If you’ve never woken up legitimately craving a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, then I’m convinced you haven’t tried steel cut oats yet. The easiest way to cook them? Today’s method for Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats!
Arguably one of the most healthy, budget-friendly, and versatile breakfasts in existence, oatmeal is a nutritional super star that, for reasons both just and unjust, doesn’t receive the kind of universal enthusiasm it deserves.
Reasons you might *think* you don’t like oatmeal: It’s bland. It’s mushy. It tastes like something you’d be better off scraping into your dog’s bowl.
I hear you. Many bowls of oatmeal I have had in the past qualify this statement. My hunch is that if you still feel this way, you likely are microwaving quick oats or even worse, instant oatmeal packets. Guess what? Oatmeal does not (and should not!) taste like mush (especially not my classic Oatmeal!).
ENTER STEEL CUT OATS.
Steel cut oats are chewy, nutty, great for you, and a pleasure to eat. Making them in the Instant Pot (this is the Instant Pot model I have owned for years and love) makes the entire process hands free.
Steel cut oatmeal also reheats beautifully, meaning you can make a big batch, then enjoy healthy leftovers all week long.
Read on below for more about steel cut oats, as well as the best way to cook oatmeal in your Instant Pot. I’ve eaten steel cut oats for years, and the Instant Pot is my favorite way to prepare them, because it’s easy, fool proof, and results in perfectly cooked steel cut oats every time.
What Are Steel Cut Oats (and Why They Taste Better Than Other Oats)
Steel cut oats are a less processed version of rolled, quick, or instant oats. To make them cook more quickly, rolled, quick, and instant oats are steamed, flattened, and pulverized to varying degrees, with rolled oats being the least processed and instant oatmeal being very processed and pulverized.
Steel cut oats are cut with steel blades (hence the name “steel-cut”) and more closely resemble a whole oat in its original state.
Because they are more intact and less processed, steel cut oats take longer to cook than rolled, quick, and instant oats. The benefit of the wait: their texture is a delight! The trade off between time and texture is well worth it, especially since the Instant Pot makes cooking steel cut oats so easy.
Steel Cut Oats vs. Rolled Oats – Which is Better?
Both rolled oats and steel cut oats are high in protein, fiber, and nutrients and are a healthy choice. Because they are less processed, however, steel cut oats are better than rolled oats in several ways.
- While both types of oats contain fiber with cholesterol-lowering properties (beta glucan), steel cut oats have a higher level of fiber than rolled oats. Each serving of steel cut oats has about 5 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein.
- Steel cut oats rank lower on the glycemic index than rolled oats, meaning the body will digest and turn them into sugar more slowly.
- Steel cut oats are minimally processed and naturally gluten free, making them ideal for people with gluten sensitivities.
I’m super hurried and need a fast bowl of oatmeal, I’ll make rolled oats, which are the second best option behind steel cut oats. For a meal, I avoid quick oats, which are more processed and have an inferior texture to rolled oats or steel cut oats. Always avoid instant oats which have a gummy, unpleasant texture once cooked and offer fewer health benefits.
The only downside of steel cut oats compared to rolled oats is that they take longer to cook. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in!
Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats – A Handsfree Way to Cook Oatmeal
Steel cut oats can be cooked on the stove top, in the slow cooker, and in the Instant Pot.
- Stovetop. See my original Steel Cut Oats. It includes everything you need to cook the perfect bowl. This method requires nothing but a pot and a spoon, but you do have to keep an eye on it, so it’s not a “set it and forget it” situation, the way the Instant Pot is.
- Slow Cooker. These Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats cook in the crock pot while you sleep. They’re hands free but take hours, compared to the 25 minutes you’ll need for the Instant Pot.
- Instant Pot. The best of all words! They taste like stovetop steel cut oats, but the cooking method is completely hands free.
You also can prepare steel cut oats by making these Overnight Steel Cut Oats, which soak in the refrigerator to soften up. These are served cold, and while I adore them, today I’m focusing on hot steel cut oatmeal, which is a cozier option in cooler months, or for those who haven’t quite hopped aboard the overnight oats train yet.
Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats Cooking Time – How Long It Really Takes
- The cooking time to which you set your Instant Pot for steel cut oats is 4 minutes on high pressure.
- The actual total cooking time for Instant Pot steel cut oatmeal from start to finish is 25 minutes. This breaks out to 10 minutes for the pressure to build, 4 minutes cooking, and 10 minutes of natural release.
Stovetop steel cut oatmeal and Instant Pot steel cut oatmeal cook in about the same amount of total time. The benefit of the Instant Pot is that it is COMPLETELY hands-free.
You can start your oats when you wake up, walk away to get ready for work, then return to a hot, healthy breakfast that’s waiting for you.
How to Make Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats
Preparing these steel cut oats is so simple, and you’ll love how they taste!
The Ingredients
- Milk + Water. I like to make my steel cut oats with a mix of milk and water, though feel free to use just one or the other. As long as you keep the liquid ratios the same, you are set. NOTE: Some readers have reported burn warnings with dairy milk. To be 100% safe, I suggest using almond milk.
- Steel Cut Oats. As I discussed, steel cut oats are my favorite type of oats to cook and eat for breakfast. They have numerous health benefits, delicious texture, and the best flavor.
- Salt. Critical when cooking oatmeal to make its flavor pop. The oatmeal doesn’t taste salty, but without the salt, it will taste flat.
- Cinnamon. My favorite in oatmeal! Feel free to personalize your oats with your favorite spices.
- Maple Syrup or Honey. I love my oats with a touch of sweetness. Both maple syrup and honey add a rich, sweet flavor to my oats without using any refined sugar. These oats are very, very lightly sweet. Feel free to add more to taste, or omit it if you prefer to top individual bowls instead.
- Toppings. The possibilities are endless here! I suggest trying a few variations to see what you like best. I’ve listed some ideas below.
The Directions
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Add all the ingredients to your Instant Pot and stir. Cover and seal the pot. Cook on HIGH pressure for 4 minutes. The pressure will build for about 10 minutes, then the timer will begin. Once the timer elapses, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Vent, then carefully open the lid. They oats will look a bit liquidy at first, but will thicken as they cool.
-
Give the steel cut oatmeal a big stir. Scoop into your bowl, add desired toppings, and ENJOY!
A note on the Instant Pot porridge setting: The porridge button on your Instant Pot is designed to be a quick method for cooking your oatmeal, rice pudding, or similar grains. In order to keep the cooking consistent across all models and guarantee best results, I recommend keeping it simple by cooking with high pressure as directed in this recipe. It’s fun to use the bells and whistles of your appliances, but it’s not necessary for this recipe. The 4 minutes of cook time for the steel cut oats I’ve listed works every single time.
Adapting this Recipe for a 3-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot
This recipe is written for a standard 6-quart Instant Pot like this one. That said, you can easily adapt it to different sizes.
- To make steel cut oats in an 8-quart Instant Pot: Reduce the pressuring cooking time to 3 minutes on high. Keep the natural release at 10 minutes. You can double the ingredients if you like, though you do not need to.
- To make steel cut oats in a 3-quart Instant Pot: Cut the recipe ingredients in half (no other changes are necessary).
- To make steel cut oats in a 6-quart Instant Pot: Follow the recipe as directed below.
Steel Cut Oatmeal Toppings Ideas and Recipe Variations
Once your oats are cooked, you can customize your bowl with a rainbow of mix-ins and toppings to create the oatmeal of your dreams!
- Fresh Fruit. Top your oats with your favorite fresh fruit. Blueberry and banana are two of our favorites. Drizzle honey on top for added sweetness.
- Frozen Fruit. You can also cook Instant Pot steel cut oats with frozen fruit! Frozen strawberries or raspberries would be delicious. Add a drizzle of honey for more sweetness.
- Dried Fruit. Stir ¾ cup dried fruit, such as dried cherries or golden raisins, into the Instant Pot before cooking. Top with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
- Pumpkin. Stir in 1 cup pumpkin puree into the Instant Pot before cooking. This version would be delicious with 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and nutmeg. For a slow cooker pumpkin version, check out my Pumpkin Overnight Oats.
- Apple. Chop 1 or 2 apples into small pieces, and stir them into the Instant Pot before cooking. If you love apples in your oatmeal, you’ll love my Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats.
- Banana Bread. Slice a ripe banana, and stir it into the Instant Pot before cooking. The end result will taste just like banana bread. YUM!
- Super Food. Stir chia seeds or flaxseed meal into your cooked steel cut oatmeal. You can add these to individual bowls, or to the entire Instant Pot, either before or after cooking.
- Nut Butter. Stir a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter into your bowl of cooked oats. Peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter would all be delicious.
To Make Ahead
Steel cut oatmeal reheats well so it’s great for meal prep. You can even freeze portions if you like.
- Refrigerator Method. Prepare the oats as directed, and let cool. Place equal portions of your oats in separate airtight storage containers and refrigerate. You can also add fruit into each container. Reheat one portion at a time throughout the week. If your oats become too thick, add a little milk or water when reheating. The oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer Method. If you prefer to freeze your portions, cook the oatmeal as directed and pour it into the cups of a muffin pan. Set the muffin pan in the freezer until oatmeal is frozen solid. Once frozen, place oatmeal cups in an airtight freezer-safe storage container or ziptop bag. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of milk or water. The oatmeal can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Recommended Tools for Making Oatmeal
- Instant Pot. For making delicious oatmeal in no time!
- Measuring Spoons. These are ideal for measuring your oatmeal ingredients.
- Ladle. Easily transport your oatmeal to bowls and storage containers.
A warm bowl of filling, cozy steel cut oatmeal has been just the morning fix I’ve needed to get (and keep!) me going lately. I hope it hits the spot for you too. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment. I love hearing from you!
Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats
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Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or water*
- 2 cups steel cut oats do not use any other kind of oats
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey optional; add more to taste
- Toppings of choice fresh fruit, chopped toasted nuts, chia seeds or flaxseeds, additional maple syrup or honey, splash of milk
Instructions
- In a 6-quart Instant Pot, stir together the water, almond milk, oats, salt, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Cover and seal.
- Cook on HIGH pressure (manual) for 4 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Carefully remove lid.
- Give the oats a big stir. Carefully taste (they will be hot!) and add additional cinnamon and/or maple syrup to taste. The oats will continue to thicken as they cool.
- Ladle into serving bowls and serve hot with any desired toppings.
Video
Notes
- *UPDATE on 3/10/21: Some readers have reported seeing "burn" warnings when using dairy milk. I have not had this issue personally, but to be safe, I recommend using almond milk or water.
- If using an 8-quart Instant Pot, reduce the pressure cook time to 3 minutes. If using a 3-quart Instant Pot, cut the recipe in half.
- TO STORE: Place oatmeal in an airtight storage container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
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We have found cooking, Pot in Pot, a great advantage both in results and cleanup. Our personal tastes require 10 minutes cooking and NR. Love the cinnamon and maple syrup. Our additional favorite is Craisons. Love steel cut oats.
(I use both 3qt and 5qt instant pots.)
Thanks for sharing these tips, Winnie! Your additions sound delicious!
