Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats – The Creamiest, Easiest Breakfast Ever

Steel-cut oats are one of the most wholesome, filling, and nutrient-rich breakfast options. Their naturally nutty flavor and hearty texture make them a favorite for anyone who loves warm, cozy breakfasts. The only downside? They take a long time to cook on the stove.

That’s where the Instant Pot shines.

With the Instant Pot, steel-cut oats become a completely hands-off breakfast—no stirring, no watching the pot, no burning, no sticking. You simply add the ingredients, press a button, and return to a perfectly creamy bowl of oats every single time.

This recipe combines simplicity and nutrition for the ideal everyday breakfast. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for the whole family, Instant Pot steel-cut oats are reliable, customizable, and unbelievably easy.

Why Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats Are Perfect

1. Zero babysitting

The pressure cooker handles the simmering and timing.

2. Creamy texture every time

Steel-cut oats hold up beautifully under pressure; they become creamy but not mushy.

3. Customizable

Sweet, savory, fruity, nutty—use any mix-ins you love.

4. Affordable and high-protein

Steel-cut oats are one of the most budget-friendly breakfasts.

5. Great for meal prep

Cook once, enjoy for days.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats

• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 3 cups water (or 2 cups water + 1 cup milk for creamier results)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, adds richness)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Fresh fruit, nuts, or toppings of choice

Instructions

1. Add ingredients to Instant Pot.
   Add steel-cut oats, water, milk (if using), salt, butter, and cinnamon.
2. Seal the lid.
   Set the Instant Pot valve to Sealing.
3. Pressure cook.
   Select Pressure Cook → High Pressure → 4 minutes.
4. Natural release.
   Let pressure release naturally for 10–15 minutes before opening.
5. Stir and taste.
   Oats will look separated at first—stir to create a creamy texture. Add sweetener if desired.
6. Serve.
   Add toppings like fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.

Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats

Creamy steel-cut oats made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. A healthy, filling breakfast perfect for meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 3 cups water or 2 cups water + 1 cup milk
• 1 tbsp butter optional
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp cinnamon optional
• honey or maple syrup optional
• fresh fruit & nuts optional toppings

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Method

 

1. Add oats, water, milk if using, butter, salt, and cinnamon to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and set to High Pressure for 4 minutes.
3. Allow a natural release for 10–15 minutes.
4. Open the lid, stir well, and sweeten if desired.
5. Serve with fruit, nuts, or toppings of choice.

Notes

For extra creaminess, replace 1 cup water with milk. Stir well before serving.

Topping Ideas

Sweet Options

• Bananas + cinnamon
• Berries + honey
• Apple chunks + brown sugar
• Almonds + maple syrup
• Peanut butter + sliced banana
• Chocolate chips + strawberries

Savory Options

• Fried egg + avocado
• Almond butter + flaky salt
• Cheese + black pepper

How to Store and Reheat

Fridge: 5–6 days

Store in airtight containers.

Freezer: 2–3 months

Freeze in portions.

Reheat:

Add a splash of milk or water and microwave 1–2 minutes.

FAQ

Do I need to rinse steel-cut oats?

No, not required.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Keep the same cook time.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use water or almond milk.

Why You’ll Make This Again & Again

• Creamy breakfast in minutes
• Incredibly cheap
• Full of fiber and protein
• Perfect for kids or adults
• Endless flavor variations

Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats are the foundation of a delicious, nourishing morning routine.