Craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious soup that's ready in a flash? Then look no further! This Loaded Potato Soup recipe, made in your trusty Instant Pot, is the ultimate answer to your weeknight dinner woes. Forget spending hours simmering on the stovetop; this recipe delivers all the cheesy, bacon-y goodness of a classic loaded potato in a fraction of the time. It's a perfect blend of easy recipes and healthy meals, ideal for busy families and anyone who appreciates a quick dinner idea without sacrificing flavor. This is homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started:
- Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Building the soup:
-
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pressure cooking:
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
Finishing touches:
-
Carefully open the lid and stir in the milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the potatoes.
-
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Loaded Potato Soup:
- Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture. Russet potatoes can also be used but may result in a slightly fluffier soup.
- Broth Selection: Chicken broth adds a richer, savory depth of flavor. Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend.
- Make it Heartier: Add cooked chicken, ham, or sausage for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Loaded Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Loaded Potato Soup: Use full-fat milk and sour cream for extra richness.
This Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s a delicious and easy recipe perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy the fantastic flavors and the convenience of this quick and healthy meal!