My husband loves steel cut oats, and I used to make them more frequently, using a slow cooker or on top of the stove. He happened to request them the day after I saw your recipe, so I made it that evening and then stored in the refrigerator for him to enjoy the next morning. Before he left for work, he walked into the bedroom and without prompting, said “those were darn good oats, best I’ve ever had.” I said “I’m glad you enjoyed them. I’ll let Erin know.” “Who’s Erin?” “Erin of Well-Plated food blog.” “Oh.” Then after he came home that afternoon, again unprompted, he says, “Those oats were like bliss as soon as I put them in my mouth.” Obviously, they made quite the impression on him. So thanks again, on behalf of my husband and myself, for an easy recipe that is also healthy AND delish! It was everything you said it to be.
Beverly, this MADE my day! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this kind review! I’m so happy these were a hit!
I saw this comment and had to chuckle, for I’m also on a first name basis with you in our house! Lol. I talked to my husband about “Erin’s recipes” often!
This makes my day, Jenn! I’m so honored!
Hey so idk if anyone knows how to do this but I made these this morning and I have aN almost-burnt crust on the bottom… what did I do wrong?
Hi Janessa! I’m so sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe. I haven’t heard of this happening before, so I’m not sure what might’ve gone wrong. Did you stir the ingredients before sealing the Instant Pot? I hope this recipe goes better for you next time!
These are so good! I’m an Instant Pot newbie and had no trouble making these. I used coconut milk instead of almond milk, and I added a whole banana and some vanilla extract (about a tsp) before cooking to add some flavor. I can see this becoming one of my breakfast staples and would 100% recommend this recipe!
Rachel, I’m so glad to hear it, thank you!
Same thing happened to me. And it made a god awful mess from the steam spout.
Hi Mindy! I’m so sorry to hear that this happened. I’m not sure what might’ve gone wrong, as I have not had this issue before. I hope you were still able to enjoy the oatmeal!
I’m not sure that this will help, but making sure that the pot doesn’t have an residual built up might help? For some reason, as clean as I try to be, sometimes there is built up in my pot. I occasionally use Bar Keeper’s Friend, and it brings back that natural beautiful and smooth surface on the stainless steel.
Thank you for chiming in and sharing this tip, Sheila!
Hi Janessa,
I made
these last night and I used pot in pot method. Take a glass bowl and use 1/2 cups steel cut oats (or more), 1 1/2 cups water and a splash or 2 of milk. I like mine creamy so I add more water. Ratio about 1:3 or 4. I sprinkled with a little bit of brown sugar, a small pinch of salt and cinnamon and stir all together. I then add 1 cup of water to the main pot and put in the trivet that came with the instant pot and put the bowl of oats on top. Close lid and use High pressure for 5 mins and Natural Release for 20 mins. I forgot to check the timer and when I went to check the pot the timer was at 40 minutes, but the oats were creamy and delicious. Once the oats are cooled in the glass bowl I put a lid on it and take it to work and have that for breakfast for 2 or 3 days. No burnt crust on the bottom and no pot to wash.
Erin- thank you so very much for this recipe. It was delicious, filling , nutritious and so simple to make. My family love it ! Again, thanks. – Sandra
Sandra, I am so happy to hear it! Thank you for taking time to leave this lovely review. It means a lot!
I have a 6qt instant pot. It made more than I was able to eat, so could I simply halve the recipe or will that not work?
Hi Erin! Yes, you can halve this recipe. I hope you enjoyed it!
Yes, I loved it! I have never had steel cut oats before. The texture is great. I also love your other blog recipes that I’ve tried and pre-ordered your cookbook! Excited to get that. :)
I’m SO happy to hear that, Erin! THANK YOU for your kind words and support! :)
If I need to use frozen blueberries can I stir them into the oats before cooking?
Hi Tai! You can stir them into the oats before cooking. I hope you enjoy the recipe!
Hi Erin!
I’m looking to make this for a large group of people. If I double or triple the recipe, should I add more cooking time? Btw, I love your recipe. I’ve been making your Peanut butter oatmeal breakfast bars for a few years now.
Thanks!
Hi Jenn! If you’re doubling this recipe for an 8-quart Instant Pot, then you should reduce the pressure cooking time to 3 minutes on high, and keep the natural release at 10 minutes. I hope it’s a hit!
Thank you for the recipe. However I think your yield is way off. 4 servings? More like 8 I would say with two cups of steel cut oats
Hi Brian! You can certainly adjust the serving size to your preferences. I hope you enjoy the recipe!
Hi Erin,
I’ve always loved the taste of oatmeal but hated the slimy texture so I wouldn’t eat it.
I remember, when I was a child, a neighbor making oatmeal that wasn’t slimy. I’ve tried to make it that way but it never worked.
A couple of years ago my cousin, Elsa, told me about steal cut oats and I’ve been enjoying them ever since. Now, with your instant pot recipe, I can make them without having to watch them so closely and enjoy even more of them. Thank you.
Hi Wendla, thank you for sharing this kind comment! I hope you love the recipe!
This is soooo good! Made it with instant steel cut oats(that’s all I had) and a few chopped dates and it was amazing!
I’m so happy to hear that this recipe was a hit, Aimee! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Can I double the recipe in a 6 quart Instant Pot?
Hi Alice! I haven’t tried doubling this recipe before, but I’m afraid it might not fit in a 6-quart Instant Pot. However, as long as the contents don’t go over the max fill line, it should work fine. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
I’m excited about this recipe. Came out perfect the first time (and I even let it sit for too long!) How many cups would you say is one serving (for the 359 calories you have listed)? It makes a big batch so I’m trying to figure out how much I can eat for that much (or less). Thanks!
Hi Jen, I’m so happy to hear that this recipe was a hit! Unfortunately, I didn’t measure cup for cup the yield of this recipe, but you can give it an eyeball to portion it out into 4 once it is cooked. I hope this helps!
8 qt – at 3 minute as suggested in notes still came out gritty :( what should I do
Hi Tyler, I’m sorry to hear that the oats didn’t turn out as you’d hoped. This timing has worked well for other readers, and it’s so hard to say what might’ve happened without being in the kitchen with you. I hope you were still able to enjoy them!
I make this all the time! Perfectly cooked and great flavor. I love oatmeal.
I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed the recipe, Austin! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Just made this recipe. First time making steel cut oats and they came out perfectly! Followed the recipe exactly. I did lose track of time so they sat in the Instant Pot for over 20 min. No biggie. To my bowl of chewy goodness, I added a spoonful of mixed nut butter and a tiny drizzle of maple syrup. Yummy!
YAY, so happy to hear it Michelle, thanks!
This was fantastic! A FIRST time ever successfully making steel cut oats without my IP yelling at me that it’s burning! Thanks so much?
I’m SO happy to hear that, Sharon! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Thank you so much for posting this recipe. I love steel cut oats, but hate how long it takes. While the instant pot does take SOME time, it’s certainly a lot less, and a lot more hands off!
I do have some tips after trying it in my Instant Pot Lux MIni (3qt). I tried just halving the recipe as recommended, but I found that the oats turned out too dry. I used 1 cup of water and 1 cup of low-fat milk, and 1 cup of oats. I added some cinnamon. I didn’t add any sweetener until after, since I’m not always sure how much sweetness I want, and I need to taste it as I add (hard to do with uncooked oats!). Perhaps because I didn’t add any liquid sweetener, that was part of the reason it turned out crumbly and dry. I tried adding milk after the fact, but it just made it more gummy, and less of a porridge. :(
However, I made a few modifications this morning, and it turned out great! I did two cups water and 1 cup milk, 1 cup of oats, and some cinnamon and sugar. At first, I thought it was a little too liquidy, but after letting it rest for a moment (aka: cool off so I could eat it), it was the perfect consistency. There was slightly more of a chew than when I make it on the stove. I did add more sugar after for sweetness, but it didn’t change the consistency.
So, my recommendation is to increase the amount of liquid to 3:1. You might also have success with 2.5:1 for steel cut oats, depending on how much like porridge you like your oats!
Hi Raven, I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed the oatmeal! Thank you for taking the time to share your tips for halving the recipe!
Great recipe. Leftovers are easily heated by adding a little milk. I used 2% milk with the water.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Debby! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
This looks delicious and I will be making it tomorrow. In the video, there is steam and it looks like the liquid is starting to boil. Do you use the sauté function while preparing it?
Hi Jamie! No, you do not need to use the saute function while adding the ingredients. I’m sorry that the video is confusing for this part. I hope you enjoy the recipe!
This recipe completely burnt my instant pot!
Hi Eugenia, I’m so sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe. Did you stir the ingredients before sealing the Instant Pot? I hope you were still able to enjoy it!
You said to cut the recipe in half for the 3 quart IP
How many minutes (4 minutes for a 6 qt. 3 minutes for an 8 qt) for cooking?♀️?
I made this recipe in my 8 qt. as instructed. It turned out Fabulously!!
I want to try this in my little 3 qt.
Thx!!??
Hi Bonnie, I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed this recipe! You only need to cut the recipe in half, then cook as directed. I hope you enjoy!
Hi,
I have a 6qt instapot, I recently started ti use it. I added ecerything, gave a stir and set high presure for 4min, but before the 4 min started it gave a burn alert! The bottom was a bit burnt. Do you have any idea why? Should I try low heat pressure? Or any suggestions to prevent the burn?
PS: the smell was still amazing ?
Thanks,
Hande
Hi Hande, I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with the burn warning for this recipe. My biggest tip is to make sure no pieces of food are stuck to the bottom before you seal it. I hope you were still able to enjoy it!
This turned out great! I cut the recipe in half, doing 1 cup water + 1 cup almond milk for 1 cup oats and it came out perfect! I like mine a bit chewy, so if you want it creamier I’d recommend a splash more liquid
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Vivian! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Excellent! I needed to add about 1 cup of milk because the oatmeal was very dry. I added some flax seeds, dotted with butter. Excellent chewiness and flavor. I live at high altitude, may account for needing extra liquid. Will make it again!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Jane! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Tried 1 cup steel cut oats in my instant pot. Added 2 cups water. And 2 cups fresh blueberries. Set for 5 minutes. Came out perfect. Added honey before eating. Yummy ?
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Elisa! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Hi. thank you for this I haven’t made it yet but Its exactly what I was looking for. Question; soaking for 10 hours previous to cooking, Is not necessary? In the video they looked dry when you poured them in the pot.
Hi Caroline! This recipe does not require any soaking prior to cooking, so you can add the oats dry. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
For those that are having trouble with burning and foaming, I’m wondering if they used dairy milk. Any time I make oats with regular milk, they foam, scorch, and make a horrible mess!
I love that your recipe uses almond milk. I was tempted to use 2 cups of almond milk but I stuck to the recipe with 1 cup almond milk and 3 cups cups of water. I’m so glad I did! Thicker liquids can be a problem too. And I used the 6 qt Instant Pot with no problems.
Just made it. It’s perfect! I added oat milk, cinnamon, dried cranberries and dried cherries and then sprinkled pecans and maple syrup and flax seed before serving. Just delicious!
