Introduction to Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup
Why Loaded Potato Soup is a Go-To for Young Professionals
Imagine coming home after a long day at the office, only to be greeted by the inviting aroma of creamy, delicious Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup simmering away. This soup is not just comfort food; it’s also the star of quick weeknight dinners! The hustle and bustle of young professional life often leaves little time for elaborate cooking. With this recipe, you can achieve a hearty meal in under 40 minutes, from prep to table.
The Instant Pot makes everything easier—simply sauté, pressure cook, and let the magic happen. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors created when russet potatoes blend with cheese and turkey bacon, all while having the freedom to unwind after work. Did you know that homemade soups can also be healthier than takeout? By using fresh ingredients and controlling the seasoning, you can nourish your body without sacrificing taste.
Plus, the versatility of this Loaded Potato Soup means it can cater to all dietary preferences: vegan, gluten-free, or even dairy-free. So whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, you'll find that this soup checks all boxes for flavor, convenience, and satisfaction!
For a complete recipe, check out our full guide on how to make Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup, including a handy slow cooker version.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up your delicious Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup, gather the following essentials:
- 1 tablespoon butter: The base for your soup’s rich flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds depth and sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant kick.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The hearty foundation for your soup.
- 1 can or box of cream of chicken soup: Creates creaminess and body.
- 7-8 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped: The star ingredient!
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Start with this, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Black pepper: For a hint of warmth.
- 1 cup milk: Enriches the soup’s texture.
- 1 tablespoon flour: To thicken up the goodness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: More cheese equals more happiness!
Optional Ingredients for Customization
Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup with these tasty add-ins:
- Turkey bacon: A healthier alternative that adds smokiness.
- Sliced green onions: For a fresh crunch and color.
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese: Because you can never have too much cheese!
- Chicken ham: To infuse more protein and flavor.
Experimenting with these optional ingredients not only enhances the soup's taste but also makes it your own, so have fun with it! Want more inspiration? Check out this helpful guide on customizing soups for creative ideas.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Loaded Potato Soup
Cooking can often feel daunting, especially when you’re juggling a busy lifestyle. But with this Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup, you’ll discover just how easy and rewarding it is to whip up a comforting meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Let’s dive right into the preparation steps!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into cooking, you’ll want to gather all your ingredients to streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup (Pacific Foods brand is a favorite)
- 7-8 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt (or adjust to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional garnishes: Turkey bacon, sliced green onions, extra cheese
Having everything prepped not only makes your cooking smoother but also adds a splash of joy as you watch the transformation from raw ingredients to a delicious soup.
Sauté the onions and garlic
Start by turning on your Instant Pot and setting it to sauté mode. Add the butter and allow it to melt fully. Then, toss in the diced onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn soft. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This base of onions and garlic is essential for building layers of flavor in your loaded potato soup.
Add broth and potatoes to the pot
With the onions and garlic sautéed, it’s time to add in the magic ingredients. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cream of chicken soup, chopped potatoes, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine everything nicely. The potatoes are the star here, so make sure they are evenly distributed for a consistent cook.
Pressure cook the soup
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the vent valve to “sealing.” Set it to manual high pressure and cook for 10 minutes. This process builds up steam and helps cook the potatoes to a tender perfection. Once the cooking time is up, carefully quick release the pressure, allowing the steam to escape before opening the lid.
Make the thickening slurry
As the soup cools slightly, take a small bowl and combine the milk and flour to create a slurry. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture we all love in loaded potato soup. Once mixed, set it aside for the next step. The flour will help to thicken the soup perfectly after all the goodness has blended together.
Final touches: stir in cheese and serve
Once you’ve opened the lid and the steam has released, give the soup a gentle stir and then add the slurry. Turn the Instant Pot back to sauté and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the soup thickens. Finally, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the creamy goodness.
Serve your Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup garnished with chopped turkey bacon, sliced green onions, and more cheddar if you're feeling indulgent. This temperature-pleasing, cheesy delight is bound to satisfy! Enjoy every spoonful, knowing you’ve done it all in a flash!
Variations on Loaded Potato Soup
Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup
Looking to make a delightful Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup without meat? Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also replace cream of chicken soup with cream of celery soup for a robust flavor. Adding fresh vegetables like spinach or carrots can give an extra nutritional boost!
Vegan Loaded Potato Soup
For a dish that fits a vegan lifestyle, switch the butter for olive oil and indulge in plant-based alternatives. Use non-dairy milk—such as almond or oat milk—and a vegan cheese option, or go cheese-free for a lighter version. Check out this comprehensive vegan cooking guide for more inspiration!
