Steel-cut oats are made by cutting whole oat groats into two or three pieces with steel blades rather than steaming and rolling them into flakes. Because they remain minimally processed, steel-cut oats retain the bran, germ, and endosperm, preserving nearly all of the grain's naturally occurring fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial phytochemicals. Their hearty, chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor make them a favorite for warm breakfast porridges and meal prep.

Like other whole oat products, steel-cut oats are an excellent source of beta-glucans, avenanthramides, plant protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Their intact structure creates a pleasantly chewy texture and makes them one of the slowest-cooking oat varieties, though they can be easily prepared on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an electric pressure cooker.