Matt, I am so pleased to hear it! Thanks for sharing this lovely review! Your toppings sound DELISH!
This sounded so easy. I forgot that both oats and milk have a tendency to foam up. Together they foam up a LOT as soon as the pressure built! Not good in my 6-qt. InstantPot. I had to unplug and wait for the pressure to drop and finish cooking on the stove. So disappointed.
Larriann, do you mean foam was coming out of the Instant Pot? It sounds like you might have an issue with your sealing ring. That happened to me once, and it turned out that the ring needed to be swapped out. Once I did that, the oats cooked perfectly. Here’s an example. I’m sorry this didn’t turn out but I hope the ring might help.
I can’t even get my instant pot up to pressure before I get the “burn” warning. Opened it up, added more water and scraped the bottom. Tried again. Same thing. I stirred all of the ingredients prior to cooking it too. So disappointing. ??♀️
I’m so sorry that you had trouble with the burn warning, Erin. I (and many other readers) have really enjoyed this recipe, so I wish it would’ve been a hit for you too!
I too got the burn warning and the oatmeal stuck.
Hi Diana, I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe. Did you stir the ingredients before sealing the Instant Pot? I hope you were still able to enjoy it!
Hello and thanks for the recipe! I usually make your regular recipe and have also tried the banana version and they’ve been great. I am trying your pumpkin recipe now and my pot simply will not come to pressure. I have only had it and used it about 10 times all perfectly, so I know the seal is fine. I’m wondering if the liquid proportion makes it much harder to come to pressure? It’s been about 30 minutes….I hope there’s still a chance for it to turn out okay!
Hi Jessica, I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with this latest version. It’s so hard for me to say what might be happening without being in the kitchen with you. I hope you were still able to enjoy them!
Turned out perfect! Loved it. I have never tried steel cut oats before. Made exactly as recipe in 6qt instant pot. Thank you!
I’m so happy that it was a hit, Julia! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Quick question. Is this supposed to be 2 cups oats to 4 parts liquid? My oats box states 1:4 ratio.
Hi Julia! This is how I tested the recipe, and it worked great for me. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
I’ve never cooked steel cut oats until this recipe. and now I’m hooked! I made a few minor changes. I toasted the oats in the IP in a couple of tablespoons of butter till it started smelling a bit nutty. I used 2 cups water and 2 cups plus a big splash more, of Fairlife milk.
Came out creamy and delicious! Thanks for the recipe
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Dinah! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
This worked beautifully for me! Thanks for making it available.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Deana! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
This is the best instant pot recipe for steel cut oats. I followed the recipe exactly and my oats came out perfect; soft with texture and chewiness. The total time was spot on. I set my timer for 25 min and when I came back it was exactly 10 minutes after. Thank you!!!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Sue! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I questioned if milk was ok even with equal part water and stirred 1 cup pumpkin but it burned so I shut off pressure cook!
Hi Joni, I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe. I (and many other readers) have had success with it as written, so I wish it would’ve been a hit for you too!
Delicious. Followed exactly except used 1 cup of coconut milk (left over from last nights dinner recipe). Added blueberries, 1 chopped apple and honey. So nice to have some left for another breakfast. Hubby LOVES it. ❤️
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Mary! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
This recipe is amazing! I make it each week and leave the extra in the fridge for subsequent breakfasts. I have a 3qt insta so I just half the recipe. I use soy milk. One of my favs – thanks!!
I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed it, Tammy! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I was beginning to give up on steel cut oats with my 2 year old, but this recipe helped us a lot! I finished with hemp, chia, blueberries, and my homemade dairy kefir which was delicious!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Alex! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I followed the recipe to the letter using 1 cup of whole milk. The oatmeal was perfect. Added more milk, a teaspoon of sugar and blueberries to my serving.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Anita! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Just got my IP today…have already used it twice in less than 3 hours!
Question…can I cut this recipe in half for a 6 qt OP and still have it come out okay? Would I need to reduce the cook time if I did? Thanks!
You can definitely halve this recipe, Dave! I hope you enjoy it!
Best oatmeal ever!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Bobbie! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Easy peasy and delicious
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Jamie! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
My 8 quart Instant Pot has no timer setting but lists porridge, Rice, Poultry, etc. Which setting should I use for your recipe?
Hi Max! Do you have a manual pressure button? I haven’t experimented with using any of the preset buttons for this recipe, so it would be a complete experiment. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
Hi Erin! Would you adjust the measurements and/or cook time if using quick cook steel cut oats? It’s what I have an enormous amount of on hand. Lol
Hi Julz! I’ve only tested the recipe with regular steel cut oats, so it would be an experiment. I’m afraid the quick-cooking kind could get mushy, so you may want to try shortening the cooking time. If you decide to try it, I’d love to hear how it goes!
Second recipe I tried in our brand new Instant Pot. Wow — nailed it on the first go! Wonderful flavor and texture, and (speaking as someone who’s made steel-cut oats for years, variously in double boilers and — overnight — in crock pots) cooking it in the Instant Pot was a breeze! Thank you!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Jim! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Not enough water or cooking time for Mccann’s Irish steel cut when tried with 1/3 cup oats and 1 cup of water + butter in both a Duo Plus and an Evo Plus. It was edible, sort of but lacked the creaminess when properly prepared.
I’m sorry to hear that this recipe didn’t turn out for you, Harlitta. I (and many other readers) really enjoyed the recipe, so I truly wish it would’ve been a hit for you too!
To set the record straight, steel cut oats have the SAME nutritional and gluten free properties as rolled oats. The information about glycemic index is acurate.
I had the sane experience as the other reviewers with food burn warning. I have instant pot duo nova. Followed exactly and within couple minutes got warning and my pot bottom is covered in caked on burned oats.
I’m so sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe, Sarah. Did you make sure no bits of food were stuck to the bottom before sealing it? I know it can be frustrating to try a new recipe and not have it turn out, so I really wish you would’ve enjoyed it!
Followed the recipe to a T and it burnt horribly to the bottom of the pan.
I’m so sorry that you had trouble with this recipe sticking, Erin. Did you give it a good stir before sealing the pot? I hope you were still able to enjoy some of it!
Got the burn warning on my Instapot. I did give it a good stir before starting. I just emptied the pot out, scraped the food off, added water and put it back in for about 1 min. Also, decreased to low pressure. Then they turned out wonderful!
I’m sorry that you had trouble with the burn warning, Alissa. I’m so happy that you enjoyed them though!
I got a burn warning on mine as well, but that may have been my fault.
I added part of a clove, the cinnamon, shaved some fresh nutmeg (not much–a pinch) and brown sugar. Then I put all that in to the pot, put it on sauté and added butter. I really dislike it when cinnamon refuses to disperse in a liquid and that is why I did this. Adding the butter turned out to be a great idea and I added a touch more when eating.
However, I think having the pot already warm when I put the lid on, added the oats and swapped to pressure cook may have contributed to my burning.
It wasn’t terrible burnt, but I will have to put some elbow grease in to cleaning the pot now.
I’m sorry you had trouble with the burn warning, Adam. I’m happy to hear that you enjoyed the recipe otherwise though!
This is the first recipe I tried in an Instant Pot. It was a fail. The “food burn” warning came on before it finished preheating. Indeed, the oatmeal was burned on the bottom and the remainder of it was still crunchy. :-(
I’m so sorry that you had trouble with this recipe, Rose. Did you give it a good stir before sealing the pot? I hope you were still able to enjoy some of it!
Hey!
Try spraying the instant pot with a non-stick cooking spray before you cook it. It keeps things from sticking so well.
These turned out super. I made a large batch and froze as you directed.
The portion my husband and I ate was delicious. Thanks for your hard work putting all this information together.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Margie! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I made the Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats for the first time today in my 6 qt. Instant Pot. They turned out perfectly! I will refrigerate some and freeze some and see how the frozen ones work out. If they thaw well and taste good, I will try the 12 serving recipe. Thanks for this recipe! It will be saving me a lot of time and a lot less “pot watching”.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Joyce! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I mix dry first, water, milk, honey, stir, insta pot 3 minutes (8 qt), fantastic!!! microwave am, tablespoon heavy cream, pomegranate seeds, great way to start the day!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, John! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
These oats turned out perfect! This was my first recipe from your site and now I’m excited to try more! The oats are definitely going to become a weekly meal prep for me to have delicious breakfast each morning.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Jennifer! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Absolutely perfect. Changed the liquid to two cups of whole milk and two cups water and added 1/2 tsp of cardamom, other than that followed this to the letter. Best oatmeal ever!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, KP! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
These are delicious and the recipe worked perfectly for me. I’ve made them twice in the past 2 weeks!
I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed them, Beth! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Can this recipe be doubled in the 6 qt Instant Pot? Would cooking time change?
Thank you!
Hi Jade! I haven’t tried doubling this recipe before, but I’m afraid it might not fit in a 6-quart Instant Pot. However, as long as the contents don’t go over the max fill line, it should work fine. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
Hi Erin,
I love this recipe and make a big batch every couple of weeks. One thing i do first is saute the oats first (using the saute function) in a couple of tablespoons of butter, before adding the liquid and cooking. Gives them a nice toasty flavour.
I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed the recipe, Tana! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
This is my “Go To” recipe. I actually 1/2 this recipe 1 cup of oats to 2 cups of liquid (usually 1c of water & 1c of almond milk) because the recipe amount was to much. Now I just read about freezing it.. game changer.. I will have to do that next time.
I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed the recipe, Tammy! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I have an 8 quart IP and so I doubled the recipe and lowered the cooking time to 3 minutes. I had heard in the comments someone said they had a food burn message when using this recipe and you suggested they may not have given a good stir. I made sure I did that but I too got a food burn message before the cook time even appeared (the steam vent did close before the message appeared). In hindsight I can speculate why my food burned. I took filtered water and milk out of the fridge. Since the liquid was so cold it took a long time for the liquid to heat up to produce steam meanwhile the food lying at the bottom of the pot got the brunt of the extended heat time, hence burnt food. Perhaps the temperature of the liquid is a crucial factor. I should attempt this recipe again at a later date with warmer water to see if that fix’s the problem.
Thanks for trying the recipe and sharing your results/tips, Bryan! I hope it goes better next time!
Great recipe, but there seems to be an error in the amount of steel cut oats. If made as stated the instant pot gives a burn error. I think it call for 1 cup instead of 2. Did anyone else have this problem?
Thanks for trying the recipe, Leeann! I (and other readers) have had success with the recipe as written, but you can certainly adjust the amount of oatmeal as needed. I hope you enjoyed the recipe!
I have a 3 qt. Used organic steel cut oats, cold filtered water from the fridge/2% milk, honey, along with the other ingredients as described. Came out perfectly both times. I’m so glad to have found this recipe. ?
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Felicia! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
So easy to make, and absolutely delicious.
I am so so happy to hear that Patty! Thanks for taking time to leave this review.
Hello – you mention that 1/4 cup of steel cut oats is a portion – yet in the recipe it calls for 2 cups of oats and you state it serves 4 – which is 1/2 cup. Please advise – is it 1/4 or 1/2 cup of oats for each serving?
