Steel cut oats are a hearty and nutritious breakfast option that can keep you full and energized throughout the morning. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the natural, nutty flavor of steel cut oats while providing a blank canvas for your favorite toppings.
If you don't typically have steel cut oats in your pantry, you might need to make a trip to the supermarket. Unlike rolled oats or instant oats, steel cut oats are less processed and have a chewier texture. They can usually be found in the cereal or health food aisle.

Ingredients For Steel Cut Oats Recipe
Steel cut oats: These are whole oat groats that have been chopped into pieces. They have a chewy texture and a nutty flavor.
Water: Used to cook the oats and soften them to the desired consistency.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the oats and balances the dish.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To enhance the flavor of your steel cut oats, consider toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the boiling water. This will bring out a nutty aroma and add depth to your oatmeal.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
steel cut oats - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats have a similar texture and cooking time, making them a good alternative for a hearty breakfast.
steel cut oats - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a high-protein grain that cooks up to a similar consistency and provides a different nutritional profile.
water - Substitute with milk: Using milk instead of water adds creaminess and a richer flavor to the oats.
water - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a dairy-free option that adds a subtle nutty flavor to the oats.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor, especially if you are making a savory version of the oats.
salt - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste adds a complex, savory flavor and can be used in small amounts to replace salt.
Alternative Recipes Similar to This One
How to Store or Freeze Your Oats
- Allow the steel cut oats to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the oats soggy.
- Transfer the cooled oats to an airtight container. Mason jars or BPA-free plastic containers work well.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it easy to have a quick and nutritious breakfast ready throughout the week.
- For longer storage, portion the oats into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags.
- Label each container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the oats have been stored.
- Freeze the portions for up to 3 months. This is perfect for meal prepping and ensures you always have a healthy option on hand.
- To reheat, transfer the frozen oats to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of milk or water to help rehydrate the oats.
- Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Enhance the reheated oats with your favorite toppings. Consider adding fresh berries, nuts, honey, or even a dollop of yogurt for added flavor and nutrition.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Stovetop Method:
- Place the leftover steel cut oats in a saucepan.
- Add a splash of water or milk to loosen the oats.
- Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and creamy.
- Add your favorite toppings like fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
Microwave Method:
- Transfer the oats to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add a bit of water or milk to prevent drying out.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
- Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Top with sliced bananas, cinnamon, or a spoonful of peanut butter.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the oats in an oven-safe dish.
- Stir in a bit of water or milk.
- Cover with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
- Garnish with dried fruits, seeds, or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Double Boiler Method:
- Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the leftover oats to the bowl.
- Stir occasionally, adding a bit of water or milk if needed.
- Heat until the oats are warm and creamy.
- Finish with toppings like maple syrup, chopped apples, or a dollop of yogurt.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is essential for boiling the water and simmering the oats.
Wooden spoon: Use a wooden spoon to stir the oats occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Measuring cup: A measuring cup is necessary to accurately measure the oats and water.
Measuring spoons: Use measuring spoons to measure out the salt.
Stove: A stove is needed to bring the water to a boil and to simmer the oats.
Serving bowls: Once cooked, transfer the oats to serving bowls for enjoying your meal.
Ladle: A ladle can be helpful for serving the hot oats into bowls.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Use a pressure cooker: Cut cooking time by using a pressure cooker. Cook steel cut oats on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
Overnight soaking: Soak steel cut oats in water overnight. This reduces the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes in the morning.
Batch cooking: Make a large batch of steel cut oats and store portions in the fridge. Reheat as needed for a quick breakfast.
Instant pot: Use an Instant Pot to cook steel cut oats in just 4 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release.

Steel Cut Oats Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Steel Cut Oats
- 4 cups Water
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- 1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
- 2. Stir in the steel cut oats and salt.
- 3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes or until the oats are tender.
- 4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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