The Ultimate Creamy Instant Pot Potato Soup: A Comfort Food Masterpiece
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to chase away the chill of a cold day. And when it comes to ultimate comfort, few dishes compare to a rich and creamy potato soup. But what if you could achieve that deep, savory flavor and velvety texture in a fraction of the time? Enter the Instant Pot potato soup – a game-changer for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. With its luscious broth, tender chunks of potato, aromatic garlic, and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon on top, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, made effortlessly simple with your Instant Pot.
As the leaves begin to fall and the crisp air of autumn transitions into the cozy embrace of winter, my kitchen transforms into a haven for hearty soups and stews. This particular Instant Pot potato soup has swiftly ascended to the top of my list of go-to recipes. It embodies everything one desires in a cold-weather dish: substantial pieces of tender potatoes and sweet onions, an incredibly creamy and cheesy broth, and a generous sprinkle of perfectly crispy bacon to crown it all. The beauty of using an Instant Pot for soup is its unparalleled ability to infuse profound flavors with minimal effort, and this loaded potato soup recipe is a shining example.
Each spoonful delivers an explosion of flavors, marrying the earthiness of potatoes, the pungent warmth of garlic, the subtle sweetness of onions, the decadent richness of cheese and cream, the foundational depth of chicken broth, and the smoky savoriness of bacon. The convenience and speed of the Instant Pot mean you don’t have to simmer a pot all day long to achieve this gourmet taste. So, on your next chilly evening in, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in this unbelievably rich, hearty, and satisfying Instant Pot potato soup. It’s the perfect dish to warm you from the inside out and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Why This Instant Pot Potato Soup Will Be Your New Favorite
This creamy and cheesy potato soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience destined to become a beloved staple in your home. Here’s a closer look at why you’ll be making this hearty and comforting Instant Pot soup time and time again:
- Effortless Preparation: In today’s fast-paced world, easy recipes are a treasure. This creamy potato soup, made in the Instant Pot, truly couldn’t be simpler. It utilizes common household ingredients that you likely already have on hand, saving you a trip to the grocery store. The instructions are incredibly straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. The Instant Pot handles the bulk of the work, allowing you to achieve a gourmet-level soup with minimal hands-on time and cleanup.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s a special kind of magic in a bowl of warm, creamy potato soup, and this recipe captures it perfectly. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal, incredibly creamy, wonderfully warm, and deeply soothing. Each spoonful wraps you in a blanket of comfort, making it an ideal choice for a dreary day or simply when you need a little culinary pick-me-up. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes both body and soul, leaving you feeling utterly content and satisfied.
- Unbeatable Flavor Development: One of the most remarkable advantages of cooking in an Instant Pot is its ability to create complex, slow-cooked flavors in mere minutes. This potato soup, despite taking less than an hour from start to finish, tastes as if it has been simmering on the stove all day. The pressure cooking process forces flavors deep into every ingredient, resulting in a rich, savory, and incredibly well-rounded soup that far surpasses expectations for a quick meal. You’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor packed into every bite.
Essential Ingredients for Your Instant Pot Potato Soup
Crafting this easy and comforting cheesy potato soup in your Instant Pot requires a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Most of these are likely staples in your pantry, making this recipe incredibly convenient. For the precise measurements of each component, please refer to the detailed recipe card conveniently located at the end of this article.
- Butter: Essential for sautéing the aromatics and adding a rich foundational flavor to the soup.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion is my preference for its balanced sweetness, but red or white onions can also be used depending on your taste. Finely chopped ensures it blends seamlessly into the soup.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that pungent, aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish. Don’t skimp on the garlic!
- Potatoes: The star of the show! Russet potatoes are highly recommended for their texture and starch content (more on this below).
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the overall saltiness of your soup. This allows you to season to your personal preference without risking an overly salty dish. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy Cream: This is where the soup gets its luxurious, velvety texture and rich mouthfeel. There’s no real substitute for heavy cream if you want that classic creamy potato soup experience.
- Cornstarch: Used to create a “slurry” with the heavy cream, this acts as a thickening agent, ensuring your soup reaches that perfect, comforting consistency without being too thin or watery.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild, shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the hot broth, adding a tangy, savory, and undeniably gooey element. Freshly grated cheese often melts smoother than pre-shredded, but either will work.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out and balancing all the other flavors. Always use freshly cracked black pepper for the best aroma and taste.
- Bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled, bacon serves as an irresistible topping, adding a salty, smoky crunch that perfectly complements the creamy soup.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a fresh, mild oniony bite and a vibrant color contrast, adding another layer of flavor and visual appeal as a garnish.
Selecting the Best Potatoes for an Unforgettable Potato Soup
While almost any potato variety can technically be used in potato soup, choosing the right type can significantly impact the final texture and flavor. For this Instant Pot potato soup recipe, I strongly recommend using **russet potatoes**. Here’s why they are the superior choice:
- Low Water Content: Russets have a relatively low water content, which means they are excellent at absorbing the rich, creamy, and savory flavors of the broth. This ensures that every bite of potato is infused with deliciousness, rather than tasting bland.
