On a cool morning, oatmeal is one breakfast idea that is filling and the perfect comfort food.  Here is an idea to make a big batch of oatmeal and eat for the week.  I have two different flavor options: pumpkin spice or apple pie.  

Oat-TRITIOUS! 

Oats are one of the most nutritious grains.  They rank high in vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.  There have been many studies that look at the health benefits of oats, such as lowering blood sugar, reducing risk of heart disease, and may even promote weight loss. 

Let’s Talk Heart Health! 

As heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in America, it may be attributed to elevated cholesterol levels. 

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease is adding more soluble fiber in the diet.  There are two types of fiber: insoluble (sweeps the intestines) and soluble (sponge).  Oats are high in soluble fiber and act like a sponge to “soak” up the “lousy” or LDL cholesterol. 

Crock-Pot Oats to the Rescue!

Having oats ready to go in the morning, is a great short cut to save time and start your day off right.  This makes a large batch and you can preheat a bowl of oats and add a variety of toppings each morning.

Great toppings to add include: sliced almonds, walnuts, fresh chopped apples, maple syrup,  honey, and many more!

This recipe is flexible to use any type of oats you may like: steel cut, rolled, or old-fashioned oats. 

Pumpkin Spice Crock-Pot Oatmeal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups oats (rolled, old-fashioned, or steel-cut)
  • 1 can pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp. pumpkin pie seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Place ingredients in a crock-pot and cook on WARM for 2 to 3 hours. Add your favorite sweetener and toppings each day when oatmeal is heated.

Apple Pie Crock-Pot Oatmeal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups oats (rolled, old-fashioned, or steel-cut)
  • 2 cups unsweetened apple sauce
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp. apple pie seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Place ingredients in a crock-pot and cook on WARM for 2 to 3 hours. Add your favorite sweetener and toppings each day when oatmeal is heated.