Instant Pot Oatmeal (super easy w/ topping ideas) - Veggie Chick (2024)

Learn to make Instant Pot oatmeal in no time! It’s as easy as pouring in the oatmeal and water, and pressing a button. The Instant Pot can transform your mornings, giving you more time to enjoy this delicious breakfast/snack.

So I have to admit that for the majorityof my life, I didn’t like oatmeal. Or at least, I didn’t “think” I liked it. I tried it many times, butthe texture never did itfor me. But I finally realized that I never had oatmeal MY way (more firm with tons of toppings). This was a game changer for me.

So if you aren’t an oatmeal lover (not sure why you’d be reading this post if not haha, but you never know!) I implore you to give it another shot and experiment with what may work for you.

Pressure Cooker vs. On the Stove:

After realizing that I actually liked oatmeal, I made it on the stove and it boiled over. Have you ever had this happen? If so, you can understand how ridiculously messy, gross, and frustrating it can be to clean it up. UGH. And this is why the Instant Pot/pressure cooker is a dream come true for oatmeal!

Yes, while the Instant Pot may not be “instant” (it does take time to build and release pressure), I find a lot of joy in the fact I can “set it and forget it”, with no possibility of the pot boiling over! No dirty stove- just fresh, hot oatmeal ready to top with yourfavorites and enjoy.

Pro tips for perfect oatmeal every time:

• This recipe calls for 2 1/2 to 3 cups water. For this amount, it will all depend on how thick/thin you like your oatmeal. If you’re not sure, err on the side of less with 2 1/2 cups water (you can always add a bit more plant-based milk later to thin it out).
• Some 8-quart Instant Pots may give a “burn” message. If you have any issues, I highly recommend checking out this blog post—> Instant Pot Burn Message– which can help you troubleshoot the issue. And if you do have an 8-quart, I’d recommend adding at least 3 cups water to avoid getting that burn message.
• Make sure that your Instant Pot lid is properly sealed (meaning the sealing ring is properly in place and clean) before securing the lid. If not sealed properly, the oatmeal may burn and stick to the bottom of the pot.
• To double the recipe, use the same cooking time (6 minutes).
• Generally, I made this recipe using water. But I also recommend trying out organic apple juice for a tart/sweet twist!

How to make Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

First, add the steel cut oats and the water to the Instant Pot.

Place the lid on the Instant Pot and lock. Then press the Porridge button (you can also use Manual/Pressure Cook) and set to 6 minutes. Turn the knob on the top of the lid to ‘Sealing’ (not venting).

The Instant Pot will turn on and start to build pressure. After about 10 minutes, the timer will automatically set to 6 minutes.

When the 6 minutes are done, it will need to sit for an additional 8-10 minutes to release the pressure (you will see the L0:02, etc. on the screen which means it is releasing pressure).

After the the pressure is released, remove the lid. (Note: If the pressure is not released, you won’t be able to open it).

Stir and add the oatmeal to a bowl, and add toppings of choice (see below for topping ideas). Store this oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-6 days. Note: the oatmeal will thicken more as is sits.

Topping ideas:

1. I love using chopped Medjool dates, but you can also use this easy Date Paste for a smoother sweet addition. Stir in the date paste to the cooked oatmeal.
2. strawberries, flaxseed, chopped Medjool dates, unsweetened coconut flakes and cinnamon (in the photo shown below)
3. dates, pecans, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar
4. bananas, blueberries, walnuts, and maple syrup
5. blackberries, dates, and almond butter
6. vegan chocolate chips, unsweetened coconut flakes, and peanut butter (a great dessert option!)
7. Serve this oatmeal with a glass of Homemade Almond Milk. YUM!
8. Add some homemade Walnut Butter, mixed with cocoa powder and maple syrup.

This recipe makes a total of 2 1/2 cups cooked oatmeal (if using 2 1/2 cups water), which is roughly 2/3 cup per serving. If you use more water, it may change the serving size.

• Instant Pot– If you don’t have an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, this is a good one.
• Measuring Cups– I love to have a variety of different sizes.

If you try this recipe, please let me know! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag your photo with #veggie__chick on Instagram. I just love to see my recipes being made in YOUR kitchen!

Update Notes: This post was originally published in June 2017, but was republished with new photos, step by step instructions, tips, and FAQs in September 2019.