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Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like a steaming bowl of potato soup. Creamy, hearty, and versatile, potato soup has been cherished for centuries across cultures. In many families, it’s that go-to dish on cold evenings, when you want something filling yet familiar.
The Instant Pot Potato Soup takes everything we love about traditional versions—silky potatoes, savory broth, and rich toppings—and makes it weeknight-friendly. Thanks to the Instant Pot’s pressure-cooking magic, you can have this classic dish ready in under 40 minutes, with flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering all day.
I first made Instant Pot Potato Soup during a busy week when I craved comfort but had little time. To my surprise, it turned out better than many stovetop versions I’d tried—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy. The best part? It quickly became a family favorite, especially when topped with cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh chives.
Why Make This Instant Pot Potato Soup?
There are plenty of reasons to love this recipe, but here are a few that stand out:
Time-Saving Convenience – The Instant Pot reduces cooking time significantly while keeping all the comforting flavors intact.
Customizable to Any Diet – Whether you’re aiming for vegetarian, gluten-free, or lighter options, this soup adapts easily.
Rich, Creamy Flavor – The combination of tender potatoes, cream, cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon delivers indulgence in every spoonful.
Perfect for All Occasions – It’s an easy weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even a starter for holiday gatherings.
Affordable and Filling – Potatoes are inexpensive yet nutrient-dense, making this soup budget-friendly without sacrificing satisfaction.
And if you love diving into the nutritional side of your meals, The Encyclopedia of Power Foods is packed with fascinating insights into ingredients you already use daily.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic, creamy Instant Pot Potato Soup.
6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 6 cups)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter soup)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky depth)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
¼ cup chopped fresh chives
Optional garnishes: sour cream, extra cheese, or extra bacon bits
Ingredient Note: Yukon gold potatoes can be swapped for russets if you prefer a naturally buttery, creamier texture.
Read More: Easy Potato Soup Recipe | Creamy, Comforting, and Beginner-Friendly
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and butter to the pot. Once melted, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until softened and fragrant. This step creates a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Stir in diced potatoes, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix well so the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings. Layering flavor early ensures a more robust soup.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Add chicken (or vegetable) broth, making sure the potatoes are just submerged. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set to Manual High Pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining steam.
Step 5: Blend to Desired Texture
For a creamy texture with some chunks, use an immersion blender directly in the pot and blend until about half the soup is smooth. Prefer silky-smooth soup? Blend longer. Want it rustic? Mash lightly with a potato masher instead.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Switch the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crumbled bacon, more cheese, and fresh chives. Serve hot with crusty bread or a green salad.
If you’re looking to make simple meals more nourishing, resources like The Encyclopedia of Power Foods can help. It highlights everyday ingredients—like humble potatoes—and shows how they can power your health in ways you might not expect.
Tips and Substitutions
Choosing the Right Potatoes – Russet potatoes yield a lighter, fluffier soup, while Yukon golds create a naturally creamier texture.
Make it Lighter – Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add pureed cauliflower to thicken the soup without extra cream.
Vegetarian-Friendly – Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip bacon. Consider topping with crispy fried shallots or roasted chickpeas for crunch.
Dairy-Free Option – Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for heavy cream, and use dairy-free cheese.
Extra Flavor Boosts – Add a bay leaf while pressure cooking (remove before blending) or stir in a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Texture Control – Blend more for smooth, creamy soup or leave more chunks for a hearty, rustic feel.
Batch Cooking Tip – Double the recipe in an 8-quart Instant Pot and freeze individual portions for quick meals.
Read More: Hearty Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe – Easy, Cheesy & Comforting
Recipe Variations
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Add sour cream, scallions, and extra shredded cheese on top for that classic loaded baked potato flavor.Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Stir in steamed broccoli florets before blending. Add more cheddar for a rich, cheesy version.Ham and Potato Soup
Replace bacon with diced ham. This version is heartier and perfect for repurposing leftover holiday ham.Spicy Southwest Potato Soup
Add diced jalapeños, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.Herb Garden Potato Soup
Replace thyme with fresh dill, rosemary, or parsley for a brighter, herbaceous twist.Cauliflower-Potato Soup
Swap half the potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb, nutrient-packed alternative.
If you enjoy experimenting with variations, you’ll appreciate the creative inspiration found in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods. It’s full of flavor-packed ideas to reinvent your favorite dishes.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~390
Protein: 13g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: ~750mg
Key Nutrients: Potassium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Calcium
Potatoes are surprisingly nutrient-dense, offering potassium for heart health and Vitamin C for immune support.
Read More: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe | Comforting & Easy Homemade Meal
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Refrigerator – Store cooled soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating – Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess if the soup thickens.
Serving Pairings – This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh side salad. It also works as a starter for roast chicken or baked salmon dinners.
Want more ideas for pairing comfort food with nutrient-dense sides? The Encyclopedia of Power Foods includes creative serving tips that make every meal feel balanced and satisfying.
Common Questions
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat gently and add toppings fresh before serving.
Q: How do I thicken potato soup without cream?
Use pureed potatoes or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken naturally.
Q: Can I leave the potato skins on?
Definitely. Skins add nutrients and texture, though the soup will be less smooth.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and toppings are certified gluten-free.
Q: What’s the best cheese for this soup?
Sharp cheddar adds depth, but Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even smoked gouda work wonderfully.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Potato Soup is the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort. In less than an hour, you can serve up a dish that tastes like it simmered all day, complete with rich creaminess and all the classic toppings.
So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy potato soup tonight. You’ll find it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Read More: 9 Delicious Carnivore Soup Recipes for Quick & Healthy Meals
