Crockpot Steel Cut Oatmeal with Butternut Squash and Warm Spices Recipe
Introduction
This Crockpot Steel Cut Oatmeal with Butternut Squash is a warm, comforting breakfast that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. The slow-cooked oats blend beautifully with the natural sweetness and creaminess of butternut squash, enhanced by cozy spices and a touch of maple syrup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Butternut Squash
- 1 cup Steel-Cut Oats
- 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 3 cups Water
- Pecans, to taste
- Brown Sugar, to taste
- Coconut Milk, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the butternut squash, steel-cut oats, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and water to a slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 2: Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 5 to 7 hours, until the oats are soft and the butternut squash is fork-tender.
- Step 3: Use a potato masher or large spatula to roughly mash the butternut squash, then stir to evenly incorporate it into the oatmeal.
- Step 4: Serve the oatmeal warm, topped with pecans, brown sugar, and coconut milk as desired. Enjoy your wholesome breakfast!
Tips & Variations
- For a creamier texture, substitute some or all of the water with coconut milk before cooking.
- Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries in the last hour of cooking for extra sweetness and texture.
- Use fresh grated nutmeg instead of ground for a more vibrant spice flavor.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the oatmeal if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this oatmeal without a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook steel-cut oats and butternut squash on the stovetop, but you’ll need to monitor and stir regularly to prevent sticking. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Frozen butternut squash works well. Just add it directly to the slow cooker with the other ingredients—no need to thaw beforehand.
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Crockpot Steel Cut Oatmeal with Butternut Squash and Warm Spices Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Crockpot Steel Cut Oatmeal with Butternut Squash is a wholesome and hearty breakfast option that blends creamy steel-cut oats with naturally sweet, tender butternut squash. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and subtly sweetened with maple syrup and vanilla, it offers a cozy, flavorful start to your day. The slow cooker method makes preparation effortless, allowing the ingredients to simmer slowly and develop rich flavors overnight or while you go about your morning routine. Top with pecans, brown sugar, and coconut milk for extra texture and indulgence.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Butternut Squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup Steel-Cut Oats
- 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 3 cups Water
Optional Toppings
- Pecans, to taste
- Brown Sugar, to taste
- Coconut Milk, to taste
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: Place the diced butternut squash, steel-cut oats, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and water into the slow cooker. Stir all ingredients together to combine evenly.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or choose the high setting and cook for 5 to 7 hours. The oats should be soft and the butternut squash fork-tender by the end of cooking.
- Mash the Squash: Use a potato masher or a large spatula to roughly mash the cooked butternut squash within the oatmeal. Stir well to evenly incorporate the mashed squash throughout the oatmeal, creating a creamy texture.
- Serve: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls and serve warm. Top with pecans, brown sugar, and coconut milk according to your preference. Enjoy your cozy, nutritious breakfast!
Notes
- You can prepare this oatmeal the night before and have it ready to enjoy fresh in the morning.
- If the oatmeal is too thick after cooking, stir in a little extra water or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for variety.
- Maple syrup can be adjusted for sweetness or replaced with honey if preferred.
- Make sure to stir the ingredients well before cooking to prevent sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 5 to 7 hours (high)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker oatmeal, steel cut oats, butternut squash breakfast, healthy oatmeal recipe, cozy fall breakfast, vegetarian oatmeal
