Can You Make Overnight Oats With Instant Oatmeal?

If you have the question, can you make overnight oats with instant oatmeal, let me answer this question for you and so many more!

Mornings are a busy time for our family. If they are for your family too, this is the post for you. Let me show you how to simplify your morning in a really easy way. 

Sure, there are plenty of simple overnight oats recipes out there, but this one just might be the easiest!! 

What are overnight oats?

Overnight oats involve soaking whole grains, typically oats, in milk overnight. This simple process results in a creamy texture and offers benefits, making it an effortless and filling breakfast option that's ready to enjoy the next day.

There are many different ways to make overnight oats-in fact, here is a recipe I created a few years ago using protein powder in the oats for higher-protein oatmeal. 

While you can use different types of oats- old-fashioned oats, steel-cut oats, or even quick oats, I want to show you how to make this with instant oat packers. These little packets help to simplify the process even more!

Ingredients

• Instant oatmeal packets (e.g., Kodiak Oatmeal packets): There are so many types of oatmeal packets out there. Choose your favorite and use it for the recipe. I went with a high-protein from my local Winco for mine.
• Almond milk: Provides liquid for soaking and adds creaminess to the oats. I use this often but know you can use any type of milk you want.
• Greek Yogurt- I love adding a little Greek yogurt for extra protein and a creamy texture.
• Chia seeds: Enhance texture and offer added nutrients to the mix.
• Toppings of choice: Personalize your oats with your favorite flavors and textures.

How to make

To create overnight oats using instant oatmeal packets, start by grabbing a mason jar. Open the oatmeal packets, and pour them into the jar.

Next, add almond milk to the oats – this will provide the liquid needed for soaking and create a creamy consistency.

Sprinkle in chia seeds, which will add a firmer, creamy texture and extra nutrients to your oats.

Secure the lid tightly on the mason jar, then give it a good shake to ensure all the ingredients are mixed well. Once everything is combined, place the jar in the refrigerator and let it sit overnight.

By the next morning, the oats will have absorbed the liquid, and you'll have a delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast.

The jars or bowls of oatmeal can either be served cold or hot- whichever you prefer. If you want it cold and quick, eat it just like it is. If you want to warm it up, throw it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Either way, you will not be disappointed with the chewy texture and delicious flavor!

Variations and additions to your instant overnight oatmeal

To boost protein in instant oatmeal overnight oats, consider these variations. Nut butter like peanut butter or almond butter adds flavor and plant-based protein.

Blending in Greek yogurt introduces texture and protein. Experimenting with these tweaks turns your instant oat packet into a protein-packed morning fuel. I love adding plain Greek yogurt or even mango Greek yogurt to my overnight oats.

Different milk choices for making overnight oats

Of course, you can use any type of milk you like- plant-based milk or dairy. Choosing your favorite milk might be a tough decision, let me share some I like!

• Dairy milk- you can go with anything from fat-free to whole milk. I have tried them all and like them all!
• Soy milk: Adds protein richness to your creamy oats mix.
• Oat milk: Nutty and smooth choice for a delightful texture.
• Coconut milk: Brings tropical flavor to your creamy overnight oats.
• Cashew milk: Rich and creamy option for delightful overnight oats.

Topping options

Personalize your overnight oats with your favorite toppings of choice. If you are looking for ideas, let me share a few I like. 

Chocolate chips or chocolate chunks. If you are a chocolate lover like me, this is a no-brainer. I like to add these in right before I eat the oatmeal, not the night before. 

Brown sugar or coconut sugar adds a depth of flavor if you aren't using a sweetened oatmeal packet. Be sure to add it the night before when you mix everything, then the sugar will have a chance to dissolve. If you want a different sweetener, you can also use pure maple syrup. 

Fresh fruit and fresh berries are another toppings I love. I do not add them the night before, but just before serving. Fresh raspberries are a personal favorite!

Seeds and nuts are another option. Flax seeds, sunflower seeds, and sliced almonds are my favorite combination. Of course, the sky is the limit. 

A dash of cinnamon or even vanilla extract also adds another delicious dimension to bland overnight oats. This can be added the night before or right before serving. 

Dried fruits can also be added either at night or the morning of. I personally like them added right before, but my husband likes them to be added the night before. 

Instant oats versus quick-cooking oats

• Quick-cooking oats: Require slightly longer cooking than instant oatmeal packets.
• Instant oatmeal packets: Designed for quick preparation, especially on busy mornings.
• Quick-cooking oats: Need to be cooked with water or milk, resulting in hot oatmeal.
• Instant oatmeal packets: Designed for quick prep by adding hot water directly.
• Quick-cooking oats: Versatile, can be used in various recipes beyond oatmeal.
• Instant oatmeal packets: Pre-portioned and flavored for immediate convenience.

Other oatmeal recipes

Baked oatmeal

I have a lot of oatmeal recipes on my blog. If you are interested in baked oatmeal, let me share a few of these with you. While these are not as quick or easy to prepare as overnight instant oatmeal, it is still pretty simple to do! Heat or serve cold, these recipes are delicious either way! My apple cinnamon oatmeal is another delicious oatmeal that can easily be made ahead.

Energy balls

Another way I like to use oats is in making energy balls. These are so simple to make, use no refined sugar, and are gluten-free. They are a great option for breakfast and snacks. 

Crumbles

Crumbles and crisps are another great way to make use of oats. To me, they are the perfect dessert! While they use old-fashioned oats instead of instant oatmeal packets, they are still pretty easy to make and so delicious. Click on the photos below for recipes and links. 

In short, whether you are a morning person or not, this overnight oatmeal recipe from instant oatmeal is the recipe for you. Simplifying your breakfast routine is sure to free up time and brain space throughout your day! 

Be sure to leave me comments and let me know what you think about this super simple recipe and breakfast!

• Breakfast
• Oats