 1/2 to 3 cups water. For this amount, it will all depend on how thick/thin you like your oatmeal. If you’re not sure, err on the side of less with 2 1/2 cups water (you can always add a bit more plant-based milk later to thin it out).
- Some 8-quart Instant Pots may give a “burn” message. If you have any issues, I highly recommend checking out this blog post—> Instant Pot Burn Message– which can help you troubleshoot the issue. And if you do have an 8-quart, I’d recommend adding at least 3 cups water to avoid getting that burn message.
- Make sure that your Instant Pot lid is properly sealed (meaning the sealing ring is properly in place and clean) before securing the lid. If not sealed properly, the oatmeal may burn and stick to the bottom of the pot.
- To double the recipe, use the same cooking time (6 minutes).
- Generally, I made this recipe using water. But I also recommend trying out organic apple juice for a tart/sweet twist!
- Serve this oatmeal with my Homemade Almond Milk. Yum.
- This recipe makes a total of 2 1/2 cups cooked oatmeal (if using 2 1/2 cups water), which is roughly 2/3 cup per serving. If you use more water, it may change the serving size.
- Nutrition information below is for cooked steel-cut oatmeal only and does not include any toppings.
- Topping Ideas: Date Paste, strawberries, bananas, blueberries, blackberries, apples, pears, golden raisins, chopped Medjool dates, cinnamon, flaxseed, coconut flakes, peanut or almond butter, maple syrup or agave, brown sugar, all kinds of nut, vegan chocolate chips, etc.
Nutrition
Update Notes: This post was originally published in June 2017, but was republished with new photos, step by step instructions, tips, and FAQs in September 2019.
Farah says
hi! Yes, it was sealed properly. I made it again the next day and double the recipe. But I made sure to let it sit longer – maybe 25 minutes? And it was totally fine! Thank you so much 🙂
Christin McKamey says
Oh YAY! So happy to hear that! Glad you like the recipe and it’s helpful to you. =)
Farah says
Hi! I just made this (2 C oats 6 C water) and it was perfect! However, I waited 15 minutes to release pressure and so much stuff spewed out of the valve. Your directions said to wait 8 min & I waited 15 just to be safe but it was such a mess on the top.
The oats were just perfect so I’ll definitely make it again, just wondering how much longer I should wait next time. Thanks!
Christin McKamey says
Hi Farah, there shouldn’t be anything spewing out of the valve. Every Instant Pot seems to be a little different so I’d suggest waiting for around 20=25 minutes or so until all the pressure is gone. But honestly, the fact it’s coming out of the valve is a bit strange. Did you make sure the valve was securely clipped to the lid? I had another reader that had a similar issue and it was a valve problem. Once she got it fixed, it worked great. Either way, glad you liked the recipe! =)
Bb says
I also got a burn message, and burn at the bottom of the pot. I doubled the recipe. And added cinnamon and apple pieces. It smells good but I don’t think I’ll make the recipe again because of the issues with the burning… Not sure how to change this
Christin McKamey says
Hi there. It seems there is an issue with newer model Instant Pots and burning. I’ve done a lot of research and I think this article sums it up pretty well. I hope this helps! =) https://www.paintthekitchenred.com/instant-pot-burn-message/?fbclid=IwAR3782NPmrO4JZKwLBHqIGPt9ZsCN3224oB3c7m3Mdi6MBRi_n2MTqaQfuw
Fatimazahra says
Hiya! Love this recipe thank you! Using it whilst weaning my baby. Can I use cows milk instead of water however? Thank you
Christin McKamey says
Hi there! I know you can use any type of plant milk (almond, etc), but I don’t drink cow’s milk so I’m not sure! =)
Bob says
I doubled the recipe the 2nd time and got the burn message. I won’t double again. I also think using hot water would help.
Victoria says
I made porridge yesterday, using the manual setting, but it threw a ‘burn’ error. Today, I used the recipe on the ‘porridge’ button and left it to naturally release for about three minutes, then slowly let out the rest of the steam. It was slightly caught on the bottom, but no ‘burn’ error was given and it completed the time. I have read that the Duo pots are more prone to the burn error, which is what I have. On this occasion, I didn’t stir the oatmeal in; I put the water/almond milk in first then just sprinkled it on top. I don’t have an issue with cleaning the pot; it’s stainless steel, so quite easy. Lovely recipe and my husband thoroughly enjoyed it too, thank you.
Christin McKamey says
Thanks for the update Victoria! That’s interesting that the Duo pots are more prone to error. I don’t have one; maybe that’s why others have experienced it. I generally use the porridge setting as well. Actually I just made some this morning and it worked like a charm. So glad you enjoyed the recipe! =)
Ms Glen says
I too have had the “burn” come up but I stay close and have been able to stop it before it made a big mess. I’ve used several different receipts and use the pressure setting. Thinking of using the porridge setting next. I’m not giving up! I use cinnamon dried cranberries chopped walnuts and a quarter cup of milled flax seed. One cup extra water. No sugar although there is a little on the cranberries.
