The main differences between rolled oats and steel-cut oats are: Cut - Rolled oats are flat oat flakes made by steaming and rolling whole oat groats. Steel-cut oats are chopped into just 2-3 pieces from the whole groats. Texture - Rolled oats are soft and fluffy when cooked. Steel-cut oats retain more chewiness and shape when cooked. Cooking time - Steel-cut oats generally take almost double the time to cook compared to rolled oats. Consistency - Rolled oats result in a creamier, smooth oatmeal. Steel-cut oats have a heartier, chunkier consistency. Processing - Rolled oats are steamed and rolled, so more processed. Steel cut undergo minimal processing. Nutrition - Due to less processing, steel-cut oats retain a bit more protein, fibre and fat. Differences are minor. Price - Steel-cut oats are typically more expensive than rolled oats.