Healthy Overnight Steel Cut Oats Recipe
Introduction
Steel cut oats offer a hearty and nutritious start to your day, especially when prepared overnight for convenience. This healthy overnight steel cut oats recipe is simple to make and perfect for busy mornings, delivering creamy, satisfying oats with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups steel cut oats (NOT quick cook)
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups milk of choice (unsweetened vanilla almond milk recommended)
- Heaping 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the milk, water, steel cut oats, and kosher salt in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often to prevent boiling over. Once boiling, let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Turn off the burner, cover the pot with a lid, and let it sit at room temperature overnight.
- Step 4: In the morning, stir the oats and enjoy them hot or cold with your favorite toppings.
Tips & Variations
- Use different types of milk, such as oat, soy, or cow’s milk, to adjust the creaminess and flavor.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg before boiling for extra warmth and taste.
- Top with fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey for added texture and sweetness.
Storage
Store any leftover oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if the oats have thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use quick-cooking oats instead of steel cut oats?
Steel cut oats are preferred for this recipe because they hold their texture overnight. Quick-cooking oats will become too mushy and are not recommended.
Is it safe to leave oats out overnight at room temperature?
Yes, because the oats are cooked briefly before resting, and the mixture thickens as it cools. For best results, ensure your kitchen is at a normal room temperature and consume within 24 hours if unsure.
PrintHealthy Overnight Steel Cut Oats Recipe
A simple and healthy recipe for overnight steel cut oats made by boiling oats with milk and water, then letting them soak overnight for a creamy, nutritious breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes prep plus overnight soaking (~8 hours)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups steel cut oats (NOT quick cook)
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups milk of choice (unsweetened vanilla almond milk recommended)
- Heaping 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or dutch oven, combine 2 cups steel cut oats, 4 cups water, 4 cups milk, and a heaping 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir often and carefully watch to ensure it does not boil over. Let it boil for 1-2 minutes.
- Let Soak Overnight: Turn off the burner, cover the pot with a lid, and let the oats sit out on the stove at room temperature overnight. This allows the oats to soak and soften without further cooking.
- Serve: In the morning, stir the oats well. You may eat them hot by reheating if preferred, or enjoy them cold. Add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or sweeteners.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Use steel cut oats for best texture; quick oats will not yield the same result.
- Unsweetened vanilla almond milk provides a mild sweetness but any milk can be substituted.
- Stirring frequently during boiling prevents the oats from sticking and boiling over.
- Soaking overnight softens the oats without extra cooking time in the morning.
- Customize your breakfast by adding toppings like cinnamon, berries, nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Keywords: healthy breakfast, overnight oats, steel cut oats, dairy-free option, make-ahead breakfast
