How To Make Creamy Oatmeal That Actually Tastes Good

Making oatmeal may seem fairly obvious. There’s probably even a guide on the back of your box of oats. However, we’re here to say, don’t listen to that! That is, if you want to make the best, creamiest oatmeal ever. 

Got questions? We’ve got the answers. Here’s everything you’ve always wanted to know about oatmeal. 

Avoid instant oats. Sure, the word “instant” is appealing. But once cooked, these oats usually turn out sad and mushy. Plus, they've got all sorts of added sugars and flavors. We say skip the packets and personalize with your own sweetness level and flavors. "Quick-cooking" is totally fine, btw!

Nail the ratio. For steel cut, measure ¼ cup oats to 1 cup water. For rolled or quick-cooking oats, the ratio is ½ cup oats to 1 cup water. Memorize these easy ratios and you’ll never end up with dry or mushy oats again. 

Should I use water or milk? You could use water, but we highly recommend milk. Not only for flavor, but for all that calcium! Nut or plant milks work great, too. Using milk is also an easy way to add creaminess. Win-win. 

Can I make oatmeal in the microwave? Definitely. Just be sure to use a microwave safe bowl. When oats cook in the microwave, the liquid bubbles up like crazy, so use a bigger bowl to avoid spillage! We also recommend doubling the cook-time and cooking on 50% power. 

How should I prepare it? The possibilities are endless. Oatmeal is a blank canvas for your fave flavors. Mix and match chopped fruit, toasted nuts or seeds, dried fruit, Nutella or peanut butter, maple syrup, and warm spices. It’s also a great vehicle for leftovers, like roasted sweet potato. And don’t forget to add a pinch of salt! 

Can I make it ahead? Absolutely! Are you super rushed in the morning—a.k.a. the kind of person who snoozes your alarm at least 5 times? We feel you. Make a big batch of oatmeal for the week on Sunday and store it in your fridge! Just re-warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes with a small splash of milk and you’re good to go.

Want to learn how to make oatmeal in the slow cooker? Check out this blueberry version.