How to Make Oatmeal in a Rice Cooker (Rolled and Steel-Cut)

Quick answer: To make oatmeal in a rice cooker, use 1 cup of rolled oats to 2 cups of water or milk, or 1 cup of steel-cut oats to 3 cups of liquid. Add a pinch of salt, cook on the porridge or regular setting, and stir before serving. Keep the pot no more than half full, because oats foam and expand.

Last updated: November 1, 2026

Oatmeal ratios

Times vary by cooker. Use the porridge setting if yours has one.

Steps

1. Add the oats, liquid and a pinch of salt to the inner pot.
2. Close the lid and select Porridge, or press Cook.
3. Stir when it finishes, and add more liquid if it is too thick.
4. Top with fruit, nuts, cinnamon or honey.

Tips

• Fill the pot no more than half to avoid boil-over.
• Use milk for a creamier result, but watch for sticking.
• Use the delay timer if your cooker has one to have oatmeal ready in the morning. Check your manual before leaving dairy sitting.
• Some multi-grain cookers have an oats preset, such as the NutriBullet EveryGrain Cooker.

Frequently asked questions

Can you cook oatmeal in a rice cooker?

Yes. Rolled and steel-cut oats both work.

Why does oatmeal boil over?

Oats foam as they cook. Keep the pot half full or less.

Can I make overnight oatmeal?

Use the delay timer only if your manual allows it, and avoid leaving milk at room temperature for long periods.

Related guides

• What else can you cook in a rice cooker?
• How to cook quinoa in a rice cooker

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