Thx
Hi Ann! I’m sorry for any confusion. There are 4 servings in this recipe as written. I hope you enjoy it!
It really makes a big difference if you are Irish! I made it as directed. Barely enough for four! I made with real milk. No burn. I did mix very well. I also used the alternative liner, the ceramic liner. Something like that. Easy clean up.
I hope you enjoyed the oats, Sandra! Thanks for sharing your results!
I’ve been making steel cut oats for years and half the time I would get distracted and the water boiled over, making a mess.
This is the only way I’ll make them from now on! Super easy to make a big batch (eating a ton of oats while breastfeeding) and no mess. The texture is perfect with these the oat/liquid ratio and cook time. Thanks!!
I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed them, Teri! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I just found the recipe and cut it in half as I am single and that is a lot of oatmeal (2 cups) but I love to steal cut oats and don’t cook them because of the time so this is a great recipe, thank you!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, George! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I think your recipe needs more water. I got a burn notice using the recommended 4c liquid and 2 c steel cut oats.
I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe, BC. Did you make sure no bits of food were stuck to the bottom before sealing it? I hope you still enjoyed the recipe!
Use these ratios but I’m a fan of savory oats. This week I made them a veggie broth and I will mix them with roasted veg. Try it sometime
That sounds delicious, Brenda! Thank you for sharing your tips!
Burned. I followed the instructions. ? divided the recipe in half and used unsweetened almond milk as directed.
I’m so sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe, Barbara. Did you make sure no bits of food were stuck to the bottom of the pot before sealing it? I hope you were still able to enjoy some of it!
This is the best instant pot steel cut oats recipe I’ve found yet. No burn notice with dairy milk, but there’s so much liquid that that doesn’t surprise me. I find 5 minutes pressure plus 10 minutes nr gives me exactly the texture I’m looking for. Thanks for the great recipe.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Andrew! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Very easy and delicious!!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Chris! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
For my first go at these, I made them exactly as I you specified. These are the best steel cut oats I’ve ever made! And, so easy. I use a silicon muffin tin to freeze portions- they pop out easily when frozen. I won’t make steel t oats any other way from now on. Thanks for a great recipe!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Diane! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Love love love this recipe! Perfect consistency and the flavor is amazing! Makes the prefect meal prep amount for the week too! I served with frozen wild blueberries, walnuts and a light drizzle of pure maple syrup when serving. Highly recommend!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Michaela! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
This will be my third time making this recipe, and every time I have been so pleased with the results! The oats come out perfectly cooked every time, and absolutely delicious. My one year old daughter and I eat eat these every morning with fresh berries and some extra milk. No burn notice over here, and I’ve been using whole grass fed dairy milk. Just make sure to stir all your ingredients once you’ve added them, before you start the instant pot. Highly recommend you try this easy and delicious recipe!
I’m SO happy that you’ve enjoyed it, Alysia! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Made this today using 2 cups water, 2 cups oatmilk. I like to first saute my oats in a bit of butter, then continued on as recipe is posted. Sooo good, perfect texture! Never cooking steel cut any other way from this day forward. Ty ty. Love the perfect sweetness the maple syrup added during the cooking process.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Sher! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
The oatmeal was wonderful for the part that didn’t burn. I used almond milk (1c plus 3 c water) but still got the FOOD BURN message and it did burn on the bottom. I stirred everything well before closing the lid. Any ideas?
I’m so sorry you had trouble with the burn warning, Mary. Unfortunately, it’s so hard to say what might’ve happened without being in the kitchen with you. I’m happy you were still able to enjoy part of the oats!
I used this exact recipie added some unsalted butter once it was finish. The maple was a GREAT idea because the oats absorb the sweetness so well all it needed was some fruit on top. I just had a 2nd bowl thank you 🙏🏾 ! I’m def ready to nap 😴
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Jasmine! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Tried to make this for lunch today and got the “burn” warning. Made with 3cur water 1 cup 1% dairy milk – may not have stirred it up enough before sealing. Will try again soon.
I’m sorry you had trouble with the burn warning, Angie. I definitely recommend stirring the pot well before sealing to make sure nothing is stuck to the bottom. I hope your next attempt goes well!
Tried it today and achieved perfect results using oat milk (funny, I know.. but I honestly thought I was reaching for the almond milk. Divided into 12 portions and froze in a muffin tin!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Portia! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Fast, easy, and delicious. Perfect consistency.
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Lucia! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
I’ve tried this with cracked oats as well and it worked! I do have a question — what is the difference between cracked and steel cut? 😊
Hi Lu, I’ve only used steel cut oats for this recipes. I am not sure what cracked oats are. Will definitely need to Google that! So glad it worked for you!
Great way to make steel cut oats.
The texture was perfect
Hi Lana! So glad you enjoyed the oats! Thank you for this kind review!
When to put the cinnamon in is missing. I’m assuming it gets added at the same time as everything else. Other than that, I loved it! Perfectly cooked and sweetened. I used unsweetened, plain soy milk and added fresh cherries and chopped peanuts. Yum! 😋
Hi Erin, thank you for letting me know. We will updated the recipe. You definitely add it in with the other ingredients in Step 1. Also you’ll find a video that shows when, for a visual reference. Hope this helps! Thank you for this kind review!
Can I make fewer than four servings? Does the time to cook change?
Hi Joyce, Yes you can make fewer than four servings. There is a slider button in the recipe card that allows you to change the serving size. No need to adjust the cook time. Hope you enjoy them!
I ADDED AN APPLE CUT UP, HEMP HEARTS, CHIA SEEDS, VANILLA, SHREDDED COCONUT, WHEN COOKED I PUT FRESH BLUEBERRIES, STRAWBERRIES.. WAS SOOO YUMMY
Hi Ingrid! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
What’s the recommended instant pot time for a doubled recipe
Hi Melissa! I haven’t tried doubling this recipe before, but I’m afraid it might not fit in a 6-quart Instant Pot. However, as long as the contents don’t go over the max fill line, it should work fine. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
I have doubled the recipe in an 8 qt pressure cooker with no change to the listed time with no issues.
As a precaution though, I stir the oatmeal after the rest time. (Making sure to scrape the bottom)
I’m just cautious about it settling and getting too dense as it cools.
Hi Bryan! Thank you for your feedback! So glad you enjoyed them! Thank yo for this kind review!
I am giving this a try for freezer. I did not add any toppings to instant pot thought I would when I warmed up. I used 3 cups water, one cup oatmilk. Hope it works out.
Hi Carmen! Let me know how it goes! Thanks!
I freeze prepared steel cut oatmeal often, using muffin tins. Once frozen, transfer to gallon freezer bag (dipping bottom of tin in hot water to loosen). Then I can easily reheat however many ‘pucks’ I need.
I don’t think the nutrition info is correct.
My steel cut oats list 1 serving , 1/4cup dry oats as 170 calories and 31 g carbohydrate. 1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk is 7.5 calories.
I did not use the syrup.
Thanks for the recipe.
Hi Michele! Nutritional values will always be different depending on which specific ingredient that was used. Mine include the syrup as well. Hope you enjoyed them!
Your videos go to an add part way through and then come back to a different video. Very maddening.
Hi Jane! Thanks for letting me know! I’ll have my team look into it!
I used only water and got a burn notice. First time ever. I’ve used other sites recipes and found they used too much liquid to oat, this one maybe too little. Next time I will add 1/4 cut water.
Hi Betty, I’m so sorry to hear that you got the burn notice. It seems some pressure cooker models tend to do this versus others. I’ve made it successfully (as have other readers) without any problem. Let me know how it goes with the additional 1/4 cup water, if you make it again!
I tried this recipe for Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats rolling exactly as written and before my Instant Pot reached pressure it was giving a burn alert. I canceled, stirred, and tried again with same results. I did note that the oats were already very thick but not yet done. I had to transfer to a pot and complete the stovetop method. I guess the next time I’ll try the slow cooker method. I do love the taste!
Hi Connie! I’m so sorry to hear that you got the burn notice. It seems some pressure cooker models tend to do this versus others. I’ve made it successfully (as have other readers) without any problem. I wished it would of been a success for you.
Can I use quick cook steel cut oats? Thanks!!
Hi Jenny! I’ve only tested the recipe with regular steel cut oats, so it would be an experiment. I’m afraid the quick-cooking kind could get mushy, so you may want to try shortening the cooking time. If you decide to try it, I’d love to hear how it goes!
Since we are few in our household, I followed a suggestion I found online to keep the oats fresh longer: oil a 12-cup muffin tin, then fill each to the top, leveled off, with the cooked oats. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze till solid (a couple of hours). Remove the “oat pucks”, place in ziploc bags, and freeze. To serve, place two “pucks” in a bowl, add a sprinkle of water, and heat on high for about 45 seconds. Stir and serve. Perfect.
Hi Linda! Thanks for your feedback!
Just wondering steel cut oats are hard to find here in France so I will use whole groats that I have soaked for 12hrs as recommended on packet; however do I double cooking time as the grain is whole and not cut?
I made a test batch but it seems very al denté to me is that right ?
Hi Elizabeth! I’m sorry to say but I have no idea on the cooking time. I’ve only tested this recipe with steel cut oats. If you figure out the correct cooking time with your whole groats, let me know!
I keep getting a burn notice with this recipe. I have been using 4 cups almond milk. A mix of steel cut oats and 7 grain oats. The first couple of times I did this recipe it worked now it’s not working.
Hi Ruthie! I’m sorry I don’t know why that is! This recipe is for only steel cut oats so not sure how the 7 grain oats works.
Burned in instapot :(
I’m so sorry you had trouble with this recipe, Amanda. It’s hard to say what went wrong without being in the kitchen with you.
I know it’s frustrating to try a new recipe and not have it turn out. I (and many other readers) have enjoyed them, so I really wish they would’ve been a hit for you too!
My instant pot never reached pressure after waiting 1.5 hours. It wasn’t sealed apparently. However, I guess it cooked on the “keep warm” setting as it was the best oatmeal I’ve ever had. Maybe I slow cooked it? lol
Hi KATM! So sorry to hear that! Hope it seals for you ned time!!
Couldn’t find the measurements. Have to keep reading to try to find a simple recipe. Just want to find the directions or recipe and I have to read how much fiber is in the food?!
Hi Stephanie! Did you see the “jump to recipe” button at the top right side of the page? This is located on every single recipe of mine to get you to the measurements and directions quickly if you are not in need of my suggestions, tips, etc. Hope this helps!
Made this for a party. Huge hit! Thank you for a wonderful recipe.
Hi Amy! So glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for this kind review!
Trying to make healthier choices for my family and I must say this was delicious! We are an instant oatmeal family with a very picky 2 year old and he cleaned his bowl! I tried to take his bowl to take a picture and he told me he wanted or back! Anyway personal I had to get a little used to the texture because I’ve eaten instant my whole life. It wasn’t terrible but wouldn’t have minded a bit less chew. Also topped with apples it was delicious! Oh and I used Ripple Pea milk with no burning or anything. Thank you for this easy quick healthy breakfast!
