Rolled oats substitutes
Rolled oats substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Quick oats
Same amount as the rolled oats
Pre-cooked and rolled oats with similar texture.
The best substitutes for rolled oats are quick oats, steel-cut oats, or other grains like quinoa, barley, or rice, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of rolled oats | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Quick oatsbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Steel-cut oatsbreakfast | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Quinoabreakfast | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Barleybreakfast | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Ricebreakfast | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Bulgurbreakfast | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Quick oats
similar taste and texture
Pre-cooked and rolled oats with similar texture.
- Best for
- baking, breakfast, thickening, granola
Faster cooking, similar texture.
Steel-cut oats
similar taste, different texture
Whole oat groats with chewy texture.
- Best for
- breakfast, pilafs, stir-fries
Longer cooking time, chewier texture.
Quinoa
different taste, similar texture
Protein-rich grain with similar texture.
- Best for
- breakfast, pilafs, salads, stir-fries
Higher protein content, nutty flavor.
Barley
different taste and texture
Chewy grain with nutty flavor.
- Best for
- breakfast, pilafs, soups, stir-fries
Longer cooking time, chewier texture.
Rice
different taste, similar texture
Staple grain with similar texture.
- Best for
- breakfast, pilafs, stir-fries, side dishes
Different flavor, similar texture.
Bulgur
different taste, similar texture
Cracked wheat with quick cooking time.
- Best for
- breakfast, pilafs, salads, stir-fries
Faster cooking, nutty flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats are a good substitute for rolled oats. They have similar texture and flavor but cook faster.
What's the difference between rolled oats and steel-cut oats?
Rolled oats are flattened and pre-cooked, while steel-cut oats are whole oat groats that are cut into pieces. Steel-cut oats have a chewier texture and take longer to cook.
Can I use quinoa instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quinoa can work as a substitute, especially in breakfast dishes and pilafs. It has similar texture but different flavor and is higher in protein.
Why are rolled oats so popular in breakfast dishes?
Rolled oats are popular in breakfast because they're nutritious, filling, and versatile. They can be used in oatmeal, granola, and baked goods, and they provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
Tips for substituting rolled oats
6 tips- Rolled oats add texture and nutrition to dishes
- Rolled oats can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Rolled oats pair well with fruits, nuts, and spices
- Rolled oats can be used to make granola, cookies, and bars
- Rolled oats can be used as a thickener in soups and stews
- Store rolled oats in an airtight container to prevent staleness