Christin McKamey says
Hi, let us know how the porridge setting works out for you. It works great for me every time! =)
Christin McKamey says
Hi Ms Glen. It seems there is an issue with newer model Instant Pots and burning. I’ve done a lot of research and found many reasons for it, but I think this article sums it up pretty well. I hope this helps! =) https://www.paintthekitchenred.com/instant-pot-burn-message/?fbclid=IwAR3782NPmrO4JZKwLBHqIGPt9ZsCN3224oB3c7m3Mdi6MBRi_n2MTqaQfuw
keith says
Thanks for posting this. Tripled the batch and it worked perfect in the 8qt instant pot. Very creamy.
Christin McKamey says
Awesome, thank you Keith!! =)
Christin McKamey says
Hi Bob, I’ve had a lot of people try this recipe with success so I’m not sure what happened. Did you have the Instant Pot set to Sealing? I’ve heard of a couple other people burning it and this was always the problem. One person pulled the Sealing knob out and it caused the oatmeal to burn because it was not properly sealed while cooking. Thanks.
Liz says
I doubled the recipe and added cinnamon, cut up apples, fresh nutmeg, and a tablespoon of brown sugar. At the end of the cook cycle it was still bit watery so I turned on the brown/sear setting of my IP and let it bubble for a few minutes. The result was super fluffy, creamy oatmeal. I’ll be making my oatmeal in my IP from now on.
Christin McKamey says
Yay thanks Liz! So happy it worked well for you. Yes, it can be a bit watery but it will thicken a lot over time. Thanks! =)
Helen says
Is this really any faster than doing it on the hob? I use a double boiler so I don’t have to stir it and nothing ever sticks. It takes about 30 minutes total, which sounds like it’s about the same as using the Instant Pot. When I remember, I just add the porridge and boiling water to a thermos flask the night before and it’s ready to eat in the morning without any further cooking at all. I have no objection to using the Instant Pot if that really is better–it’s just a lot of trouble to get it out of the pantry and set it up when the kitchen stove is sitting right there. If it tastes better in the IP, or something like that, I’ll certainly try it.
Christin McKamey says
Hi Helen, it sounds like your way is working for you nicely so I would just stick to that. I think it’s honestly about the same time, but for me, it’s a convenience thing. I pull out the Instant Pot, set it up, then take a shower in the morning and by the time I’m ready to eat the oatmeal is ready for me. So I can just “set it and forget it”. I’ve boiled over my oatmeal one too many times so this helps. =)
Jessica says
Ok I was sceptical….it’s absolutely perfect!! Need more recipes!
Christin McKamey says
Haha thanks Jessica! =)
Ann Petrovich says
I used Costco Coach Steelcut oatmeal. After a few min on porridge my IP said burn. I used 3 cup water for 1 cup oats. Am I using the wrong steel cut oats for this recipe? Thank you
Christin McKamey says
Hi Ann. It seems there is an issue with newer model Instant Pots and burning. I’ve done a lot of research and found many reasons for it, but I think this article sums it up pretty well. I hope this helps! =) https://www.paintthekitchenred.com/instant-pot-burn-message/?fbclid=IwAR3782NPmrO4JZKwLBHqIGPt9ZsCN3224oB3c7m3Mdi6MBRi_n2MTqaQfuw
Angelica Reyes says
I always buy oatmeal at work because I love how it comes out fluffy, but I’ve never been able to duplicate that til now. So easy, and I make a double batch to eat throughout the week. I’m saving $3/day!! Thanks for perfect oatmeal.
Christin McKamey says
Hi Angelica, yay for saving $$$! That’s awesome. So happy you found this recipe useful. =)
Leslie says
Thank You! I was making it to take to a breakfast so I just doubled it…using 3 cups of water/cup of oats. It turned out perfectly….was about 20 minutes natural release.
Christin McKamey says
Awesome, thanks Leslie! Glad you like it. =)
Leslie says
If I triple the recipe will I still use the same time? I imagine it will take longer to get up to pressure, but the 6 min cook time still good?
Christin McKamey says
Hi Leslie, I have doubled the recipe and it works great using the same time, 6 minutes. I would say tripling the recipe depends on how big your instant pot is. Just be careful about overflowing it. 🙂
Karina F says
Hi again. Just ignore my question. Both are at high pressure! Blame it on lack of sleep! Oatmeal in IP now. Can’t wait!
Christin McKamey says
Oh good, glad it’s working!