Hi Donasiah! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I followed the directions exactly but this didn’t turn out well for me. Four minutes didn’t seem enough. They were still gritty/chewy and I expected them to be soft. I would add a minute or two. I also thought that they tasted too salty. They were also too runny until they were practically cold.
Hi Michelle! I’m sorry this didn’t turn out as you hoped. Did you use kosher salt or table salt? That will make a difference, but I know we all have different taste so feel free to adjust it to your liking. Also steel cut oats have a different texture and they are supposed to be chewy and is very different than rolled or instant oats.
So good! Just the right amount of sweetness and the leftovers heated up nicely over the next few days.
Hi Angie! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
There is not enough liquid for this to cook properly, having (any) milk with low liquid leads excess burning. Having made steel cut oats in the instapot for a few years this is the first time it’s actually burned.
Erin, you have some good recipes but this was a flop for a lot of people, you should really modify it more than the disclaimer you put in about almond milk. That’s not the problem.
Very disappointing for a recipe that *should be* impossible to screw up.
I’m sorry to hear you had trouble with this recipe, Jeff. I test my recipes out multiple times before they ever hit the website and it works for myself (and others). There are lots of variables as to why it may not work for one person versus another. Unfortunately I can not be in the kitchen with everyone to understand why they are having issues with the recipe versus the ones who clearly do not have a problem with it.
No need to be so rude! Anyone that cooks and/or bakes (even a little), realizes that appliance heat can vary between them. I hope all of your future IP meals turn out swimmingly and…you gain some internet comment manners…bc what goes around, comes back around, friend – cheers! 😊
PS – Erin love your perfect recipe!! 💜💚💙
Thanks so much Tiff!
Thanks for the Recipe. It was right on spot. No hassles at all. Amazing chef quality like steel cut oats made in just 25 mins as you said. Thanks again.
Hi Andee! So glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for this kind review!
Got the burn notice 😞
I’m sorry to hear that Betsy!
Thank you for sharing this recipe! I used 4 cups of water, followed the recipe exactly, and it turned out perfectly. I can’t wait to see how the frozen portions turn out!
Thank you!
Hi Jessica! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review and feedback!
Hi Jessica,
Was that 4 cups of water in addition to a cup of almond milk, or just 4 cups of water in place of the three cups of water and one cup of almond milk in the original recipe? In other words, did you just add an extra cup of water to Erin’s recipe?
I have a 12 quart IP. What changes should I make to your recipe?
Diana
Hi Diana! I haven’t tested this out in a 12 qt before so you would be experimenting. My only thoughts are that because it is a bigger size instant pot it may take a little longer for it to come to pressure, so keep that in mind if you decide to try it out!
Hi Erin. I’m loving my new (3 day old) 8qrt IP, and have tried this simple recipe twice now and absolutely LOVE it! No burning, just perfect! Chucked a cut up apple in todays effort, with some extra cinnamon, then topped with blueberries and banana, and date syrup as opposed to the maple syrup. Delicious!
Hi David! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
This recipe is amazing and I’ve made it dozens of times with perfect results! Yum!
Hi Colleen! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I’ve made this twice and both times it turned out perfectly. Thanks for the easy, tasty recipe!
Hi Margaret! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
We made this over Christmas while staying in a Cabin with electricity, but no plumbing, in the UP. Great, served with extra maple syrup, vanilla Greek yogurt,and nuts. Filled us up for all the UP biking fun.
Hi Jessica! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I LOVE this recipe! Thank you Erin! I made it exactly how you instructed (which I think is the only way to fairly review a recipe) and they are the BEST steel cut oats ever! I make this several times a week now, as it’s so easy to do while getting ready for work. The only thing I do differently now is as per other readers comments, I add in about 2-3 cups of frozen fruit, depending on batch size, with the other ingredients. YUM! Thank you again. Am definitely going to make more of your recipes. So glad I found your page!
Hi Manisha! I’m so glad you found it too! Thank you for this kind review!
Once a week I make this for my boys before I leave for work. They wake up to the wonderful smell of cinnamon and love the oats! Thank you for sharing your recipe.
Hi Audrey! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
how do I prepare steel cut oats without an instant pot?
Hi Eleanor! I have multiple post on the site that prepare them differently. Here you go: https://www.wellplated.com/?s=steel+cut+oats
give savory oats a try. cook the same [only water, still creamy finish tho]. a teaspoon of knorrs, bit of grated cheese and butter. kinda like risotto breakfast.
Will definitely do that, thanks Tim.
Excellent!!!! I have really been struggling with getting steel cut oats creamy and soft and this is perfect! Love how easy it is and that it makes a big batch to last a few breakfasts.
Hi Amilee! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I’ve enjoyed this recipe in the past. One note for those who are getting a burn notice. Might want to coat your instant pot with a little olive oil first. Rainbow plant life has a similar steel cut oats recipe and she recommends that you use oil to coat it first.
Hi Kristina! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thanks for the suggestion!
Holy cow, so tasty! I only had 1 cup of oats left so I made 1/2 recipe with 50/50 almond milk and water. Added a sliced banana to the pot before cooking and some toasted walnuts to my bowl. Absolutely delicious, filling and healthy.
Hi Liz! So glad you enjoyed the oats! Thank you for this kind review!
This recipe is AMAZING! Five starts for the recipe itself! We have a huge family, so I did 3x the recipe. Thought it would be fine in my 8qt instant pot because it wasn’t even to the half-fill line, but it overflowed when we quick released it. Maybe I should’ve done the slow release method. I’m going to try it in the crock pot for breakfast tomorrow to see how that cooking method works.
Hi Steph! So glad you enjoyed the oats! Thank you for this kind review!
Oatmeal came out perfectly and was nice that I could go walk the dogs and come back to a hot meal. Only disadvantage here is you’re using twice the oats compared to the stovetop directions, so twice the calories and, ahem, fiber. Time-wise it’s only a little faster than stovetop.
Hi Dough! So glad you enjoyed the oats! Thank you for this kind review!
Didn’t work for me. Seems like there wasn’t enough liquid to fully soften the oats or they weren’t under pressure long enough. I’m trying to salvage it by letting is slow cook for a while. I chose this recipe to follow due to all the great reviews so I’m a lil bummed. Don’t know why my end result was different as I followed the instructions.
I’m so sorry you had trouble with this recipe, Dee. It’s hard to say what went wrong without being in the kitchen with you.
I know it’s frustrating to try a new recipe and not have it turn out. I (and many other readers) have enjoyed them, so I really wish they would’ve been a hit for you too!
Just wondering if you made this overnight. Heard people do it with oats and water. Keep it in IP overnight with a delay timer and you wake up to ready breakfast in the morning. I am not sure if that would cook as only half the amount of liquid is in it. Milk would go bad if added at night
Hi! No, I’m sorry I haven’t tried to do it this way before.
Hello, hope you are well. Did you try the delay timer method? If so, how many hours? Setting it up overnight seems a convenient method to have the porridge ready in the morning :) Thank you.
these instructions lead to a burn alert on instant pot 3 qt ultra.
Hi Mark, did you reduce the recipe in half?
my oats lead to a burn alert too. However, I was using the 3-minute quick steel cut oats. Not sure that makes a difference – but I had to add 2 1/2 cups more of water and stir a lot. I don’t really think the regular steel oats would turn out much bette. The ratio of oats to water seems off to me….. should be double the water in my humble opinion.
Hi! Using a different kind of oat would definitely change the results of the original recipe. The regular steel cut oats turn out perfectly for myself (and others) so I wished they would of been a hit for you too.
That’s never happened to me. Interesting
I followed the recipe to the letter and they turned out awesome! The almond milk with water ratio made a perfectly creamy, not too wet, not too dry mix. And maple syrup is super good for you, so I loved being able to incorporate it for a nice subtle sweetness. Thank you for a great new recipe and WAY easier way to do this!
Hi Brittany! So glad you enjoyed the oats! Thank you for this kind review!
I love steel cut oats and this method of cooking them. Thanks much for sharing your recipe! I will share that my instant pot has a ‘keep warm’ feature that will cause the oats to burn. I just make sure that’s off and the oats are perfect each time.
Hi Tom! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review and feedback!
5 starts for easy and delicious. I have the 3 qt IP so halved the recipe and it came out perfect. I had almost given up on oatmeal (steel cut and otherwise), glad I came across this recipe. Thank you!
Hi Suzy! So glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for this kind review!
These are the best oats I’ve ever made. They came out 10p% perfectly. I followed your recipe to the T.
Thank you so much, this is a game changer for me, to make my oats in a big batch in the instant pot !!!
So happy :)
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe, Sam! Thank you for sharing this kind review!
Instant pot wouldn’t come to pressure with the volume of liquid stated in the recipe. I and to add an additional 3/4 cup of water. Results were gummy and almost inedible. Would have given it 0 stars if possible.
Hi Lynne! I’m so sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe. I haven’t heard of this happening before, so I’m not sure what might’ve gone wrong. Did you make any changes to the recipe or ingredient swaps?
Four minutes is not a long enough cook time, even with a 10 minute natural pressure release.
They were too tough and chewy for my liking.
I added a sliced banana as suggested. Great idea. Lovely taste!
I’m sorry you to hear had trouble with the recipe, Elle. I know it’s frustrating to try a new recipe and not have it turn out. I (and many other readers) have enjoyed them, so I really wish they would’ve been a hit for you too! It’s hard to say what went wrong without being in the kitchen with you.
Its delicious , hygienic and time saving worryless recipe.
Hi Ashok! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I have scrolled over and over and found no amounts
Hi Tracy, I’m so confused because I see it on my end. It’s in the recipe card right above where you commented. You can even hit the “jump to recipe” button at the top of the page to get there faster. Could you please check again?
I liked it, but next time I’ll try a little more liquid. This solidified a LOT after cooling, and I like my oats a bit looser and softer in texture.
Hi Jack! So glad you enjoyed the recipe. Thank you for this kind review!
Hi. Diamond and Morton have very different weights per teaspoon of their kosher salt. I learned this the hard way when curing a pastrami. Diamond’s kosher salt is 3g per teaspoon, and Morton’s is 5g per teaspoon because Diamond flakes are bigger and less dense. Which brand did you use in your recipe?
Hi Bryan! I typically use Morton’s. Hope you enjoy it!
Have made this countless times….NEVER FAILS. This is the best recipe and has the perfect amount of sweetness. I have always loved steel cut oats….especially the quickness with the instant pot. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Alaina! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Smells and tastes amazing, got a burn notice when using 3C water, 1 C unsweetened almond milk
Hi Eric! Was any steam releasing while it was coming to pressure? Glad you were still able to enjoy it!
Hi Erin,
I think I got it figured out actually, was an issue with the machine seal and possibly the black knob doodad on the lid! Made oats again yesterday morning and no burn notice. I used 1.25C oat milk instead of almond milk. Everyone loved them and I brought the leftovers for my breakfast this morning. Truth be told that’s all I’ve had to eat today as I was so full from them. It’s 4pm and I’m still full. :)
Thanks for the great recipe!
Awesome! Thank you for coming back and telling me!
Hi! Love this recipe! Is is 63g of carbs per serving?
