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Crockpot Butternut Squash Oatmeal

Crockpot Butternut Squash Oatmeal

Crockpot Butternut Squash Oatmeal combines steel-cut oats with sweet butternut squash, warming spices, and a touch of maple syrup. This overnight slow cooker method creates a creamy, hearty breakfast with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
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Total Time 8 hours
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup steel-cut oats not quick oats or rolled oats
  • 2 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash about half a medium squash
  • 4 cups liquid can use water, milk, or a combination
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup plus more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional toppings: chopped pecans or walnuts additional maple syrup, a splash of milk or cream, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds

Instructions
 

  • Prepare your slow cooker by lightly coating the inside with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Peel and cube the butternut squash into approximately 1/2-inch pieces. Smaller pieces will cook more thoroughly and blend better with the oatmeal.
  • Add all ingredients to the slow cooker – oats, cubed butternut squash, liquid of choice, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to combine.
  • Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 7-8 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the squash to break down and the oats to become perfectly tender.
  • Give everything a good stir when you wake up. The squash should be very soft and will partially dissolve into the oatmeal, creating a creamy consistency.
  • Serve warm with your favorite toppings. A drizzle of additional maple syrup, a splash of milk, and some chopped nuts add wonderful texture and flavor.

Notes

  • This oatmeal will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat portions with a splash of milk.
  • For a dairy-free version, use almond milk, oat milk, or water as your liquid.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash or blend some of the cooked butternut squash before stirring it back into the oatmeal.
  • To save time, look for pre-cut butternut squash in the produce section of your grocery store.
  • For extra protein, stir in a tablespoon of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder after cooking.