This Instant Pot oatmeal uses the pot-in-pot method so the oats cook gently in a heat-safe bowl placed on a trivet inside the inner pot. Use a glass, ceramic, or metal bowl that fits comfortably in your Instant Pot. From prep to finish the recipe takes under 30 minutes, delivering creamy, perfectly cooked oats with minimal effort.
The base recipe is simple and neutral to let you customize it however you like. A few tablespoons of maple syrup or brown sugar, a cinnamon stick, or a cup of finely chopped apple with cinnamon make excellent additions. If you have leftover pumpkin purée, stir in about 1/3 cup along with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves for a cozy seasonal version.
What You’ll Like About This Dish
Hands-off cooking. The Instant Pot produces consistently creamy oats without stirring.
Clean and easy. The pot-in-pot approach prevents sticking and scorching.
Versatile base. Use this oatmeal as a canvas for sweet or savory toppings and mix-ins.
Meal prep friendly. Make a batch ahead for quick breakfasts all week.
Ingredient Notes
- Rolled oats – Old-fashioned oats yield a creamy texture with a pleasant chew.
- Water and milk – Combining both gives creaminess without making the oats too heavy; use dairy or plant milk as you prefer.
- Salt – A small pinch enhances the oats’ flavor.
- Toppings – Fresh fruit, nuts, maple syrup, and spices all complement this base well.
Steps to Make Instant Pot Oatmeal
- Add water to the Instant Pot and set a trivet inside.
- Combine the oats, water, milk, and salt in a heat-safe bowl that fits the pot.
- Place the bowl on the trivet inside the pot.
- Seal the Instant Pot and pressure-cook until the oats are tender.
- Allow a brief natural release, then carefully open the lid.
- Stir the oatmeal to adjust the texture.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Tips
- Choose a bowl that fits comfortably inside the Instant Pot without touching the sides.
- If the oatmeal is thicker than you like, stir in a splash of milk after cooking to loosen it.
- Add sweeteners or delicate spices after cooking to keep flavors bright.
- Double the batch if you have a larger bowl that fits the inner pot.
Make-Ahead
Prepare the oatmeal ahead of time and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat with a little milk or water and finish with toppings before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Cinnamon apple. Stir in diced apples and cinnamon after cooking.
- Berry maple. Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Peanut butter banana. Mix in peanut butter and sliced banana for richness.
- Savory oats. Add cheese, herbs, and a fried egg for a savory breakfast bowl.
- Chai-spiced. Blend in cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and a splash of vanilla for warm chai notes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or dried fruit.
- Pair with nuts or seeds for crunch and extra protein.
- Add maple syrup, honey, or cinnamon sugar to sweeten.
- Top with yogurt or cream for added richness.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of nut butter.
How to Store
Refrigerate: Keep leftover oatmeal in an airtight container for up to 4 days; it will thicken as it cools.
Freeze: Portion into single servings and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in milk or water to restore a creamy consistency.
Instant Pot Oatmeal
Diana Rattray
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Ingredients
- 3 cups water, divided (1 for the pot and 2 for the oatmeal)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ tsp salt
Recommended Equipment
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Instant Pot (6-quart or similar)
Instructions
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Prepare the Instant Pot: Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
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Prepare the Oats: In a heat-safe bowl that fits inside the Instant Pot, combine the oats, 2 cups of water, the milk, and salt. Set the bowl on the trivet and lower it into the pot.
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Pressure-Cook: Secure the lid and set the steam release valve to sealing. Choose manual/pressure cook on high and set the timer for 8 minutes. When cooking finishes, allow a 5-minute natural release, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid and stir the oatmeal.
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Serve the Oatmeal: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top with berries, brown sugar, maple syrup, bananas, nuts, or any toppings you prefer.
Nutrition
Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimates generated from an ingredient analysis tool. Values may vary depending on brands, measurements, and serving sizes.