If you’re on a quest to perfect your morning meal, look no further than this cozy, creamy bowl of Oatmeal. Forget bland breakfast routines—this recipe is your passport to both comfort and creativity, with fool-proof instructions and a collection of irresistible flavor ideas. Whether you’re working the stovetop or your trusty Instant Pot, Oatmeal shines as a nourishing blank canvas ready for everything from fresh fruit to decadent mix-ins. Let’s make breakfast the best part of your day with a bowl that’s hearty, wholesome, and totally yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Oatmeal lies in how a handful of simple ingredients can transform into something both satisfying and lush. Each ingredient matters, bringing its own magic—whether that’s creaminess, subtle sweetness, or just the right amount of crunch or spice.
- Rolled old-fashioned oats: The foundation of Oatmeal, these create a creamy yet chewy texture that’s truly comforting.
- Liquid (water, almond milk, etc.): Choose your favorite milk or stick with water; this dictates not just the creaminess but also the flavor undertone of your bowl.
- Himalayan sea salt: Just a pinch brightens every other flavor without overpowering the Oatmeal.
- Optional sweeteners (maple syrup, honey, coconut sugar, etc.): Tailor the sweetness to your preferences or skip altogether for a more natural taste.
- Cocoa powder, shredded coconut, sliced almonds: For the delicious Almond Joy version—together, they create a chocolate-nutty dream.
- Chopped apples and ground cinnamon: Classic flavors shine in the Apple Cinnamon rendition, adding warmth and fruity tang.
- Mashed banana and walnuts or pecans: Essential for that indulgent Banana Nut twist, blending sweetness with crunch.
- Fresh blueberries and vanilla extract: The Blueberry bowl bursts with juicy pops of flavor and a touch of vanilla aroma.
- Peanut butter and preserves: Transform Oatmeal into the ultimate PB&J breakfast experience—nostalgic and utterly satisfying.
- Chopped strawberries and (optionally) melted chocolate: For the Strawberry version, these add bright, sweet, and slightly decadent notes.
How to Make Oatmeal
Step 1: Choose Your Cooking Method
Start by picking between the classic stovetop method or the hands-off Instant Pot approach. Both yield dreamy results—the stovetop gives you more control over creaminess, while the Instant Pot is a life-saver for busy mornings or batch cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
If cooking on the stove, combine your chosen liquid in a medium saucepan and heat until it comes to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low, add a dash of salt along with the rolled oats, and stir every so often to keep things silky rather than sticky. Cook about 10–15 minutes, until the Oatmeal is perfectly creamy and the oats are plump.
Step 3: Instant Pot Oatmeal Made Easy
For Instant Pot enthusiasts, the process is just as simple. Lightly grease the pot, add oats followed by your liquid (stick to the suggested proportions), then secure the lid. Set to ‘Pressure Cook’ for 4 minutes, let the pressure naturally release—about 10-15 minutes—then give everything a hearty stir. The Oatmeal will thicken further as it cools, so don’t worry if there’s some liquid at first.
Step 4: Stir In Flavors
This is where your Oatmeal can really reflect your mood or pantry finds! From the moment your base oats hit perfect creaminess, stir in the ingredients for your flavor of choice. Each addition melds into the Oatmeal, creating a new breakfast experience every time.
Step 5: Top and Serve
Divide your finished Oatmeal into bowls—add a splash more milk if you love extra creaminess—then pile on your favorite toppings! The real secret to crave-worthy Oatmeal is in those last, delicious details.
How to Serve Oatmeal

Garnishes
The final flourish is what takes Oatmeal from simple to spectacular. A shower of shredded coconut, fresh fruit, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter can transform each spoonful. For something extra special, try a dusting of cinnamon, a swirl of honey, or even a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Side Dishes
While Oatmeal is deeply satisfying on its own, it pairs wonderfully with extras like yogurt parfaits, crispy bacon, or even a fresh fruit salad. If you’re looking for a breakfast spread, add some coffee and a glass of freshly squeezed juice for the full effect.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not surprise someone with a build-your-own Oatmeal bar? Set out bowls of toppings and let everyone customize their own bowl. Or, portion Oatmeal into mason jars for a cute and portable meal—perfect for busy mornings or a brunch picnic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made more Oatmeal than you can finish, don’t worry! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and stash it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It will thicken up as it chills but remains just as flavorful.
Freezing
Oatmeal actually freezes beautifully! Portion into single-serving containers and freeze for up to 3 months. This is such a lifesaver for future lazy mornings—just label with the date and flavor for extra credit.