Hi Briana! Roughly, yes. The nutritional information is not always completely accurate and can vary depending on ingredients and brands of ingredients used. When in doubt I would double check with a free source like myfitnesspal.com. Hope this helps!
Can you double this recipe?
HI VB! I haven’t tried doubling this recipe before. However, as long as the contents don’t go over the max fill line, it should work fine. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
Thank you for this recipe! As far as flavor goes this is the best steel cut recipe that I’ve ever used. Like some others I do find the oats as bit too chewy directly after the 10 minute natural release time. But after overnight refrigeration the texture is perfect and it’s so, so good.
Hi Tonisha! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I wanted to mention that following the recipe yields oats that are on the hard side.
Adding more natural release time after pressure cooking would probably fix it – next time I”m going to let it sit for 20 min before opening. Now I have to figure out how to finish cooking these oats the rest of the way without any liquid left….
Sorry to hear that you had trouble with the recipe, Zeb. The timing has worked well for myself (and others) so I wish it would have worked well for you too.
Hi! I followed the recipe to the letter and it turned out great. I have tried other recipes and it’s resulted in overly soft, mushy oats so yours is just right for me.👌
Is it possible to double the recipe and keep the same cooking specs? Or do I double the four minute pressure cooking time? Thank you!
Hi Illene, I haven’t tried doubling this recipe before, but I’m afraid it might not fit in a 6-quart Instant Pot. However, as long as the contents don’t go over the max fill line, it should work fine. I hope you enjoy the recipe if you try it!
Mine burn all the time. Instead, I use medium pressure or the rice setting. Rice setting for me is set and forget.
Thanks for the feedback JD!
Do you have any tips for adding the pumpkin? I keep getting a burn notice
Hi Briana, I’d make sure there was no vapor/ or stem releasing when it’s coming up to pressure. Hope this helps!
I’ve tried to use this recipe many times over and granted, I prefer to use mostly homemade nut milks instead of mostly water, 9 times out of ten, it get food burned. Is that a common theme with oats? Or is using too much nut milk the culprit? Has anyone else had any issues when making steel cut oats in their InstantPot?
I’m sorry to hear you are having trouble with the recipe Victor. Is there any vapor escaping when your instant pot comes up to pressure?
I tried it once again and again it burned. This time though, I sat there and watched it and I did notice it was taking it’s sweet time to properly seal, it never did. All of that moisture escaped as steam. I’ve been using the less setting thinking perhaps the normal setting was too hot. Cranking it up to more seems counter intuitive, but should I be using the more setting? I’m curious as to why instant pot recipes almost never tell you which of those setting to use. They almost always specify pressure, but not heat. What setting should I use?
If you have moisture escaping, then it’s the seal the issue and that would need to be fixed. Some models for Instant Pots do not have that more setting and I would not use it myself.
Love steel cut oats, really love the ease of now making in the instant pot, and the recipe turned out perfectly. So many comments so not sure if this was addressed, but you can also freeze them for quick easy meals. Just fill muffin/cupcake tins and freeze, once frozen pop them into a ziplock bag or container, store in the freezer. Use as needed by placing in a bowl with a tablespoon or two of milk or water/microwave for approx 1.5 to 2 minutes for each serving. With some good toppings, one can fill you:)
Hi Swan! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
This recipe is terrible. It burns inside instant pot “FOOD BURN” and it stops cooking short of specified time, leaving oats raw.
Sorry to hear that you had trouble with the recipe. The amounts, flavorings and timing have worked well for myself (and others) so I wished it would of been a hit for you too! I know it can be so disappointing to try a new recipe and it not turn out for you.
No it isn’t. It’s a great recipe-I’ve been doing it for months with zero issues. Try getting a new pot or learn to follow the recipe before leaving a trash review.
Awesome recipe! Have used it for many months, and each batch always comes out great. Not sure why people are having an issue with the “burn” warning. Maybe make sure all your ingredients are correctly mixed.
Hi Jason! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
This was my first attempt at make steel cut oats. They were phenomenal. I used full fat raw cows milk with no issues. It was quite thin when I first opened the pressure cooker but it thickened up quickly. I will definitely be making again.
Hi Sara! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I’ve never even used an instant pot before. Tried these 6 months ago and now it’s all I have for breakfast. By rotating fruits and adding the brown sugar crumble topping it’s always a little different and always delicious. Great recipe. For those having issue, I don’t understand. Maybe try sticking to the recipe instead of adding this, that, or the other. Thank you for sharing.
Hi snibbb! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Did you make a typo in the ingredients? I used 4 cups water (no milk) and 2 cup of steel cut oats, along with the flavorings. I have an Instant Pot 6QT model. Cooked according to the times you listed 4 minutes High with 10 minute natural release. It turned out extremely thick and I had to thin it out right away. Yours was the first recipe I looked at. I then checked other recipes and they all use 5 cups liquid for 2 cup of steel cut oats. Did you make a typo?
Hi Ginger! Nope, there is not typo. The method and ingredients have worked well for myself (and others) so I wished it would of been a hit for you too.
We have been steel cut oat fans since a blogger I read featured an “overnight oats” recipe several years ago. I forgot to prepare the oats last night and decided to see if I could find another quicker preparation. I am new to the Instant Pot and I was tickled to find this recipe. The results were excellent! There was a perfect “chew” level to them and they were delicious. Husband asked me if I toasted the oats before I cooked them like I do in the overnight recipe. I hadn’t, but am wondering if that would be an issue using your recipe. It does add a nice nutty quality to the overnight oats and I can’t imagine that it wouldn’t do the same to this recipe- not that they need any enhancement. What do you think of toasting the oats prior to “Insta-Potting” them?
Hi Sue! I haven’t tried it myself but a few readers have toasted theirs in the instant pot on the saute function with a little butter. I think either way you toast them is fine and shouldn’t affect the recipe. Hope you enjoy it!
Dec 2022
This recipe came out so good. The next time I make this recipe, I am going to add 1 extra cup of almond milk. We like our oats creamier. Thank you & Merry Christmas 🎄
Hi Christina! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review! Happy New Year!
Thanks for the recipe! I too have had the burn notice but the next time I added all the ingredients to a metal mixing bowl and then put it in the instant pot. No burn notice.
Thanks for the feedback Jeann!
Made these many times over the past two years. I have done different amounts of milk to water ratio and never got the burn issue so many speak of. Seems like different oats or different machines just behave differently! I hope it works for everyone else who tries these because they are delicious and so easy!
Hi Beth! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I really only looked at this to find liquid to oats ratio and time. Mix-ins are whatever I have on hand. Right this moment I have a sliced apple, handful of dried cherries, and a pumpkin pie spice going. I’ll add frozen blueberries, butter, and either maple syrup or brown sugar for eating. I do pot in pot for oats, and it works well for cleanup. 1 cup of water in bottom, then trivet, then pot with the ingredients. I also like making this the night before and refrigerating for the next day. The leftovers microwave real nice with some milk or water.
Hi Noelle! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Maybe there’s an issue with my pressure cooker, but I’ve made this twice (the second time adding an extra 2 cups of liquid) and both times I got a water warning, because the oats sunk to the bottom and burned.
It’s still edible afterwards, so I’m sure this is a good recipe, I just can’t make it work.
Hi Cole! Sorry to hear about the warning. It’s not something I’ve experienced before. Is there any steam escaping when it comes to pressure?
horrible long spammy SEO Advertising pages
With a recipe that’s 100% useless. No ingredient amounts! Seriously!?
Hi Joe! I’m so confused, because I see it on my end! The recipe is in the recipe card, right above the area where you commented. You can also click the “jump to recipe” button at the top of the screen to get you there faster. Could you please check again!
I followed the recipe as directed and was thrilled with the results. I’m going to try popping some into silicon muffin molds and freeze them according to other reviews! So yummy and easy. May I ask when I could add dried fruit to these? It seems like it would be a tasty treat!
Hi Tiffany! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review! I’m sure you could add some in after they are cooked! Enjoy!
I’ve made this three times with canned coconut milk. I may be able to shed some light on when it burns. The first and third times I made it with standard steel cut oats from my grocery store. Everything was fine. The second time I made it with Bob’s Red Mill steel cut oats. They are smaller (more cut up?) and a different texture than standard steel cut oats. That one gave me the burn warnings and the others didn’t.
Hi Just The Fax! Thank you so much for taking the time to give us feedback on why you get a burn warning! Very helpful!
I feel like there’s not enough liquid for the amount of oats when I started the oats it told me it burned and it did I also don’t use cow milk we use almond or oat I was able to save it but I’d add more milk to it
Sorry to hear you had trouble with the recipe Miss. T. The amounts worked great for myself (and others). Not sure why some instant pot models produce a burn warning. I would make sure your pot is sealed properly and no steam is escaping! Hope this helps!
I was SO nervous to try this recipe because the reviews are a bit of a crap shoot, it seems to either A. work wonderfully and they loved it or B. burn the absolute daylights out of their food and base. I have an 8qt instant pot duo nova, I doubled the recipe and reduced the cooking time to 3 minutes as directed, I measured in grams and ounces because my measuring cups AND spoons seem to have vanished. I used hot water and sweetened vanilla almond milk, I also added in a little bit of ground flax seeds. I stirred it really well making sure to scrape the bottom, put the lid on and then started the pot, then I stopped it, remembered to add in the ground flax seeds and stirred it again and then hit start. I watched this thing the entire time worried and I didn’t need to! It came to pressure, cooked normally, and after a ten minute natural release I released the rest of the pressure and it was perfect. I stirred it and it immediately thickened up and my children loved it, even the child who refuses to eat oatmeal packets unless they’re raw. We added in more honey, and some of the fruit we had on hand and it was excellent. I read another reviewers comment that she thought the recipe not working might have to do with the temperature of the liquid and I am inclined to agree with her, try using warm water.
Hi Nalani! Thank you so much for your review and feedback! It’s so helpful! Glad you enjoyed it!
Can I half the recipe in a 6 quart instant pot?
Hi Debbie! Yes, you probably could. Enjoy!
I have always loved steel cut oats, but I have never made them ready to eat with all the seasonings before. GAME CHANGER! I why I never thought to freeze them in muffin molds before either – no idea… Thank you for my new favorite recipe. My frozen Oatmeal is the ultimate easy meal replacement!
Hi cmbs! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
I like the flavors and suggested toppings this recipe offers! The cooking time is also favorable! However, the amount it makes is overwhelming for a single person. If the recipe is halved, do I reduce the cooking time?
Hi Mimi! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review! No need to reduce the cooking time unless you are using an 8qt pot. Enjoy!
Just got my first Insta Pot and this recipe was great! Do have a newbie question. If I decrease the ingredients (i.e. by half) the cooking time is the same right? I’m just prepping this for myself, and don’t mind storing and reheating..but curious about the time on different amounts. Thanks!
Hi David! Yes, the cooking time should be the same. Enjoy!