Gluten-Free Loaded Potato Soup
To keep your Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute the all-purpose flour with rice flour or chickpea flour. These simple swaps will maintain the creaminess you love without the gluten. For more tips on gluten-free cooking, visit Celiac Disease Foundation.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Loaded Potato Soup
Choosing the Right Potatoes
For your Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup, russet potatoes are a top choice. Their high starch content creates that creamy texture we all crave. If you want something a bit different, Yukon golds can also work beautifully. Avoid red potatoes; they don't soften as much, resulting in a chunkier soup.
How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency
To get that velvety consistency, aim for uniform potato chunks around 1 inch. If you love a smoother soup, consider using an immersion blender or a regular blender after cooking. This way, you can control the texture just how you like it!
Recommended Brands for Cream Soups and Cheeses
When it comes to cream soups, I personally recommend Pacific Foods brand for its rich flavor and quality ingredients. For cheese, a sharp cheddar enhances the soup’s depth—grate your own from a block for the best melt!
Using these tips will make your Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup even more delicious and satisfying!
Serving Suggestions for Loaded Potato Soup
Ideal garnishes to enhance flavor
The Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup shines with a few simple garnishes that take it from good to great. Consider adding:
- Turkey bacon: Crispy and savory, this is a healthier alternative that adds crunch.
- Sliced green onions: They bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that beautifully complements the creamy soup.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkle some on top for that cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
Feel free to mix and match these garnishes based on your taste preferences!
Pairing suggestions for a complete meal
Make your Loaded Potato Soup a full meal by pairing it with:
- A side salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the soup. Try a simple cucumber and tomato salad or a mixed greens salad with a zingy vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread: Perfect for dunking, this hearty addition elevates the meal.
- Fruit or yogurt: A light dessert like fresh fruit or yogurt can be a satisfying finish to your meal.
With these suggestions, you'll have a delightful dining experience that’s sure to impress!
Time Breakdown for Loaded Potato Soup
Preparation Time
The prep for this Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup is quick and easy! You’ll spend about 15 minutes chopping and measuring out your ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Cooking Time
With the Instant Pot, you’ll cut down your cooking time significantly! The soup only takes 18 minutes under high pressure, plus a few moments for the quick release.
Total Time
In just 33 minutes, you can have a hearty and delicious bowl of Loaded Potato Soup ready to serve, making this recipe a go-to for busy evenings. You can check out more details on preparation techniques at Bon Appétit for some helpful tips!
Nutritional Facts for Loaded Potato Soup
Calories
This Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup packs a satisfying 481 calories per serving. Perfect for a cozy night in, it gives you that comforting feel without weighing you down.
Carbohydrates
With 43 grams of carbohydrates, this soup is a hearty meal option to refuel your energy after a long day. The potatoes provide essential nutrients and keep you feeling full longer.
Protein
Each bowl contains about 19 grams of protein, primarily from the cheese and optional turkey bacon. It’s a great way to incorporate protein into your diet while enjoying a deliciously creamy soup.
For more detailed nutritional information, check out this USDA nutritional database, and make the most out of your meals!
FAQs about Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup
Can I freeze the loaded potato soup?
Absolutely! Freezing your Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup is a great way to enjoy it later. Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Want to add some heat? There are several easy ways to spice things up! Consider adding:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking.
- Chopped jalapeños for a fresh kick.
- Diced green chiles for a smoky flavor.
- Your favorite hot sauce at the table to customize each bowl.
Feel free to get creative based on your spice tolerance!
What can I serve with loaded potato soup?
This creamy potato soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Turkey bacon or chicken ham for added protein.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting combo.
Enjoying your soup with these sides will take your meal to the next level!
Conclusion on Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup
In summary, the Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup is a delightful culinary escape that combines ease with flavor. With its creamy texture and satisfying ingredients like Turkey Bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, it's perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and watch it become a family favorite!
Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup with Turkey Bacon and Chicken Ham
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can/box cream of chicken soup I prefer Pacific Foods brand
- 7-8 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1 inch cubes (about 2.5 pounds of potatoes)
- 1.5 teaspoons salt (or more/less to taste)
- black pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese I use sharp cheddar
Garnish
- 5-6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- sliced green onions
- shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Add butter to the Instant Pot and turn on the sauté button. Once butter is melted, add in the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add in the garlic and cook for one additional minute until fragrant, stirring constantly so that garlic does not burn.
- Add the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, potatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot, and stir well. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the vent valve to 'sealing.' Cook over manual high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
- Meanwhile, stir together the milk and flour in a small bowl to create a slurry. Set aside.
- Once the steam has completely released and the pin has dropped on the lid, open the lid and stir in the slurry. Turn the pot to sauté and cook the soup for 4-5 minutes, until thickened. Stir in the 2 cups of cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Serve garnished with chopped bacon, green onions, and more cheese. Enjoy!
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