Reheating
To reheat Oatmeal, pop it in the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of liquid (milk or water) and stir to bring back that creamy texture. Top with fresh garnishes to revive all the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rolled oats create a creamier bowl, steel-cut oats offer a chewy bite. They’ll need more liquid and a longer cooking time, especially on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot, but the basic method holds up beautifully.
Is it possible to make this Oatmeal dairy-free and vegan?
Yes, it’s so easy to keep Oatmeal vegan. Just reach for non-dairy milk options like almond, oat, or soy, and sweeten with maple syrup or your favorite plant-based alternative.
How do I prevent my Oatmeal from sticking to the pot?
Stir often and don’t be shy about using a nonstick or well-greased pot. In the Instant Pot, apply a light coating of coconut oil before cooking—less sticking means less stress!
What’s the best Oatmeal variation for kids?
Kids love the Peanut Butter and Jelly and Banana Nut versions, but honestly, Oatmeal’s beauty is in its adaptability. Invite them to create their own mix-ins—they’ll love breakfast more when they’re part of the fun.
Can I prepare Oatmeal as overnight oats?
Definitely! Just combine rolled oats with your liquid and favorite add-ins, refrigerate overnight, and wake up to a cold, creamy treat. Stir and top as desired for a refreshing twist on traditional Oatmeal.
Final Thoughts
With each bowl of Oatmeal, you have endless possibilities to celebrate flavors, textures, and your own creativity. Don’t be afraid to play with combinations or invent your own signature bowl. Give this Oatmeal recipe a try and start your mornings with the most comforting, customizable breakfast out there—you’ll be hooked after just one spoonful!
PrintKeto Breakfast Bowl Recipe
Whether you’re working with the stove or your Instant Pot, this versatile oatmeal recipe offers 6 delicious flavor variations to suit your taste buds. Easy to make and fool-proof!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop, Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Base Recipe
- 1/2 cup rolled old-fashioned oats, gluten-free as necessary
- 1 1/4 cup liquid (water, almond milk, etc.)
- 1/8 teaspoon Himalayan sea salt
- Optional sweetener of choice: maple syrup, honey, coconut sugar, stevia, erythritol, etc.
Almond Joy
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or low-carb liquid sweetener (if desired)
- 1/2 Tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut plus more for topping
- 1 Tbsp slivered or sliced almonds
- Melted chocolate for topping (optional)
Apple Cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped apples, such as gala
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or low-carb liquid sweetener (optional)
- Almond butter or date caramel for topping (optional)
Banana Nut
- 1/2 well-ripened banana, mashed well
- 1 tsp sweetener of choice: coconut sugar, maple syrup, honey, SWERVE, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener (optional)
- 2 Tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans
- Almond butter, peanut butter, or date caramel for topping (optional)
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut for topping (optional)
Blueberry
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon almond butter, plus more for topping if desired
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or low-carb liquid sweetener
- 1/4 cup fresh blueberries plus more for toppings
Peanut Butter and Jelly
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon coconut sugar, honey, or low-carb sweetener (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strawberry or raspberry preserves, jam, or jelly (homemade or favorite brand)
- 2–3 tablespoons smooth or crunchy peanut butter, plus more for topping
- 1 teaspoon freeze-dried strawberries for topping (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon chopped peanuts for topping (optional)
Strawberry
- 1/3 cup chopped strawberries, plus extra slices for topping if desired
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or low-carb liquid sweetener
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2–3 slices freeze-dried strawberries for topping (optional)
- Melted chocolate for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Stovetop Oatmeal – In a medium saucepan, add the liquid and turn the heat to medium-high. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, add salt and oats. Cook until thick and creamy, stirring occasionally. Serve with milk and sweetener if desired.
- Almond Joy – Stir in cocoa powder, coconut, and sweetener into base recipe. Serve with additional milk, coconut, almonds, and melted chocolate.
- Apple Cinnamon – Add apples, cinnamon, and sweetener to base recipe. Serve with milk, apples, and almond butter or date caramel.
- Banana Nut – Mix in mashed banana and cinnamon. Serve with milk, banana slices, walnuts, and almond butter or date caramel.
- Blueberry – Incorporate vanilla and blueberries into base. Serve with milk, blueberries, and almond butter.
- Peanut Butter and Jam – Add sweetener, peanut butter, jam, and vanilla to base. Serve with milk and top with peanut butter, jam, berries, and peanuts.
- Strawberry – Mix in strawberries and sweetener. Serve with milk and top with strawberries and melted chocolate.
- Instant Pot Method – Use 3 cups rolled oats and 5 1/2 cups liquid. Coat pot, add oats and milk. Pressure cook for 4 minutes. Allow natural release, stir and serve.
Notes
- Nutritional info does not include toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 321 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg