Imagine a bowl of warm, creamy, and comforting soup just waiting to be savored on a chilly day. This instant pot creamy potato soup recipe is exactly that: hearty, delicious, and easy to make. With chunks of soft potatoes and a blend of rich cheeses, it's the perfect comfort food.
Photos of Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup Recipe
The ingredients in this recipe are mostly common, but please pay attention to the 'cream cheese' and 'low-sodium chicken broth'. Cream cheese is usually found in the dairy section at the supermarket, and it comes in a variety of flavors. For this recipe, stick to the original, unflavored variety. Low-sodium chicken broth is less salty than regular chicken broth and can be found in the soup aisle.
Ingredients for the Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup
Butter: Adds a rich flavor to the soup; melts easily under heat.
Yellow onion: Gives a sweet flavor to the soup.
Celery: Adds a refreshing, crisp taste.
Low-sodium chicken broth: The base of the soup, adds flavor without too much salt.
Russet potatoes: They are starchy and absorb flavors well.
Carrots: Gives a sweet, earthy flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavor.
Black pepper: Adds a spicy note.
Whole milk: Makes the soup creamy.
Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent.
Cream cheese: Adds richness and creaminess.
Cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, savory flavor.
Bacon: Gives the soup a smoky flavor.
Green onions: Adds a mild, oniony flavor.
One reader, Latrina Fontaine says:
This instant pot creamy potato soup recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and tastes absolutely delicious. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it the perfect comfort food. I love how versatile it is, and it's become a family favorite in no time. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup
How to sauté vegetables: In a heated pot, add butter and then sauté the onions and celery until they are tender.
How to thicken soup: Whisk a small amount of milk with cornstarch in a separate bowl, then add the remaining milk and whisk it into the soup to thicken it.
How to release pressure from the Instant Pot: After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then use the quick release method to release any remaining pressure.
How To Make How To Make Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup
Having a rough day? This instant pot creamy potato soup can help you feel better. It’s creamy and cheesy that everyone can enjoy.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspbutter
- 1cupyellow onionchopped
- 1cupcelerydiced
- 2canslow-sodium chicken broth(14.5 oz)
- 6cupsrusset potatoespeeled and diced , (cut about 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1cupcarrotsdiced
- salt
- black pepperfreshly ground
- 1½cupswhole milk(then more to thin as it rests as desired)
- 1½tbspcornstarch
- 8ozcream cheese(diced into small cubes)
- 1cupcheddar cheeseshredded
- 8slicesbacon(chopped and cooked)
- green onionschopped, or parsley ((optional))
Instructions
-
Select the “saute” setting on the Instant Pot.
-
Once it reads “hot” add butter and let melt.
-
Add in onions and celery and saute for 2 minutes then press “cancel.”
-
Add in potatoes, carrots, and broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Submerge veggies down into the broth.
-
Seal the lid on the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to “sealing position,” then select “manual” mode and 9 minutes.
-
Once the time is up, let the pressure come down naturally for 5 minutes, then use the quick release method to release any remaining pressure.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk a few tablespoons of milk with the cornstarch, then add in remaining milk and whisk.
-
Press “cancel” on Instant Pot, then select the “saute” setting.
-
Pour milk mixture into the soup in the Instant Pot along with cream cheese.
-
Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking frequently, and let boil for about 1 minute (you can also mash up the potatoes a little if desired).
-
Serve warm with cheddar, bacon, and green onions or parsley. Note that the soup will thicken as it rests (especially overnight with all those starches, so thin with more milk as desired).
Nutrition
- Calories: 626.79kcal
- Fat: 42.73g
- Saturated Fat: 20.62g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.93g
- Carbohydrates: 41.94g
- Fiber: 3.66g
- Sugar: 8.20g
- Protein: 21.35g
- Cholesterol: 105.82mg
- Sodium: 1236.28mg
- Calcium: 310.07mg
- Potassium: 1150.68mg
- Iron: 2.28mg
- Vitamin A: 434.81µg
- Vitamin C: 12.24mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup
When preparing your potato soup, it's important to cut your potatoes and carrots into similar-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly in the Instant Pot. If some pieces are larger than others, they may not cook thoroughly, resulting in a soup with inconsistent texture. Additionally, when adding the cream cheese, make sure it's at room temperature. This will help it melt smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy and rich texture without any lumps.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Instant Pot Potato Soup
Prep ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure out the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables from the grocery store to skip the prep work.
Multi-task: While the soup is cooking in the Instant Pot, prepare the toppings or clean up the kitchen to make the most of your time.
Quick release: Use the quick release method to release pressure from the Instant Pot for faster cooking.
Invest in an immersion blender: Use an immersion blender to quickly and easily blend the soup directly in the Instant Pot, eliminating the need to transfer it to a separate blender.
Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish while also being a healthier alternative to butter.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions, but they can still provide the aromatic base for the soup.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a hint of licorice flavor that can add a unique twist to the soup.
low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative and still provide a savory base for the soup.
russet potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and buttery flavor that works well in soups, and they hold their shape when cooked.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor compared to carrots, adding a unique depth to the soup.
whole milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a creamy texture without the lactose.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency in the soup.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a tangy flavor to the soup while reducing the overall fat content.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a rich and nutty flavor that can elevate the soup with a more complex taste.
bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey bacon: Smoked turkey bacon can provide a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture while being a leaner option.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the soup.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Instant Pot Potato Soup
Elevate the soup bowl: Choose a beautiful, shallow soup bowl to showcase the creamy potato soup. The wide rim of the bowl provides a canvas for garnishing and allows the soup to be the star of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles in a circular pattern on the soup's surface, ensuring even distribution. This adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor to each spoonful.