- High Starch Content: The high starch content in russet potatoes is their secret weapon for creating a truly creamy soup. As they cook under pressure and begin to break down, their starches are released into the broth. This natural thickening agent contributes to a wonderfully smooth, thick, and luxurious consistency without needing excessive amounts of additional thickeners.
While you can certainly experiment with other varieties like Yukon Gold (which offer a slightly waxy texture and buttery flavor) or red potatoes (which hold their shape well), russets will consistently deliver the creamiest, most flavorful, and most satisfying Instant Pot potato soup. Remember to peel and dice them into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Crafting Your Instant Pot Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Get ready to create a truly soothing and satisfying potato soup in under an hour, with just a few simple steps. The Instant Pot makes this process incredibly efficient and enjoyable. Follow these instructions for a perfect bowl every time:
- Sauté the Aromatics to Build Flavor: Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Once hot, add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Introduce the finely chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. Be vigilant during this step; garlic can burn quickly, which will impart a bitter taste to your entire soup. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes fragrant but before it starts to brown.
- Layer in the Potatoes and Broth: After your aromatics are perfectly sautéed, add the diced russet potatoes to the Instant Pot. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring that the potatoes are mostly submerged. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, making sure no pieces are sticking to the bottom of the pot. This prevents the “Burn” error during pressure cooking.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid onto your Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place and the vent is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) setting and set the cooking time to 10 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This “Natural Release” (NR) helps to prevent foaming and ensures the potatoes remain tender but not mushy. After 10 minutes, carefully switch the vent to “Venting” for a “Quick Release” (QR) to release any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.
- Thicken to Your Desired Consistency: While the Instant Pot is naturally releasing, prepare your thickening slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until a smooth, lump-free mixture forms. Once the Instant Pot lid is removed, switch the setting back to “Sauté.” Pour in the cream and cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously. Allow the soup to cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. The starch from the potatoes, combined with the cornstarch, will create a beautifully rich and thick soup.
- Melt in the Cheese: Turn off the “Sauté” function or press “Cancel” to prevent the cheese from scorching. Add the shredded cheddar cheese directly into the hot soup. Stir gently until the cheese has completely melted, creating a wonderfully gooey and integrated texture throughout the soup. The residual heat from the soup is usually sufficient for melting the cheese without needing further cooking.
- Season to Perfection: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper in small increments until the flavors are perfectly balanced to your palate. Remember, it’s easier to add more than to remove excess salt.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the steaming hot soup into individual bowls. Garnish generously with crispy crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of fresh sliced green onions, and an extra dusting of shredded cheese for that ultimate loaded potato soup experience. Serve immediately and savor every comforting spoonful!
Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Potato Soup
To ensure your cheesy potato soup turns out absolutely perfect every time, keep these valuable tips in mind. They’ll help you achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen:
- Ensure Consistent Potato Cuts: The key to evenly cooked potatoes is uniform sizing. Take a little extra time to cut all your potatoes into roughly the same 1-inch cube size. This consistency guarantees that every piece of potato softens perfectly without some becoming mushy while others remain undercooked, thereby improving the overall texture of your soup.
- Prevent Garlic from Burning: Garlic is a foundational flavor, but it can turn bitter if scorched. When sautéing, watch the garlic carefully. Once it becomes fragrant and slightly softened, typically within 2-3 minutes, immediately add the chicken broth. This stops the cooking process and prevents the garlic from burning, ensuring its sweet, aromatic notes infuse the soup without any harshness. If you notice any bits sticking to the bottom, deglaze the pot with a splash of broth before adding the rest of the liquid.
- Customize Taste and Texture: This recipe is a guideline; feel free to adjust it to your liking! After adding all ingredients and before serving, taste the soup. Adjust the salt and pepper to match your preferred level of seasoning. If you desire a thicker soup, either continue to simmer it on the sauté setting for a few more minutes, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create another slurry and stir it in. For a thinner, looser consistency, simply stir in additional heavy cream or chicken broth until it reaches your ideal texture. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Don’t Skip the Natural Release: The 10-minute natural pressure release is important for this soup. It allows the pressure to drop slowly, which helps prevent the starchy potatoes from becoming overly foamy or disintegrating too much, contributing to a better texture.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can sometimes make it melt less smoothly. For the creamiest, meltiest cheese experience, consider grating your own block of cheddar.
Creative Topping Ideas for Your Loaded Instant Pot Potato Soup
One of the most delightful aspects of this Instant Pot potato soup recipe is its versatility when it comes to garnishes. Turning it into a “loaded” potato soup allows for endless customization and adds layers of flavor and texture. Here are some fantastic toppings I love to pile on:
- Meat Enhancements: While crispy crumbled bacon is a classic and called for in this recipe, don’t stop there! Consider adding diced grilled chicken for extra protein, or even small chunks of seared steak for a more gourmet touch. Pulled pork or sausage can also add a delightful savory twist.
