Techniques
Meal Prep
Skill
Beginner
2 min

How to make overnight oats by mixing and chilling overnight

Combine oats with milk and a thick dairy base, mix, then refrigerate overnight to set for a ready-to-eat breakfast.

Mix oats with milk and a thick ingredient like Greek yogurt (and optional flavorings), then cover and refrigerate overnight. By morning the oats hydrate and thicken into a spoonable texture.

The short version

  • Mix well before chilling so the oats hydrate evenly.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight to set.

What you need

  • container with lidJar or tub for mixing and chilling
  • spoonFor mixing

How to do it

  1. 1

    Add oats, milk, and a thick dairy base (e.g., Greek yogurt) to a container.

    Include sweetener/flavorings if desired before chilling.

    Watch this step
  2. 2

    Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

    Scrape the sides/bottom so no dry oats remain.

    Watch this step
  3. 3

    Cover with a lid and refrigerate overnight to set.

    Chill until the oats are fully hydrated and thickened.

    Watch this step

What goes wrong

Not mixing enough, leaving dry pockets of oats

Stir until the mixture is uniform before refrigerating.

Leaving it uncovered in the fridge

Use a lid to prevent drying out and fridge odors.

Why it works

Time in the fridge lets the oats absorb liquid slowly, creating a thick, creamy consistency without cooking.

Put it to use

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