Incorporate color contrast: Add a pop of color to the dish by finely chopping fresh green onions and sprinkling them over the soup. The vibrant green hue creates a visually appealing contrast against the creamy soup.
Artful cheese placement: Grate high-quality cheddar cheese using a fine grater and delicately sprinkle it over the soup. The cheese should be evenly distributed, enhancing the visual appeal and adding a rich, savory flavor.
Attention to detail with bacon strips: Place a small, crispy bacon strip on the edge of the soup bowl, leaning against the rim. This adds a touch of elegance and provides a delightful surprise for the diner.
Consider the placement of the soup spoon: Position a polished soup spoon on the side of the bowl, ensuring it complements the overall presentation without overshadowing the star of the dish.
Use a refined plating technique: Carefully wipe any spills or smudges from the rim of the bowl, ensuring a clean and polished presentation that reflects attention to detail.
Emphasize the soup's texture: Highlight the creamy texture of the soup by ensuring a smooth and even surface, creating an inviting visual appeal that complements the luxurious flavor.
Balance and symmetry: Aim for a balanced and symmetrical presentation, ensuring that the garnishes and elements are thoughtfully placed to create a visually harmonious composition.
Mindful use of negative space: Embrace the beauty of negative space on the plate, allowing the soup to be the focal point while maintaining an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Instant Pot Potato Soup
- Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used for sautéing, steaming, slow cooking, and more.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
- Medium bowl: A container for mixing and whisking ingredients.
- Spatula: A tool used for stirring and scraping the sides of the pot to prevent sticking.
- Knife: Used for chopping vegetables and other ingredients.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients for the recipe.
- Soup ladle: For serving the creamy potato soup.
- Instant-read thermometer: To check the temperature of the soup for food safety.
- Cheese grater: For grating the cheddar cheese to top the soup.
- Cooking spoon: For stirring and serving the soup.
- Bowl: For serving the soup.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Instant Pot Potato Soup
- Let the potato soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 4-5 days.
- When ready to reheat, you may need to add a little extra milk or broth to thin out the soup, as it will thicken during storage.
- If freezing, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Transfer the thawed soup to a pot and reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through.
- If the soup appears too thick after thawing, add some extra milk or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- Avoid freezing the soup with toppings like bacon, cheese, or green onions, as they may become soggy or lose their texture. Instead, add fresh toppings when serving the reheated soup.
How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Potato Soup
Reheat the creamy potato soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out and achieve the desired consistency.
For a quick and easy reheating method, transfer the desired portion of leftover potato soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the soup is heated through.
If you have stored the bacon and cheddar cheese separately, reheat the soup using one of the above methods, then garnish with the reserved toppings just before serving. This will ensure that the bacon remains crispy and the cheese melts nicely on top of the hot soup.
For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the reheated potato soup slightly. This will also help to redistribute any separated ingredients and create a more homogeneous consistency.
If you find that the reheated soup is too thick or has absorbed a lot of the liquid during storage, you can thin it out by adding a bit of heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk. Stir well to incorporate the added liquid and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
Interesting Trivia About Creamy Potato Soup
Potato soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed that the first potato soup recipe was created in the 18th century by a French chef named Antoine-Augustin Parmentier. He popularized the use of potatoes in French cuisine and developed many recipes featuring this versatile ingredient. Today, potato soup is enjoyed in various forms around the world, and it continues to be a beloved dish for its creamy texture and hearty flavor.
Is Making Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup Cost-Effective?
This instant pot creamy potato soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, and onions, are affordable and readily available. The addition of bacon and cheddar cheese may slightly increase the cost, but they contribute to the overall flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, delicious taste, and budget-friendly nature.
Is This Creamy Potato Soup Healthy or Not?
This instant pot creamy potato soup recipe, while comforting and delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The use of butter and cream cheese adds significant amounts of saturated fat to the dish.
- Whole milk and cheddar cheese further contribute to the high fat content.
- Bacon, although tasty, is known for its high levels of saturated fat and sodium.
- The recipe relies heavily on potatoes, which are high in carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes.
However, the inclusion of vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots does provide some nutritional value in the form of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier without sacrificing too much flavor, consider the following modifications:
- Swap butter for a healthier oil like olive oil or avocado oil
- Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative instead of whole milk
- Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese or replace it with a mixture of Greek yogurt and cornstarch for a creamy texture
- Reduce the amount of cheddar cheese or choose a low-fat variety
- Replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether and garnish with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the soup, such as adding more carrots, celery, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale
- Use a combination of potatoes and cauliflower to lower the carbohydrate content while maintaining a creamy consistency
Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Potato Soup Recipe
The recipe for Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup is a delightful combination of comforting flavors and textures. The use of the Instant Pot ensures a quick and efficient cooking process, while the addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese provides a rich and creamy consistency. The incorporation of bacon and green onions adds a delightful contrast of savory and fresh elements. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and indulgent soup that is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Enhance Your Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Instant Pot Potato Soup
Why trust this Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a comforting and flavorful experience, using fresh and wholesome ingredients. The combination of russet potatoes, carrots, and celery creates a hearty and nutritious base, while the addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese adds a rich and creamy texture. The use of low-sodium chicken broth ensures a balanced and savory flavor profile. The incorporation of bacon and green onions as toppings provides a delightful crunch and freshness. Trust in the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe for a satisfying and soul-warming meal.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Instant Pot Potato Leek Soup Recipe
Instant Pot Potato Soup Recipe
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Tasty Creamy Ranch Potatoes Recipe
Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Easy Creamy Chicken Ramen Recipe
Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Instant Pot® Vegan Split Pea Soup Recipe
Easy Sweet Potato Soup Recipe
Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe
