How to Make Oatmeal Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade oatmeal with this easy baking recipe that delivers creamy, perfectly cooked results every time. Master the technique for achieving the ideal texture, customize with your favorite mix-ins, and transform humble oats into a nutritious breakfast that keeps you satisfied until lunchtime.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

2 mins

Cook Time:

5 mins

Serves:

1 bowl

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">50g rolled oats (not quick oats)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml water or milk (dairy or plant-based)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Optional sweeteners: 1 tbsp honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Optional toppings: fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg)</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 150 calories

🥑 Fat: 3 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 0.5 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 27 g

🍭 Sugar: 1 g

🍗 Protein: 5 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg

🧂 Sodium: 2 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Small saucepan</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Wooden spoon</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Measure your oats and liquid into a small saucepan. The standard ratio is 1 part oats to 2 parts liquid, but you can adjust this depending on how thick you prefer your oatmeal. Adding a small pinch of salt at this stage is crucial as it enhances the natural flavor of the oats without making them taste salty. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. This gradual heating process allows the oats to release their starches slowly, creating that perfect creamy consistency. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Stir the oatmeal frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The oats will begin absorbing the liquid and thickening. This is where your attention makes all the difference between lumpy and silky oatmeal. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Cook for approximately 5 minutes for rolled oats, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal reaches your desired consistency. You'll notice the mixture transforming from watery to creamy as the oats soften and release their natural starches. If it becomes too thick, simply add a splash more liquid and stir to incorporate. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Remove from heat when the oatmeal has thickened but is still slightly looser than you'd prefer for eating. The oatmeal will continue to thicken as it cools, so this ensures you'll end up with the perfect consistency rather than a solid mass. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Transfer to a bowl and let it rest for 1-2 minutes. This resting period allows the oatmeal to achieve its final texture and cools it to a comfortable eating temperature. Now is the perfect time to add any sweeteners, as they'll melt into the warm oatmeal beautifully. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Top with your favorite additions like fresh berries, sliced banana, a sprinkle of cinnamon, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey. The warm oatmeal creates the perfect base for these flavors to meld together. Enjoy immediately while warm and creamy! </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in How to Make Oatmeal Recipe?

The basic ingredients for oatmeal include rolled oats, water or milk (dairy or plant-based), and a pinch of salt. Optional additions include sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and toppings such as fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices like cinnamon.

How to cook How to Make Oatmeal Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook How to Make Oatmeal Recipe by combining oats and liquid in a 1:2 ratio in a saucepan, bringing to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reducing to medium-low. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until creamy, then remove from heat when slightly looser than desired (it will thicken as it cools). Add toppings and enjoy!

What's the difference between steel-cut, rolled and quick oats for breakfast porridge?

Steel-cut oats are whole oat groats cut into pieces, providing a chewy texture and longer cooking time (20-30 minutes). Rolled oats are steamed and flattened, cooking in 5 minutes with a creamy texture. Quick oats are pre-cooked, dried and rolled thinner, cooking almost instantly but yielding a mushier consistency.

Can I make a large batch of oatmeal and reheat it throughout the week?

Yes! Cook a larger portion following the same method, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions with a splash of milk or water in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. The texture may thicken when stored, so adjust liquid as needed when reheating.

What are the healthiest toppings to add to morning oats for extra nutrition?

Nutritious toppings include fresh or frozen berries (antioxidants), banana slices (potassium), chia or flax seeds (omega-3s), nuts (protein and healthy fats), cinnamon (blood sugar control), and nut butter (protein). These add flavour and boost the nutritional profile without excessive added sugars.

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