Instant Oatmeal Recipe

A jar of instant oatmeal mix sitting next to a bowl of prepared oatmeal.

5 from 1 vote

This instant oatmeal recipe is a quick, nourishing breakfast made with simple pantry staples. Prep a big batch of this homemade oatmeal mix and enjoy a warm, customizable bowl in just minutes. Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, and stocking your from scratch pantry.

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Homemade Oatmeal Mix, Instant Oatmeal Mix, Instant Oatmeal Recipe, Oatmeal, Oatmeal Mix

Servings: servings

Calories: 336kcal

Author: Melissa Norris

Cost: Varies

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Measuring Utensils
Storage Container
funnel I use my canning funnel to transfer ingredients to my jar, avoiding mess.
Saucepan Glass canning jars are just my personal preference.

Ingredients

6 cups oats quick cooking
2 cups add-ins see list in notes
1 cup brown sugar or to taste
2 teaspoons salt I love Redmond Real Salt. Use code “Pioneering” for 15% off.
2 teaspoons cinnamon optional

Instructions

Assemble the Jars

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
Portion into one cup individual servings and pour into half-pint Mason jars or small Ziplock bags. Pro-Tip: You can also store the prepared oats in one large container and spoon out a cup of oats or the amount you need when cooking.

Cooking the Oatmeal

Dump one portion of instant oatmeal mix into a small pot and cover with 1½ cups of water. Increase the water ratio in equal amounts (1 cup of oats to 1½ cups water) if cooking multiple servings.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The oatmeal is cooked and ready to eat when the water is absorbed.
Serve warm as is or with butter and a little fresh cream.

Notes

Recipe Tips:

I use my canning funnel to quickly add all ingredients to each jar, avoiding a mess.
You can store your mixes in Ziplock bags or any other container they'll fit in. Glass canning jars are just my personal preference.
Stir while cooking to prevent sticking
Add a splash of milk at the end for extra creaminess
Add chia seeds or ground flax for extra fiber
Use gluten-free certified oats if needed
Double or triple the batch for easy meal prep

Serving Suggestions:

Top with butter and fresh cream
Add fresh or dried berries (learn how to dehydrate fruit at home).
Try other fruits, such as peaches, apples or toasted coconut.
Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans
Add chia seeds or ground flax for extra fiber
Swirl in almond butter or peanut butter. (I love this homemade peanut butter recipe.)
For the chocolate lover, top with chocolate chips.

Storage Instructions:

Store dry instant oatmeal mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 6 months. Portioning into individual jars makes busy mornings effortless. You can also store the mix in one large container and scoop out servings as needed.

***Nutrition facts do not include mix-ins.***

Nutrition