Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup (Creamy & So Easy to Make!)
There’s something comforting about the aroma of simmering potatoes, instantly evoking memories of cozy family dinners. I remember the first time I made loaded potato soup in my Instant Pot on a chilly evening after a long day—it was the perfect remedy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich and Creamy: Delivers a hearty, comforting flavor.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Reheats well for convenient leftovers.
- Family Favorite: A hit at gatherings and cozy nights in.
The Story Behind the Recipe
This loaded potato soup has become a staple in my home, bringing warmth and comfort to every bowl. It all started when I discovered the Instant Pot—a kitchen essential that made cooking easier without sacrificing flavor.
After a few trials, I perfected this recipe, and now, every time I make it, I’m reminded of cozy evenings spent around the table, sharing laughter, stories, and the simple joy of a homemade meal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 2½ pounds russet potatoes: Peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Diced.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup half-and-half: For creaminess; substitute with milk or heavy cream as desired.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds depth of flavor.
- 4 slices bacon: Cooked and crumbled; omit for a vegetarian version.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: To create a slurry for thickening.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- Sliced green onions: For garnish.
Prep & Cook Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add butter, and once melted, sauté diced onions for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 10 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and half-and-half to create a slurry. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode, stir in the slurry, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the soup thickens.
- Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only half or use a potato masher.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions.
Expert Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup
- Potato Selection: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which contributes to a creamy consistency.
- Consistent Dicing: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Adjusting Thickness: For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly; for a thinner consistency, add more broth or half-and-half.
- Flavor Variations: Incorporate toppings like sour cream, additional cheese, or chives for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Protein | Sodium | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per serving | 342 | 16g | 12g | 446mg | 1g |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQs About Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
Relish Every Spoonful of This Loaded Potato Soup
Enjoy crafting this comforting Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup, perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings.
