Learn how to make oatmeal in the microwave in under 5 minutes. Teach your kids this method and they can make a hot bowl of oatmeal all on their own!
Microwave oatmeal is the first hot breakfast I teach my kids to make all by themselves. It’s quick and easy and you can easily turn it into a balanced breakfast.
The oats provide whole grains. If you make it with milk that helps add some protein. And we always mix in a spoonful of peanut butter for some healthy fats and top with fruit!
How To Make Oatmeal in the Microwave
We most commonly make our oatmeal right when we’re ready to eat it, but if you’re looking for a prep-ahead alternative, try these Freezer Oatmeal Cups. You can also try adding egg for even more protein- How To Cook Oatmeal with An Egg.
You can use rolled oats to make your oatmeal but my kids prefer quick oats – basically rolled oats that have been chopped up. This makes the oats smaller and gives the oatmeal a better texture.
For the liquid, you can use either milk or water. I prefer milk to add protein and other nutrients but water works just fine.
So what do you need to make our microwave oatmeal?
- Quick oats
- Milk
- Peanut butter
- Fruit (we add frozen blueberries after cooking to help cool the oatmeal down but you can also add chopped fruit in the beginning and have it cook a little bit along with the oatmeal.
- Additional toppings – you can add fun toppings like a few sprinkles or chocolate chips, or sprinkle in some chia, hemp or ground flax.
How To Make Microwave Oatmeal Step By Step
Watch my six-year-old make microwave oatmeal. This is one of her go-to breakfasts:
To make this even easier you can pre-portion the oats and any seeds or mixins into baggies so you can just dump in a bowl when you’re ready.
PrintHow To Make Oatmeal In The Microwave
Learn how to make oatmeal in the microwave in under 5 minutes. Teach your kids this method and they can make a hot bowl of oatmeal all on their own!
- Yield: serves 1
Ingredients
1/2 cup quick oats
1/4– 1/3 cup milk or water *
2–3 tsp peanut butter
1/4 cup frozen blueberries (or other fruit)
additional toppings optional – chocolate chips, sprinkles, chia/flax/hemp seeds
Instructions
- Put oats and milk in a bowl along with fruit (if desired)
- Microwave 1 minute.
- Stir in peanut butter and frozen berries.
- Add toppings and serve.
Notes
*you’ll have to play around with how much liquid you prefer. Some like the oatmeal a bit on the drier side while others prefer it a little more liquidy and creamy. You can start with 1/4 cup liquid and then always add a splash more after cooking.
FAQs for How To Make Oatmeal in the Microwave
Here are some common questions about making oatmeal:
How To Make Oatmeal on the Stove top
If you’d prefer to make oatmeal on the stove, here are some recipes:
Or if you prefer cold breakfasts in the morning, try overnight oats- Easy Basic Overnight Oats.
Is oatmeal healthy?
Yes! Oats contain fiber and protein and when paired with protein and healthy fats they can easily be part of a healthy, balanced breakfast. Oats are whole grains and full of vitamins and minerals. Oats are naturally gluten-free but can often be contaminated during growing or processing so if you need gluten-free oats be sure to look for brands that are certified gluten-free.
If you’re buying pre-packaged oatmeal at the store, beware of added sugar. Many oatmeal packets, while convenient, are loaded with added sugar that make them better suited for dessert than breakfast.
How Can I Make Oatmeal Healthier?
Here are some ideas for healthy oatmeal mix-ins:
- nut butter
- chopped nuts or seeds
- egg whites
- Greek yogurt
- a scoop of protein powder
For a savory spin, try topping with sauteed veggies, a fried egg, cheese or pumpkin. Or try adding cinnamon or vanilla for a bit of extra flavor.
Tell us how you make your oatmeal!
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