Alton Brown Steel Cut Oats Recipe

This Alton Brown Steel Cut Oats Recipe is a creamy and hearty breakfast, which uses steel-cut oats and buttermilk. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 45 minutes.

Alton Brown Steel Cut Oats Recipe Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 3 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon low-fat buttermilk, divided
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

How To Make Alton Brown Steel Cut Oats Recipe

1. Toast the oats: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the oats and stir for 2 minutes to lightly toast.
2. Simmer the oats: Add boiling water to the pan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes without stirring.
3. Add dairy: Stir in the milk and 1/2 cup of buttermilk. Gently combine and continue to cook for another 10 minutes.
4. Finish and serve: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of buttermilk, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Recipe Tips

• Why toast steel-cut oats first?
  Toasting deepens the flavor and adds a subtle nuttiness to the oats.
• Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
  You can, but the buttermilk adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that makes this dish unique.
• How to avoid mushy oatmeal:
  Don’t stir during the first simmer—this helps keep the oats from breaking down too much.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can refrigerate and reheat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture.
• What’s the difference between steel-cut and rolled oats?
  Steel-cut oats are less processed and have a chewier texture, perfect for this kind of hearty breakfast.

What To Serve With Steel Cut Oats

Steel cut oats are filling on their own, but they pair well with a few extra touches:

• Fresh berries or sliced bananas
• Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts
• A drizzle of maple syrup or honey
• Greek yogurt
• A side of scrambled eggs for extra protein

How To Store Steel Cut Oats

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water.

Freeze:
Portion into containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Steel Cut Oats Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 230
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cook steel-cut oats instead?
This recipe is designed for traditional steel-cut oats—quick-cook versions may get too soft.

Is buttermilk necessary in oatmeal?
It adds creaminess and a slight tang, but you can replace it with milk or a dairy-free alternative.

How do I keep oatmeal from sticking to the pan?
Keep the heat low and don’t stir until the final stage; using a nonstick pan also helps.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot and stir carefully when adding the milk and buttermilk.

Try More Recipes:

• Alton Brown Sourdough Starter Recipe
• Alton Brown Roast Chicken Recipe
• Alton Brown Potato Salad Recipe