Instant Pot 8-Minute Cheesy Potato Soup

You’ve heard us sing the praises of the Instant Pot before, and we’re not going to stop anytime soon. It’s SO much more than a pressure cooker; it’s like three appliances in one! It saves a ton of time on so many recipes and, unlike a slow cooker, you can really cook everything in one pot, even when something needs searing or sautéing. Take this soup, for instance. It’s an unbelievably cheesy and comforting potato soup, and the cooking time with the Instant Pot is only EIGHT MINUTES. You heard us.

All in all, this is a pretty simple soup. It gets its heartiness from potatoes, its creaminess from cream cheese, and its cheesiness from a healthy dose of sharp cheddar. There are a few extra adornments, but it’s pretty straightforward in what it’s trying to be: a hearty and comforting soup that’s full of delicious flavor. Believe us, it accomplishes its goals. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s so quick and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Cheesy Potato Soup is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet comforting. It’s rich and creamy, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s made in one pot, which means less cleanup!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 8 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4-6 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• Bacon, to garnish (optional)
• Green onion, to garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” and add butter to the pot. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Add potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika to the pot. Add enough broth to just cover the potatoes, and stir to combine.
3. Press “Cancel” to quit the “Sauté” mode and place the lid on the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve on top is set to “Sealing.” Press the “Manual” button and set the time to 8 minutes.
4. When the timer goes off, let it sit for 2 minutes, then turn the valve from “Sealing” to “Venting” to release the pressure. When the pressure is released (you will hear a small pop when it’s done), remove the lid.
5. Stir in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted. (It helps to break the cream cheese into chunks first.) Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve with bacon and green onion on top, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to help it melt more easily.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth.
• For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender before adding the cheese.

Additional Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
• Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 | Protein: 15g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just keep in mind that the texture might thicken, so you may need to add a bit more broth when reheating.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. The texture might change slightly due to the dairy content, so give it a good stir when you reheat it.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, cheesy, and comforting Instant Pot Potato Soup that’s ready in just eight minutes! We hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with its creamy goodness just as we have. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations and any tweaks you made in the comments below. Happy cooking!