Making oatmeal in the microwave is a quick and easy breakfast, but it can be messy when the oatmeal boils over and makes a sticky mess in your microwave. The good news is that with a few simple tips and tricks, you can prevent oatmeal from boiling over in the microwave every time.
Use a Large Bowl
One of the easiest ways to keep oatmeal from boiling over is to use a bowl that is large enough. When cooking oatmeal in the microwave, the oats will expand and double in size as they cook. If you use a bowl that is too small, the oats will quickly reach the top and boil over the sides.
For a standard 1/2 cup dry serving of oats, use a bowl with at least a 2-3 cup capacity. This leaves plenty of room for the oats to expand up rather than out. While a larger bowl may seem excessive, it’s better to have too much room than not enough.
Use Less Water
Another common reason oatmeal boils over is because too much water is added. The standard water to oats ratio is 2:1, which is usually too much for cooking in the microwave.
Cut back to around a 1 1/2:1 water ratio instead. This prevents excess water from causing the oatmeal to bubble up and spill over. You can always stir in a splash more water or milk after cooking if the oatmeal is too thick.
Cook Oatmeal for a Shorter Time
It’s easy to overcook oatmeal in the microwave, which allows it to boil over. Cook oatmeal for a shorter amount of time than directed on the package.
Start with just 1-2 minutes on high heat. After cooking, stir the oats, add any additional water or milk needed, and continue cooking in 30 second intervals until the oatmeal reaches the desired consistency.
This method gives you more control and prevents overcooking the oatmeal into a foamy, bubbling mess.
Stir Before Cooking
Be sure to stir the oats and liquid together before placing the bowl in the microwave. This helps prevent the oats from clumping together which can restrict swelling and lead to boiling over.
Use Rolled Oats
Instant oats and steel cut oats have a tendency to boil over more than rolled oats. The cut edges of rolled oats absorb liquid and expand better as they cook.
Switch to traditional rolled oats or “old fashioned” oats for the best results when microwaving.
Add Oats Last
For an extra precaution against boiling over, add the liquid to the bowl first, then stir in the dry oats. This ensures the oats don’t get clumped in the bottom of the bowl when you add the liquid.
Use a Microwave Cover
A microwave cover is a dome-shaped lid that sits on top of the bowl while cooking. It leaves space for steam to escape but also contains splatters.
If your oatmeal threatens to bubble over even with these tricks, a microwave cover is a fool-proof way to prevent a mess.
Cook Oatmeal in a Microwave-Safe Mug
For a single serving, you can cook oatmeal in a large microwave-safe coffee mug. Use a little less water than usual and keep an eye on it as it cooks. The narrow opening of the mug makes it less likely to boil over.
Use the Defrost Setting
Try using the defrost or 50% power setting on your microwave instead of full power. This gentler heat gives the oats more time to absorb the liquid and expand gradually.
Add Milk After Cooking
You can prevent boiling over by cooking the oats in water first, then stirring in milk after. The milk cools the oatmeal down slightly and makes it less likely to bubble up when reheated.
Let it Rest
When the oatmeal is finished cooking, let it rest in the microwave for 1-2 minutes before taking it out. This allows the bubbles to settle so the oatmeal won’t boil over as soon as you open the door.
Use a Splatter Guard
A splatter guard or splatter screen fits over your bowl in the microwave. It has tiny holes that allow steam to escape but keep splashes and spills contained.
Cook it on the Stove
If your oatmeal keeps boiling over no matter what, the stove provides more control. Cook oatmeal in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired consistency.
Add a Dash of Salt
Adding a pinch of salt to the oatmeal can raise its boiling point slightly so it’s less likely to bubble over. Just a sprinkle will do the trick.
Clean Up Spills Quickly
If your oatmeal does happen to boil over, clean your microwave right away. Oatmeal can turn into cement and become harder to remove the longer it sits.
Wipe the spill with a damp cloth and wash with soapy water. For stubborn oatmeal stains, heat a bowl of water in the microwave until steaming. Then keep the door closed for several minutes so the steam can loosen the oatmeal for easier cleaning.
Don’t Fill Bowl to the Brim
Never fill the bowl all the way to the top. Leave at least 1 inch of headspace for the oats to expand upward as they cook.
Tips for Making Creamy Microwave Oatmeal
With the right ratio of liquid to oats, microwave oatmeal can turn out just as creamy as oatmeal cooked on the stove.
For creamier texture:
- Use more milk than water. Aim for a 1:1 ratio of milk to oats.
- Stir in a spoonful of yogurt after cooking for added creaminess.
- Let the finished oatmeal sit for 2-3 minutes before eating. The oats will continue to absorb liquid and become creamier.
- For ultra-creamy oatmeal, blend the finished oats briefly with an immersion blender.
- Cook oats with half milk and half cream for an extra rich consistency.
How to Make Oatmeal in the Microwave
Follow this basic microwave oatmeal recipe for perfect results every time:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Toppings like fruit, nuts, brown sugar, etc. (optional)
Instructions:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the oats, milk, and salt.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute. Remove and stir.
- Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until oatmeal is creamy and desired consistency is reached.
- Let sit for 2 minutes then stir in toppings as desired.
Adjust cook times and liquid amounts as needed to prevent boiling over. With a bit of trial and error, you’ll find the perfect ratio for your microwave and preferences.
Conclusion
With a few simple tricks, you can easily whip up perfect oatmeal in the microwave without the mess and hassle of boil overs. Using a large bowl, reducing the water, and cooking oatmeal in short intervals prevents it from bubbling up and making a sticky mess. Follow these tips and you’ll have tasty hot oatmeal in minutes that’s perfectly contained in your bowl, not all over your microwave.