The Ultimate Guide to Making Oatmeal with Milk in the Microwave

Published Oct 12, 2023

Updated Nov 12, 2023

Do you want to enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal in just minutes? Making oatmeal with milk in the microwave is quick, easy, and perfect for a busy morning. Follow this comprehensive guide and tips for perfect results every time. Whether you're a seasoned microwave oatmeal enthusiast or just starting your oatmeal journey, you'll find this guide useful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup rolled oats 2 cups milk (you can use any type: dairy, almond, soy, etc.) A pinch of salt (optional) Dessert toppings like honey, fresh or frozen fruits, nuts, or cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1 cup of rolled oats, 2 cups of milk, and a pinch of salt if desired. Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for about 2 to 3 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on your microwave's wattage, so keep an eye on it to prevent overflow. Stir: Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot) and stir the oatmeal. If it's too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Microwave Again: Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 1 to 2 minutes if needed, stirring halfway through. Add Toppings: Once cooked, let the oatmeal sit for a minute. Then, add your favorite toppings like honey, fresh or frozen fruits, nuts, or spices. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your creamy oatmeal!

Tips for Perfect Microwave Oatmeal

For Instant Oats: If you're using instant oats, reduce the cooking time to 1 to 2 minutes. For a Creamier Texture: You can substitute some of the milk with water or use more milk than specified. Be Cautious: Be cautious with the microwave as milk can bubble and overflow easily.

Recipe Variations

Always a Microwave Oatmeal Enthusiast

Sarah has been an always milker when it comes to microwave oatmeal for probably over 20 years now. She uses good instant oatmeal and starts with the amount recommended on the packaging, adjusting from there. She eyeballs it and can tell by "feeling" how much is needed. She also adds dark maple syrup and a pinch of salt. After cooking, she adds chocolate chips and, if she's cooked bacon earlier, crumbles up a rasher or two and mixes that in after cooking.

Production-Style Breakfasts

If you don’t mind going into a bit of production for breakfast but you can do this in batches in advance, I highly recommend Alton Brown’s Overnight Coconut Oats recipe. This recipe lets you make multiple batches, and before bed, you add the milk (yes, plural) and put it in the fridge. In the morning, the oats are well-hydrated and ready for the microwave, or you can just eat them right out of the jar! They are very good and pretty good for you.

Conclusion

Making oatmeal with milk in the microwave is a convenient and delicious way to start your day. With these simple steps and tips, you'll be enjoying a warm bowl of creamy oatmeal in no time. Experiment with different toppings and flavors to find your favorite! Whether you're a seasoned microwave oatmeal enthusiast or just starting, these recipes will help you create a perfect batch every time.

Note: Always be careful when handling hot food and use oven mitts if necessary to avoid burns.