I’ve been using this recipe for about a year and i never get the “burn” error. I even use 3 parts dairy milk to 1 part water. Not sure why others have trouble. I double the cinnamon because I’m spicy that way. :)
Hi Robbie! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Perfect recipe. Love it. I followed the suggestion I read somewhere, to put leftover oats in greased muffin tins, cover w/ plastic wrap, and freeze. When frozen, pop them out (it may take a little loosening with a butter knife), put them in a ziploc bag and return to the freezer. For individual adult servings, I take out two frozen “pucks”, put them in a microwave-proof bowl, add a tiny bit of water, and zap in the microwave for one or two minutes, stirring once. Hooray for steelcut oats!
Hi Linda! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review! Great method for the leftovers!
I made this exactly as directed and it turned out perfect! And this was my first time being successful at making steel cut oats. Thank you!
Hi Nichole! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review
I accidentally bought Quick Steel Cut Oats this time. I’ve never used these before.
Do you think I can use this recipe in the same way? Any adjustments recommended? I have the 8 quart InstaPot
Hi Eileen! I would not recommend them for this recipe.
I agree with everyone else that this is a perfect recipe! I have always had issue with making steel cut oats, and this worked perfectly this morning. I did two parts water to one part almond milk and it was delicious! Thank you, thank you!!
Hi Laura! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Hi. I made your recipe for Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats this morning and it turned out wonderfully. I have an 8 quart IP and your timing was perfect. Thank you so much for this easy recipe.
Hi Pamela! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
This is one of the most satisfying oatmeal recipes. I have always loved steel cut oats but I have never had them taste like this before. There seems to be this rich, dreamy buttery, nutty flavor right out of the pot before I even add toppings. It’s a go to for my fam. Thanks for creating/sharing.
Hi JoLayne! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Hi Aaron the recipe is great for the people that are having burn problems I do a double boiler you put your rack on the bottom use a stainless steel bowl makes it the same way same amount of time and it comes up perfect and it will never ever burn and it’s easier to clean up cuz you have one bowl and other than that that’s a good remedy for that burn cuz that has happened not to me but other other recipes I’ve made in it’s a bummer anyway thank you for the recipe you have a great day and keep on giving us some great recipes love it thank you….
Thanks Vince!
With my six quart Instant Pot Pro, I followed your recipe card to a T, taking extra time to mix in throughly the cinnamon and salt to avoid any “burn” notice. I did not add any optional sugars or sweeteners. On my Instant Pot, and using “natural release,” it took sixteen minutes before the warning red light disappeared. It was well worth the extra few minutes; the oatmeal was delicious, as promised. Thanks Erin, take a bow. Two thumbs up. Way up!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Bob!
This recipe is so delicious. I made it several times in my instant pot for various occasions and it cooks perfectly and it is always a hit. Recently I made a big batch to take camping and it was the best decision. It stored well in the cooler and heated up easily and tasted delicious. Thank you Erin for this delicious way to cook steel cut oats!
Hi Nancy! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
Wonderful recipe! My oatmeal came out perfectly!
Hi M! So glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thank you for this kind review!
How do you reheat if you do not have a microwave?
Hi Patty! You can reheat on the stove or using your instant pot. Enjoy!
Not sure if anyone has mentioned this but if you get the burn message you can always place the ingredients in an inner pot for pressure cooking to avoid burning.
Great tip! Thank you Kathryn!
Epic Fail. Tried this for 1st time in 6qt IP using unsweetened almond milk and got burn message on the instant pot. 30+ mins of wasted time to the burn message.
Addition research shows many people have this issue and the correct ratio for steel cut oats recipe needs to be 1 SC oats: 2.5 liquid ratio.
I’ll use another recipe site next time
Ross, I’d like to help troubleshoot this—can you share which Instant Pot you have? I make these regularly and haven’t been able to replicate the issue.
Can someone tell me what I did wrong? It burned at the bottom of my Instantpot
Rachelle, I’d like to help troubleshoot this—can you share which Instant Pot you have (and how old it is)? I make these regularly and haven’t been able to replicate the issue. My IP is older (almost 7 years) so I am wondering if newer models burn more easily?
I’ve made this Instant Pot Steele Cut Oatmeal recipe several times. I’ve loved it every time. Thank you for sharing.
So happy to hear! Thank you Nancy!
Amazing! Now i like oatmeal. 😆
Yay! Thanks Sarah!
Made this today and it is fantastic. I used three cups of water and 1 cup of dairy milk and didn’t have any problems with burning. I am using a generic version of the Instant Pot and the minimum time I could set it for their equivalent of high pressure was 10 minutes.
Thanks for sharing Kelly!!
Just made this, turned out perfect. So easy in my Instant Pot. The timing was just right. The amount of maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness. I used coconut milk because that was what I had, and it worked great. I’ll be making my steel cut oats like this all winter.
Yay! Great to hear Bernadette!
Way too little liquid!!!! The McCann’s recipe is 1 cup oats + 4 cups water and the result is perfect. Using this recipe, 2 cups of oats + 4 cups of liquid, resulted in slightly burnt bottom and a sticky mass of oats, not surprising as the amount of water is half that McCann’s recommends! I see no reason to alter the McCann’s recipe simply because one is using an instapot.
I’m sorry you had trouble with it Jonathan. The method has been tested this way with success for myself (and others) so I wished it would of been a hit for you too.
Unfortunately, even though I followed the recipe exactly, I got the burn error as well using an 8qt pot.
Hi Rachel, I’d like to help troubleshoot this—was there any steam escaping when it was coming up to pressure? I make these regularly and haven’t been able to replicate the issue
Can I make 1/2 cup oats to 1 cup liquid in the mini? I’ve been looking and some people say I can cook in a glass or metal bowl that’s placed on the rack inside the instant pot stainless insert, adding an additional 1 cup water under the rack. I’ve never done bowl in bowl cooking in my 6 qt machine, but maybe I don’t need two instant pots, lol.
I get I can cook a whole cup and have it as leftovers, but still wondering about minimum amount in the mini.
Any suggestions appreciated. THANKS!!!
Hi Amy, I do not have a mini so I really don’t know. I think you could check in your owners manual. It might have some guidance on what the minimum amount would be. Hope this helps!
Thanks for the recipe!
Just wanted to mention that steel cut oats are not necessarily gluten free. They still can get cross contaminated with wheat like other conventional oats unless they’ve been cultivated and processed specifically to be gluten free
Followed to a T. But got a burn error before I got to pressure. 🤷
Stirred everything. Who knows!
I’m sorry to hear you had trouble Dani. We haven’t been able to replicate the issue but we think it has to do with certain Instant pot models.
Sorry for the double comment. It doesn’t seem like there’s enough liquid for 2 cups of steel cut oats? Isn’t the usual ratio 1:4?
Yes, these are the measurements we use. Hope this helps!
You have 2 cups of oats to 3 cups of water in your recipe which is why I think the burn code keeps coming up. Would need to be at least 4 cups of water. Mine got the burn signal too and I have the brand name instant pot 6 qt.
Hi Allison, the measurements we have are correct based on our testings. We have not been able to replicate the issues that some folks are having, and we have equally those who don’t have any issue. Definitely adjust based on your own pressure cooker. Thanks!
It’s three cups of water and one cup of almond milk, so still four cups of liquid.
Overall, I’m happy with this recipe in my mini instant pot (serving size set to 2). I do find the oats to be a bit too hard (chewy?) for my taste. Do I add more liquid or adjust the time to make them softer?
Hi Michaela, I haven’t tried it myself but I believe you could just add a few more minutes to the cooking time. If you decide to experiment, I’d love to know how it goes!
I thought the ratio was off too, but I discovered after following the recipe that it works. Then I remembered that a pressure cooker is a closed cooking system. In an open pot, half the liquid evaporates while the other half gets absorbed. I just bought my mini 3qt instant pot and this is my first thing I cooked. Nothing evaporates. I made just as much as on my stove top and the IP makes the same amount with half the liquid. I love the addition of the milk. Tastes great.
Thanks for the feedback, Janice!
Great recipe! I have made this MANY times with regular whole milk and never had a burn issue. I don’t use almond milk, so not sure why some are getting burn notices. The only time I have ever gotten a burn notice is if there was residue on the inner pot.
So glad to hear, thank you so much Jackie!
Made the full recipe in a 3 quart without issue. The recipe doesn’t need to be cut in half.
Great to hear, thank you Melissa!
Thanks for the feedback, Melissa!
It almost immediately goes to “burn” mode when using oat milk.
However, I’ve found that if I let the pressure release on its own after the burn warning, it comes out fine
Thanks for the tip, Mike.
Very good; however, when I let the pressure release on instant pot, it made a HUGE mess. 🤣
So I don’t know what went wrong.
Hi Meghan, I don’t necessarily think anything went wrong. That can happen sometimes with the Instant Pot when doing a quick release, depending on what is being cooked. Next try allow to set about a minute and then try the quick release. Glad you enjoyed it!
okay I just want to say something out the gate you say to you six cups of steel cut oats and then nine cups of water and then three cups of milk. I’m using an 8 quart instant pot that overfills that thing by so much. it’s not funny you will never get all of the liquid in if you use exactly what you’re saying. additionally, you say in your nutritious information that it’s per one of four if you use all that you’re getting more than four servings. a serving is a half a cup of steel cut oats. so I’m not certain where you’re getting that from, but it sounds like you’re measurements are way off. oh I guess I should probably say I’m using the three times recipe. it just seems like those measurements are so far off. it’s not funny. I mean I did 10 cups of liquid. I didn’t get a burn notice whatsoever but just at the point when it was starting to boil you could tell it was too full because it wanted to start spouting the liquid because it was too full. luckily it went straight into boiling and it sealed and I’m going to let naturally decompress so that I don’t have a mess trying to drain the steam. I just don’t know that that’s right. you might want to adjust the three times cuz I’m thinking it’s wrong. I’m also using Quaker oats steel cut and their ratio is 1/4 of a cup. still cut to one cup of water. so 6 cups of oats would equate to 24 cups of water or milk or whatever you’re going to use? maybe I’m wrong, I just don’t think that makes a lot of sense. and don’t get me wrong. I did it anyway and I’m still waiting for it to naturally vent because it’s going to make a mess otherwise.
You should never put anything more than the fill line in your Instant Pot based off of their recommendations. If 3x means it’s too full then by all means, don’t do it. You’d likely need a 10qt for that much, but I think you probably know all of this.
Excellent!! Our go to recipe–my husband, son and I adore it! Delicious!Thank you so much! Wouldn’t change a thing!
Love it! Thanks Linda!
Thank you for your time of putting this recipe out there! It is amazing! I love the details and I love all the topping suggestions too! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it Jennifer!
i make this recipe every week and store single servings in a mason jar. so easy to add a little extra milk and berries and reheat in the microwave
Yay! Makes me so happy to hear, thank you Kelly!
I make this recipe once a week and it gives my husband and I breakfast for 3-4 days. I follow the instructions exactly and the steel cut oats come out perfectly every time.
So happy to hear that, Julia! Thank you!
I’ve been making this recipe for a long time. I sometimes use 2% milk with water and sometimes almond milk with and without water. I’ll make 2 cups of oats or 1 cup of oats and adjust the milk accordingly. It works well everytime and keeps in the fridge for at least 4 to 5 days. I also add shredded coconut before cooking. Delicious.