- Extra Cheese: Who can say no to more cheese? A generous sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp aged white cheddar can take the cheesiness factor to the next level as a final garnish.
- Onion Varieties: Freshly sliced green onions offer a mild, crisp bite and a pop of color. For a slightly bolder flavor, finely diced red onions can also be a wonderful addition.
- Creamy Additions: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a refreshing tang and an extra layer of creaminess that cuts through the richness of the soup.
- A Kick of Heat: For those who love a little spice, a sprinkle of chili flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, a swirl of chili oil, or finely diced fresh jalapeños can really liven things up. A few grinds of freshly cracked black pepper also provide a pleasant warmth.
- Crunchy Elements: Beyond bacon, consider homemade or store-bought croutons for a delightful crunch. Toasted bread crumbs or even crispy fried onions can also add textural interest.
- Fresh Herbs: Elevate the soup with a scattering of fresh herbs. Chopped parsley, chives, or a sprig of fresh thyme add a touch of brightness and aromatic depth.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Potato Soup
This cozy winter soup is incredibly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a simple side can transform it into a truly complete and balanced meal. I often find myself serving it with a crusty bread for dipping and a light, crisp salad to contrast its richness. Here are a few recipes that beautifully complement this Instant Pot potato soup:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.
- French Bread Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are ideal for a comforting meal.
- Copycat Crazy Bread: Cheesy, garlicky, and utterly addictive, this makes a fun addition.
- Chicken Caesar Salad: A refreshing, protein-packed salad to balance the richness.
- Simple Tossed Salad: A light vinaigrette dressing and fresh greens provide a wonderful contrast.
- BLT Salad: All the flavors of a classic sandwich in a fresh salad form.
Whether you opt for a simple side salad or a hearty bread, these accompaniments ensure a well-rounded and delightful dining experience.
Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Leftovers
One of the best things about making a large batch of Instant Pot potato soup is enjoying the leftovers! Proper storage ensures you can savor its comforting flavors for days to come:
You can easily store any leftover Instant Pot potato soup. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. For microwave reheating, warm the soup in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until it’s heated through evenly. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired temperature. Add a splash of broth or cream if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
Freezing Instant Pot Potato Soup for Future Enjoyment
Yes, absolutely! Freezing this creamy and comforting potato soup is a fantastic way to ensure you always have a quick, easy, and satisfying meal on hand for those busy days or unexpected cravings. I often keep a supply in my freezer, and I highly recommend it for meal prepping.
To freeze, first ensure the soup has completely cooled down to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent ice crystals from forming and affecting the texture. Once cooled, transfer the soup into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, lay them flat to freeze, which saves space. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave as described above, adding a bit of extra broth or cream if needed to restore its original consistency.
More Delightful and Easy Soup Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting simplicity of this Instant Pot potato soup, you’re in for a treat! As a fellow soup enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share more of my favorite easy and delicious soup recipes. Each one is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, just like our potato soup. Perfect for any day of the week, these recipes are guaranteed to satisfy your soup cravings:
- Instant Pot Vegetable Beef Soup: A hearty and wholesome meal packed with tender beef and garden vegetables.
- Chicken Taco Soup: All the vibrant flavors of tacos in a warm, zesty soup.
- Ham and Split Pea Soup: A classic, savory, and wonderfully thick soup, perfect for using up leftover ham.
- Turkey Wild Rice Soup: Creamy, rich, and comforting, especially great after the holidays.
- Tomato Tortellini Soup: A quick and flavorful soup featuring tender tortellini in a rich tomato base.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A spicy and tangy Asian-inspired soup that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Explore these recipes and discover new ways to bring warmth and flavor to your table, proving that delicious, homemade soup is always within reach!
Instant Pot Potato Soup
Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled, for topping
- Sliced green onions, for topping
Instructions
-
Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until it begins to soften.
-
Add the garlic and cook for 2-3 more minutes, until the garlic is soft and you can smell it.
-
Add the potatoes and pour in the chicken broth, then mix well to combine.
-
Put the lid on the Instant Pot, lock it, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
-
Put the cornstarch and heavy cream in a bowl and whisk to combine.
-
Remove the Instant Pot lid and set it to sauté. Pour in the cream and cornstarch slurry, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the soup thickens.
-
Add the shredded cheese and stir until it’s melted.
-
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
-
Serve the soup immediately, topping it with bacon, green onions, and additional cheese.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days or in the freezer for 3 months.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat, or in the microwave in 20-second increments.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!
I created a fun group on Facebook, and I would love for you to join us! It’s a place where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, and see what’s new at Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so that you never miss a new recipe)!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make!
Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!
Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram