Simple yet satiating oatmeal deserves to be put on a breakfast pedestal. The high-fiber, quick treat gets many of us through a morning of anxiety, myself included — it’s my go-to meal before any jam-packed day, including when I’m in New York to appear on the Today show.
Most recently, before my Pride-themed segment, I stayed at the W Times Square, which offered an abundance of oatmeal options. Knowing that I was among the world’s epicenter of business professionals on work trips, I came to understand that this abundance of oats was entirely intended for a person on the go. So I reached out to the property to get their take on the timeless, instant nosh before conducting my own taste test.
Sally Gonzalez, director of outlets for the hospitality brand, explained via email that the difference between instant and regular oatmeal is simply that the former are “oats that have been sliced thinner than regular oats, which is why it cooks instantly.”
“That is why they cook well in the microwave and don’t take long,” she said.
Of course, a good instant oatmeal, according to Gonzalez is one that is not overly processed, this way you can still get the intended health benefits such as bone–strengthening manganese, immune-boosting copper and the aforementioned digestion-friendly fiber. But for the purpose of this all-time greatest list, I focused solely on taste.
Here are the best of the best so you can start your day feeling full and energized.
Best overall: McCann’s Instant Irish Oatmeal
McCann’s doesn’t need to rely on the luck of the Irish to emerge as a clear winner. Instead, its soft, palatable texture makes it oh-so-deserving of a gold star and a now permanent spot in my pantry. What I love most is that it serves as a light and almost pillowy foundation for the berries, nuts and seeds I add to zhuzh things up a bit, all without overpowering their complementary flavors. And if you have the time and patience, be sure to invest in the company’s steel cut alternative that tastes downright decadent when prepared on the stove with milk or, dare I suggest, heavy cream.
Best flavor: Quaker Instant Oatmeal Maple and Brown Sugar
This may not be the healthiest of the bunch, but it’s certainly one of the most delicious. In fact, Quaker’s classic maple and brown sugar iteration is certifiably iconic and, arguably, the most recognized brand when it comes to this robust genre. But, as with most things in life, its conjuring of nostalgia (I lived on this stuff as a kid!) gives it a slight edge, making it the perfect mood enhancer on any gray, chilly morning when the idea of going into an office sounds downright sad.
Best protein: Kodiak Oatmeal Power Cup, Chocolate Chip
High protein doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice great taste. Kodiak found a way to incorporate innovative flavors such as strawberries and cream, banana nut and chocolate chip into its line of beloved instant oatmeals. The latter was an instant hit with tiny sweet morsels that melted into the bowl to create an almost cookie dough-like consistency. And, frankly, I’ll take any excuse to start my day with dessert, thank you very much.
Best steel cut: Better Oats Steel Cut Instant Oatmeal with Flax Seeds
Despite a thicker cut, these oats actually cooked quickly, which means they’re obviously the byproduct of some type of culinary sorcery (kidding, I hope). They also came with heart-healthy flax seeds for a touch of welcomed nuttiness that you don’t find with most popular brands. This is a wonderful option for the breakfast connoisseur who prefers their morning carbs come across as more elevated and gourmet.
Best organic: Nature’s Path Organic Original Instant Oatmeal
Those who may feel like their organic options are limited will be delighted to microwave a packet of Nature’s Path, the undeniable leader in this health-minded product category. These would also make a wonderful addition to any baked, oat-based recipe — whether it’s cookies, breads or even pancakes — so keep them on standby for any sudden craving. That said, if the original recipe calls for non-instant oats, you’ll want to experiment with cooking times to get your homemade treats just right.
Best gluten-free: Qi’a Superfood Gluten-Free Oatmeal, Creamy Coconut
While oats are naturally gluten-free, there is a significant number of people with celiac disease who are sensitive to mainstream varieties. To ensure that allergies and reactions are kept at bay, opt for Qi’a, which also incorporates superfoods such as buckwheat, chia, hemp and coconut for added health benefits. This was a delightfully complex and earthy take on what I was used to consuming, but I welcome the departure and any excuse to feel like I am making more mindful eating choices.