Glad to hear you enjoyed it, PC! Thank you!
Good recipe but WAY too many annoying pop up ads!
I’m truly sorry for any inconvenience the ads caused you, Steve. I will certainly keep paying close attention to the number of ads and how they load, as I never want them to hinder your ability to view the recipe or the blog post. I do truly appreciate your feedback and apologize again for the inconvenience! Also, there is a quick and convenient “jump to recipe” button that will help you get to the recipe faster and a print button to have the recipe quickly at your fingertips. Hope this helps!
Delicious, but are the portions correct? 2 cups of oats for 4 servings? The bag of Bob’s Red Mill organic steel cut oats says 1 cup for 4 servings.
I made it according to your recipe, and two of us had 1 cup of cooked oats. It was a lot, and I filled a quart mason jar with the leftovers.
But best oatmeal I’ve ever eaten!
Hi Jennifer! Glad you enjoyed it! Yep, it’s correct!
I SOLVED THE BURN PROBLEM! First let me say I love this recipe and make it all the time. After making this ~10 times I got the burn warning. Then I got it a couple more times. Went to water only and that didn’t solve it. Then I realized that the package of steel cut oats I had was very dusty and the oats were cut particularly small. I think it was the bottom of the barrel. I bought a new package and voila – no burn warning. Not sure if there is a way to rinse a dusty batch of oats or not. I haven’t tried it. Note that when I did get the burn warning I just stopped the instant pot, let it sit for 10 minutes and the oats were fine. I just didn’t scrape the bottom. 😊
Thank you so much for reporting back Joanne! We really appreciate it!
I thought the ratio was off too, but I discovered after following the recipe that it works. Then I remembered that a pressure cooker is a closed cooking system. In an open pot, half the liquid evaporates while the other half gets absorbed. I just bought my mini 3qt instant pot and this is my first thing I cooked. Nothing evaporates. I made just as much as on my stove top and the IP makes the same amount with half the liquid. I love the addition of the milk. Tastes great.
Glad you enjoyed it, Janice!
I make this in a 3 qt mini using a pot in a pot method. Only make a 1/2 cup since its only me. Use milk and water. Comes out great and easy clean up.
Thanks for the feedback, Patrick!
This came out perfect, I made it exactly as written. (used soy milk) This is now my go to way of making this!
Thank you Lyn!
I actually followed the ratios and the time as written, not via the update. I used half dairy milk and half water and I actually reduced the amount in the entire recipe by half only because I didn’t need as much as the recipe called for. In addition, I used brown sugar instead of maple syrup because that’s our taste preference and then in the end, before I took it out of the instant pot, I added frozen berries, a little scrape of fresh nutmeg, And dash of cloves. Gave it a good stir and let it sit there while the frozen berries thawed. It was a huge success!
Great to hear! Thank you!
Mine also burned. I think the burn might have more to do with the brand of steel cut oats than the type of milk. I used soy milk and Coaches oats (from Costco). It seemed dry. I think next time I’ll use more liquid to be 1:3 ratio rather than 1:2.
Thanks for the feedback, Laura!
It burned in the instapot almost immediately. I think the add ins were responsible.
I’m sorry to hear you had problems with the recipe, Duff. It has worked well for myself (and others) and I wished it would have been a hit for you too.
For oatmeal, polenta, and risotto, I put the recipe as given into a bowl (glass or stainless) on a rack inside the IP liner pot, with a cup of water underneath in the IP pot. No burning that way.
Thanks for the tip, Sylvia!
Hi Laura. Hey those Coaches oats are not “Steel cut” oats…..
Wonderful recipe!!! So easy and delicious.
Thank you Judy!
This recipe as written burned in my instant pot (using water and not milk). My pot had no buildup on the bottom and everything was exactly as instructed.
May need different instructions for different models?
I may just stick to overnight after this.
I’m sorry to hear you had trouble with the recipe, Darren. We don’t have the ability to tests this in all of the models. Thanks for the feedback.
This is the ONLY steel cut oats recipe I use. So much so, that it’s committed to memory.
Thank you for this and everything else that’s “Well Plated!”
So happy to hear this, thank you Cathy!
The liquid:oats ratio is much lower than most other recipes and I ended up having to re-run the cycle adding cups more water.
I’m sorry to hear you had problems with the recipe, Tripp. It has worked well for myself (and others) and I wished it would have been a hit for you too.
Unfortunately, I received a burn notice during the preheating phase 4 times. I tried adding more water to see if it might help (as there was little left when I opened the Instant Pot the first time) it didn’t. I used water and maple syrup. To start, I followed all of the instructions but I think the water to oats ratio is off looking at other recipes out there (if you are only using water). I would be curious to know if anyone using just water was successful. I noticed most of the other recipes do not put add ins while its cooking. Should you not stir the ingredients at the beginning? I used a new Instant Pot Duo Plus (and it was clean before starting).
Hi Cherie, I’m sorry to hear you had trouble with the recipe. I’m really not sure why some people get a warning and some people do, based on the model that is being used. For my personal one, I’ve not had this issue so it’s hard for me to know why it’s happening with yours. I’m not sure why there is little water left if it is sealing properly. No steam should be releasing, or this can definitely result in a burn warning. Hope this helps!
I used 8 cups water and 4 cups steel oats with salt being the only thing I added when cooking. The oats came out perfect! Unfortunately, like Mindy commented 4-15-20, when I released the pressure valve, it spewed a mixture of stem and oat residue all over. It made a big mess over the counter, cabinets, floor and IP.
I was hoping that the hands-off approach would work in the IP as I have the boiling over issue when cooking them on the stove top and they have to be watched closely.
If anyone knows why this happens and if there is anything I can do to prevent it, I would appreciate it. I have used Bobs Red Mill steel cut oats and ones I get from the health food store; both cause the same issue.
Thank you.
I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it, Mark! When it comes to releasing the pressure, vapor always releases through the valve. Because of the nature of the recipe with the oats, I am not sure it is unavoidable to have some of the oat residue also release. Only way to combat that is to do a natural release. If you test it out this way, let us know how it goes!
Hi! Try throwing an old rag on top before release to catch the spew. I used this method on occasion!
Thanks for the tip, Marta!
Another burn fail over here. This was the first recipe I tried in my brand new IP and I am so sad that it didn’t work and scorched my new pot. It gave me the burn message three times. After the first two times, I added water and stirred vigorously but as it heated up again, it kept sticking to the bottom. I used oat milk for the milk. I think I ended up adding about 3 cups water and it still wasn’t enough. We were able to eat it, so I guess all wasn’t lost, but I’m still sad and definitely think you need to rework your recipe.
I’m so sorry to hear you had trouble with the recipe, Bridget. Using my personal instant pot I do not get a burn message so not sure how to replicate the issue that others are having with their personal appliance.
I appreciated so much detail distinguishing the oats from each other, etc., but I looked in vain for the suggested proportion of steel cut oats to water (or milk). Perhaps it was well buried. Still, when a recipe says “Ingredients” and even recommends measuring spoons, one would expect amounts of the ingredients.
I’m so confused, Esther, because I see it on my end! The recipe is in the recipe card, right above the area where you commented. You can also click the “jump to recipe” button at the top of the screen to help get you there faster. Could you please check again!
I tried to recipe but halfed it and I used whole milk Instead of almond milk. I also waited to add my sweetener at the end. It came out a bit too firm for my liking so I added another 1.5 cups of water and a splash of milk. Put it back on high pressure for another seven minutes and then the texture was right. I think I will try the slow cooker method next to compare the two.
I forgot to mention that I used sprouts organic cut oats.
Thank you so much for sharing!!
I am cooking for one so didn’t need the entire recipe. I cut everything in half and it came out perfectly. I have a 6 qt instant pot and it’s probably the Duo modal so it is an older instant pot. No burn notice , and perfect texture of my oats. I love steel
Cut oats and will make mine with this recipe
forever more. Thanks for a great recipe!!!!!
So glad to hear! Thank you for sharing!
Question……Erin…..
Can I triple this recipe and still utilize my 6 quart InstaPot? Going to a Christmas Eve Brunch and need a gluten free entree.
THANKS!!
Hi Laurie, I do not believe a triple batch would fit into a 6 quart ip.
Thank you for making my life easier
I did exactly as recipe stated minus cinnamon and maple syrup and it is perfect
Yay! Great to hear, Sheila!
To avoid the burn notice, do not add the maple syrup when cooking. Add it after you are done. The sugars are burning.
Hi Celia, we didn’t experience that when testing it in our instant pot but definitely add it later if that helps when making it! Thanks for the tip!
I have an electric kettle which speeds this process. I measure my water into the kettle. measure the oats and salt into the instant pot and start the timer. By the time the water is boiling the pot is getting hot. I up the minutes to 5 and then quick release if I am in a hurry. So the whole thing is done in about 6-7 minutes.
So great to hear, Jo-Lynne! Thanks for the tip!
Made as directed with all water, 6 quart Instant Pot, and it worked brilliantly. Best oatmeal ever. Thank you!
So glad to hear! Thank you Annette!
I made the recipe using one cup of whole milk instead of almond milk. They still oats came out perfect, no burning or charing.
Wonderful to hear, Robert! Thank you and looks great!
We absolutely loved it! I make this weekly and portion it out for easy to-do breakfasts.
Thank you Chelle!
The idea of cooking steel cut oats in an instapot is brilliant, but the proportions are so wrong. The normal amount of water for steelcut oats is 4 to 1. Cutting that in half is way too gluey. I use 1 1/4 cups steelcut oats for 4 cups of water in an instapot and it comes out perfectly. Seems thin when you first open the pot, but sets up as it cools. I make one batch a week, and rewarm it in the mornings.
I’m sorry to hear that you had trouble with the recipe, Anastasia. The amounts, flavorings and timing have worked well for myself (and others) so I wished it would have been a hit for you too! I know it can be so disappointing to try a new recipe and it does not turn out for you.
Loved it except for the cinnamon. Thank you!
Thank you Kelli!
I continue to come back to this recipe often, it hits all the marks for me! Cinnamon, maple syrup. I add chopped almonds in my single serving of 1/3 cup plus a couple of scrambled eggs. Perfect 👌
So glad to hear, Elyce! Thank you!
If you use the sauté function to toast the oats first, it adds so much flavor. About a tablespoon of butter, until it starts to smell like popcorn.
Thanks for the tip, Bookwyrm!
Hi Lauren, I’m so sorry to hear that you had trouble with this recipe. I’ve never had this happen before, so I’m not sure what might’ve gone wrong. Did you stir the ingredients before sealing the Instant Pot? I hope you were still able to enjoy it!
Oh my gosh, I have been trying to replicate this oatmeal I had in Puerto Rico a year ago that blew my mind and have failed countless times. This is it!!!! So good and so easy in the insta pot. Mine usually turn out very gooey like glue and I toss them. I am almost in tears because these turned out just right and so delicious. I followed your recipe except used 2 tablespoons of maple syrup because I like things to be barely sweet and I topped with walnuts and blueberries. So delicious!!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed it, Tonya! Thank you for sharing this kind review!