Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Everything you love about baked potatoes in soup form...cheese, bacon, sour cream, green onions and potatoes. Basically a cheesy potato soup recipe that you can make in your electric pressure cooker.

Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Everything you love about baked potatoes in soup form...cheese, bacon, sour cream, green onions and potatoes. Basically a cheesy potato soup recipe that you can make in your electric pressure cooker.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 5
  • Carbohydrate 32.7454502854068 g
  • Cholesterol 31.1300000367806 mg
  • Fat 11.4191722995339 g
  • Fiber 3.25711450599615 g
  • Protein 3.52924505121319 g
  • Saturated Fat 7.1581906364551 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (181g)
  • Sodium 82.1019858262034 mg
  • Sugar 29.4883357794107 g
  • Trans Fat 0.782198112155122 g
  • Calories 242 calories

Step-by-step

  • If using red or yellow potatoes, scrub them clean. If using Russet potatoes, peel them.
  • Pour 1 cup of water in the bottom of your Instant Pot and then place trivet in the bottom.
  • Place potatoes on top of the trivet.
  • Cover the Instant Pot and lock the lid. Make sure valve is set to "sealing."
  • Set the pressure cook button (mine says manual) for 10 minutes on high pressure for red or yellow potatoes and 20 minutes for russets.
  • When the timer beeps carefully move the valve to "venting" to let the pressure release.
  • When you can, remove the lid.
  • Remove the potatoes and set aside. Discard the water.
  • Turn the Instant Pot to the saute setting on "less."
  • Melt the butter. Once butter is melted whisk in one tablespoon of flour at a time until you get a creamy, lump-free roux.
  • Add in the salt and pepper. Let it start to bubble, whisking constantly.
  • Once it is bubbling add in the milk and Better than Bouillon and whisk.
  • Adjust the saute setting to a high heat. Whisk every few minutes until the milk starts to thicken and bubble.
  • Turn the Instant Pot to the warm setting.
  • Stir in the sour cream, cheddar, diced onions and bacon.
  • Smash the potatoes with a potato masher. My potatoes were somewhat smashed but still had some chunkiness to them.
  • Stir the potatoes into the Instant Pot.
  • Salt and pepper the soup if needed.
  • Ladle into bowls and serve.

Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and comforting meal can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running smoothly, I often find myself craving simple, yet satisfying recipes that don't take hours to prepare. That's where this Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup steps in – a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights.

This recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. The creamy, cheesy potato base is a blank canvas, ready to be customized to your heart's content. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add in your favorite herbs and spices, or even throw in some leftover roasted chicken or broccoli for extra protein and nutrients. The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. It's the perfect recipe for using up leftovers and creating a unique meal each time.

I’ve always loved baked potatoes, that fluffy, comforting texture, combined with all the delicious toppings. This soup manages to capture that same essence but in a much faster and more convenient format. Forget about scrubbing potatoes and waiting for them to bake in the oven; this Instant Pot method cuts down the cooking time significantly. The pressure cooker perfectly tenderizes the potatoes while the sauté function allows for the easy creation of a creamy, flavorful base.

The taste is unbelievably rich and decadent. The creamy texture perfectly complements the savory bacon bits and sharp cheddar cheese. The green onions add a refreshing touch, creating a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. And let's be honest, who doesn't love a good spoonful of sour cream swirling into a bowl of creamy potato soup? The whole family loves this recipe, and it always leaves us feeling satisfied and warm from the inside out.

Beyond the Weeknight: This recipe isn't just a weeknight hero; it’s also perfect for entertaining. Imagine serving this hearty and flavorful soup at your next get-together. It's a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to enjoy your guests without stressing over the kitchen. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a versatile dish that can elevate any occasion.

Tips and Tricks for Success: For the best results, use high-quality ingredients. The better the cheese, the better the soup. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of potatoes. I’ve found that russets work particularly well, but red potatoes or Yukon golds are also delicious options. You can also adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more or less milk. If you want a thicker soup, reduce the amount of milk. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more. And of course, feel free to customize the toppings to your liking! Adding some chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika can add another layer of flavor.

This Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup isn't just a recipe; it's a time-saving, flavour-packed solution for busy people who still want to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal. Give it a try, and I'm sure it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, too. It’s more than just a soup; it's a warm hug in a bowl.

Variations:

  • Spicy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup for a kick.
  • Vegetarian Potato Soup: Omit the bacon bits and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
  • Loaded Potato Bar: Serve the soup with a variety of toppings on the side, such as shredded cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, green onions, chives, and crispy fried onions, allowing everyone to customize their own bowls.
  • Creamy Curry Potato Soup: Add a tablespoon of curry powder to the soup for an exotic twist.

Enjoy!