Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Oatmeal: How to Cook, Store, and Enjoy

On a cold winter morning, there’s no better way to begin the day than with a comforting hot bowl of oatmeal. But deciding which kind of oatmeal to make – steel-cut, old-fashioned, quick cook, or instant – shouldn’t be taxing your brain when you’ve just got out of bed. If you’re confused about the different types of oats and the best ways to prepare delicious oatmeal with them, this comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know.

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Oatmeal Health Benefits and Basics

Before we explore the differences, let’s begin by discussing what all types of oatmeal have in common. Most importantly, they’re all nutritious and heart-healthy. Oatmeal is a whole-grain food that’s low in cholesterol and saturated fat, rich in soluble fiber (beta-glucan), and may help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

All oatmeal is made from oats that begin as kernels of grain (groats) that are then processed into different varieties. The specific processing method determines the texture, cooking time, and best uses for each type of oat. Let’s examine each variety in detail.

Types of Oatmeal: Comparison and Cooking Guide

Steel-Cut Oats (Irish Oats)

Steel-cut oats, also called Pinhead oats or Irish oats, are chopped into small pieces rather than rolled. They have a rough texture before cooking and maintain a hearty, chewy consistency after preparation.

• Nutrition Profile: Lowest glycemic index among oat varieties
• Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
• Texture: Chewy and hearty
• Liquid Ratio: 1 cup liquid to 1/4 cup oats
• Best For: Traditional breakfast porridge, hearty breakfast bowls

Old Fashioned Oats (Rolled Oats)

Old Fashioned oats, commonly known as rolled oats, are created by steaming and flattening the groats with large rollers. This process gives them their characteristic flaky appearance.

• Nutrition Profile: Good balance of fiber and protein
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Texture: Moderately chewy
• Liquid Ratio: 1 cup liquid to 1/2 cup oats
• Best For: Breakfast oatmeal, baking (cookies, muffins), granola, overnight oats

Quick Cook Oats

These oats are processed similarly to rolled oats but are rolled thinner and cut into smaller pieces for faster cooking.

• Nutrition Profile: Similar to rolled oats but with slightly faster digestion
• Cooking Time: 1 minute
• Texture: Soft with less texture than rolled oats
• Liquid Ratio: 1 cup liquid to 1/2 cup oats
• Best For: Quick breakfasts, baking recipes that call for a smoother texture

Instant Oats

Instant oats are the most processed variety. They are pre-cooked and dried and often combined with flavors and sweeteners in individual packages.

• Nutrition Profile: Check labels for added sugars and sodium
• Cooking Time: Just add hot liquid
• Texture: Smooth and soft
• Liquid Ratio: Up to 1/2 cup liquid to 1/3 cup oats
• Best For: Office breakfasts, camping, travel

Oat Bran

During processing, the outer layer of the oat (the bran) is removed. When this outer husk is finely milled, it creates highly-concentrated oat bran that cooks quickly and provides maximum fiber.

• Nutrition Profile: Highest fiber content of all oat varieties
• Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
• Texture: Creamy
• Liquid Ratio: 1-3/4 cups liquid to 1/2 cup oat bran
• Best For: High-fiber breakfast, muffins, bread, boosting fiber in smoothies

How to Cook Oatmeal: Methods and Techniques

Whichever type of oats you choose, proper cooking is essential for the best flavor and texture. If morning time is limited, consider make-ahead options like overnight oats or slow-cooker methods.

You can use water (with a pinch of salt), milk, plant-based milk, or a combination for cooking. For simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term “liquid” when discussing cooking methods.

How to Cook Oatmeal on the Stovetop – Great for Steel-cut and Old-fashioned

Stovetop Oatmeal Cooking Guide

Steel-Cut Oatmeal:

1. Bring 1 cup of liquid to a boil
2. Add 1/4 cup of oatmeal
3. Reduce heat to low
4. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes
5. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving

Old Fashioned Oatmeal:

1. Bring 1 cup of liquid to a boil
2. Add 1/2 cup of oats
3. Reduce heat to medium
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes
5. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving

Quick Cook Oatmeal:

1. Bring 1 cup of liquid to a boil
2. Add 1/2 cup of oats
3. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 1 minute
4. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving

Instant Oatmeal:

1. Measure 1/3 cup instant oats into a bowl
2. Add up to 1/2 cup boiling liquid and stir
3. Let sit for 1 minute before enjoying

Oat Bran:

1. Bring 1-3/4 cups of liquid to a boil
2. Add 1/2 cup of oat bran
3. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes
4. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving

Microwave Oatmeal Method

The microwave works best for quick or instant oats:

1. Mix 1 cup of liquid with 1/2 cup of oats in a 2-cup microwave-safe bowl
2. Ensure your bowl is large enough to prevent overflow
3. Microwave on high for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes
4. Stir before serving

How to Store Oats for Maximum Freshness

Oats have a naturally long shelf life due to their low fat content. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot in your pantry for up to twelve months. Always check the “Best if Used By” or “Best By” date on the package to ensure freshness.

Where to Purchase Quality Oats

While most oat varieties are available at grocery stores, specialty types like steel-cut oats and oat bran might be found in health food stores or online. Here are some recommended brands that I regularly purchase:

• Bob’s Red Mill Steel Cut Oats
• Bobs Red Mill Quick Cooking Oats
• Bob’s Red Meal Oat Bran

Make-Ahead Oatmeal Tips and Tricks

Meal prep can save precious morning time. Make a large batch of oatmeal when convenient, then refrigerate for quick breakfasts all week. To reheat, scoop out a portion, add a splash of milk, and warm on the stovetop or in a microwave.

• Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
• How to Make Oatmeal from Scratch
• Overnight Oats

Recipes with Oatmeal

• Coconut Oatmeal Cookies
• Oatmeal Cake
• Oatmeal Raisin Muffins
• Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies

Favorite Breakfast Recipes

• Cheese Blintz
• Donut Muffins
• Eggs in a Basket
• Funfetti Pancakes
• McDonald’s Sausage Egg McMuffin
• Starbucks Spinach Feta Wrap

Check out more of my beginner cooking recipes and easy breakfast recipes here on CopyKat!