Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ditch the Oven, Grab the Instant Pot: Loaded Baked Potato Soup in Under 30 Minutes!

Move over, oven, there's a new sheriff in town for whipping up creamy, cheesy, all-things-potato goodness: the Instant Pot! Yes, friends, your favorite comfort food just got a major upgrade with this Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe. Buckle up for a flavor explosion that's ready in under 30 minutes, without sacrificing an ounce of that rich, decadent satisfaction.

Why Your Taste Buds Will Do a Potato Jig:

• Speed Demon: Forget about slaving over a hot stove or waiting for the oven to preheat. This Instant Pot wonder delivers all the baked potato soup goodness in a lightning-fast 15 minutes of pressure cooking. ⚡️
• Flavor Fiesta: We're talking creamy potato base loaded with melty cheese, crispy bacon crumbles, and pops of fresh green onion. Each spoonful is a party for your palate!
• Customizable Cravings: Feeling spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Craving some extra veggie goodness? Throw in some chopped broccoli or corn. This recipe is your canvas, get creative!
• Clean Up Breeze: One pot means minimal mess! Dinnertime just got a whole lot easier (and less stressful).

Ready to whip up this potato-licious dream? Here's what you'll need:

• The Essentials: Russet potatoes, chicken broth, butter, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, bacon (for garnish)
• The Hero: Your trusty Instant Pot!

Get Cookin':

1. Dice those potatoes! The smaller the pieces, the creamier the soup.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic in your Instant Pot for a flavor boost.
3. Toss in the potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Let the Instant Pot work its magic with a 15-minute pressure cook. ‍♀️
4. Blend it up! Use an immersion blender or a regular blender (carefully!) to achieve that perfectly smooth and creamy texture. ️
5. Stir in the cheese, sour cream, and milk. Heat it through until everything is melty and glorious.
6. Garnish with crispy bacon crumbles, fresh green onions, and extra cheese (because why not?).

Pro Tip: This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Play with different cheeses (try Gruyere or Monterey Jack!), add a dollop of Greek yogurt for tanginess, or swap the bacon for crumbled sausage or shredded chicken. The possibilities are endless!

So, ditch the takeout menus and cozy up to a bowl of this quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It's the perfect antidote to a chilly day, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a comforting weeknight meal. Trust me, this recipe is a keeper!

Ingredients:

½ c yellow onion, diced

2 tbsp minced garlic

2 c chicken broth

4 oz cream cheese

4 medium russet potatoes diced

A pinch of salt

1 c half and half

Pepper to taste

2 c shredded cheddar cheese

½ c bacon lardons or crumbles

For garnish:

Bacon lardons or crumbles

Green onions

Shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Turn the instant pot to saute.

Add bacon lardons and saute for 3 minutes, stirring as needed.

Add diced onion and saute for 2 minutes or until soft, stir as needed.

Add minced garlic and saute for 1 minute. Turn the instant pot off to avoid burning the garlic!

Scrub and dice potatoes. Cut them into small chunks.

Add the potatoes to the instant pot.

Add a pinch of salt, and chicken broth.

Place the lid on the instant pot and seal the valve.

Set the instant pot to manual setting and set the timer for 10 minutes.

When the timer dings, quick release the steam.

Immediately add cream cheese, cut into chunks for easier melting.

Add half and half, and pepper to taste.

Add shredded cheddar cheese.

Stir.

Replace the lid and allow the cheeses to melt into the soup for about 5 minutes.

Stir and serve immediately.

Garnish with sliced green onions, additional bacon crumbles or lardons and extra cheddar cheese.

Happy Instant Potting!

P.S. Feeling inspired? Leave a comment below with your favorite Instant Pot hacks or loaded baked potato soup variations!

P.P.S. Be sure to follow me for more quick and easy Instant Pot recipes that will rock your world!

Find more instant pot recipes here:

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Reasons Why Soup Is the Best Cold-Weather Food

 

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When the temperature drops and the winds pick up, there's nothing quite like the comfort and warmth that a hot bowl of soup provides. There's something magical about a bowl of soup on a cold day. 

Its steamy warmth seems to chase away the chill, wrapping us in comfort from the inside out. Soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience, a simple pleasure that connects us across cultures and generations. 

As winter wraps its frosty fingers around us, our thoughts turn to this humble yet mighty dish. From the rich, hearty flavors of a chunky stew to the soothing broth of a clear soup, each spoonful feels like a warm embrace. But what exactly is it about soup that makes it the ultimate cold-weather food? Is it the way it warms our hands and hearts, or perhaps the endless variety that caters to every taste and occasion? 

Let's dive into the heartwarming world of soups, exploring the top reasons why this beloved dish holds a special place in our kitchens and our lives, especially when the mercury drops.

1. Warming from the Inside Out

The most immediate benefit of diving into a bowl of soup, such as a rich and hearty ham bone soup, is the warmth it brings. The process of simmering a ham bone with vegetables and seasonings not only fills the kitchen with inviting aromas but also results in a soup that warms you from the inside out. Learning how to make ham bone soup exemplifies the simplicity and resourcefulness of soup-making, utilizing ingredients that are often on hand. This warmth isn't just physical; it's also a psychological comfort, reminding us of home, care, and simpler times.

2. Nutritional Powerhouse

Soups are incredibly nutritious, often packed with a variety of vegetables, lean meats, beans, and grains that contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet. A well-crafted soup can be a complete meal, offering a balanced array of nutrients. For instance, chicken noodle soup provides protein, vegetables offer vitamins, and noodles add carbohydrates for energy. Furthermore, soups are hydrating, thanks to their high water content, which is especially beneficial during the dry, cold months when people are more susceptible to colds and flu. The broth can help boost immunity and facilitate hydration, making soups a smart choice for maintaining health in winter.

3. Versatility and Variety

One of the most appealing aspects of soup is its versatility. There's a soup to match every taste preference and dietary requirement—from thick, creamy chowders to light and brothy soups filled with noodles or rice. This versatility allows soups to cater to various culinary traditions and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, like a Mexican tortilla soup, or something comforting, like a traditional potato soup, there's always a recipe to satisfy your craving. Moreover, soups can easily be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or keto diets, making them a universally appealing dish.

4. Comfort in Every Spoonful

Beyond their physical warmth and nutritional benefits, soups are synonymous with comfort. A bowl of soup has the power to lift spirits on a dreary day and provide solace when we're feeling under the weather. This comfort is deeply rooted in our associations with soup and care—often, soups are what we turn to when we need a taste of home or a hug in a bowl. The act of sitting down to a warm bowl of soup encourages us to slow down, savor the moment, and nourish not just our bodies but also our souls. It's this emotional connection to soup that elevates it from a mere dish to an experience.

5. Easy to Make and Economical

Soup-making is an art that doesn't require fine culinary skills. Most soups begin with a simple base of broth, vegetables, and a protein source, making them an accessible option for cooks of all levels. Furthermore, soups can be an economical way to feed a family, as they can be made in large quantities and often utilize pantry staples or leftovers. A pot of soup can stretch ingredients further, providing meals throughout the week at a low cost per serving. This economical aspect, combined with the ease of preparation, makes soup an attractive option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

6. Perfect for Sharing and Healing

Soup has a unique way of bringing people together, serving as a symbol of love and care. In many cultures, preparing and sharing a pot of soup is considered an act of communal bonding, whether it's a family gathering or comforting a friend in need. Moreover, soups like the timeless chicken soup have been dubbed "nature's penicillin," renowned for their healing properties. The steamy broth helps hydrate and soothe the throat, while the warmth can alleviate congestion. Soups packed with garlic, ginger, and other anti-inflammatory ingredients can also provide a natural boost to the immune system, making them a go-to remedy during the cold and flu season.

7. Freezable for Future Meals

One of the practical benefits of soup is its ability to be made in large batches and stored for later use. Freezing soup ensures that you always have a quick, homemade meal on hand, perfect for busy days or when cooking just isn't feasible. This aspect of soup not only highlights its convenience but also its role in reducing food waste, allowing cooks to use up leftover ingredients in a nutritious way. Properly stored, most soups can last in the freezer for months, retaining their flavor and nutritional value, making them a staple in inefficient meal planning and preparation.

8. A Canvas for Culinary Creativity

Soups provide a fantastic opportunity for culinary experimentation. They are forgiving in nature, allowing for adjustments and innovations in ingredients, spices, and herbs. This openness invites cooks of all skill levels to play with flavors, incorporating a variety of vegetables, proteins, and grains to create something uniquely satisfying. From adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess to a pinch of chili flakes for heat, the possibilities are endless. Furthermore, soups can easily embrace international cuisines, introducing palates to new tastes and traditions, making each spoonful a discovery.

Conclusion

Soup, in its simplicity and depth, embodies the essence of comfort food. It warms, heals, and brings people together, serving as a reminder of the joy found in simple pleasures. With its versatility, nutritional benefits, and the ability to encapsulate seasons and traditions, soup holds a cherished place in our culinary hearts. Whether shared among friends, used as a canvas for creativity, or enjoyed in solitude for its comforting embrace, soup remains an unparalleled choice for cold-weather nourishment. As we embrace the colder months, let us remember the humble bowl of soup - a dish that nourishes the body, delights the palate and soothes the soul.

15 Comforting Chowder Recipes to Warm You Up on a Cold Day

Chowder is a delicious and hearty soup that is perfect for a cold day. It is made with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, vegetables, and broth. There are many different types of chowder, but some of the most popular include clam chowder, lobster chowder, and corn chowder.

Chowder is a great way to use up leftover seafood or vegetables. It is also a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. Chowder is a filling and satisfying soup that is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

Here are 15 comforting chowder recipes that you are sure to love:

 

Smoked Haddock Chowder by Christina’s Cucina

Vegan Corn Chowder by Home Cooked Roots

Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder by Eat Love Eats

Sweet Corn and Turkey Chowder by Greedy Girl Gourmet

Portuguese Red Clam Chowder by Fearless Eating

Cheesy Tuna Chowder by Two Lucky Spoons

Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder by Kelly Neil

Dairy Free Ham and Potato Chowder by I Heart Umami

Creamy Clam Chowder with Chorizo  by A Tasty Kitchen

Smoked Salmon Chowder by The Good Hearted Woman

Ham and Corn Chowder by Dinner at the Zoo

Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder by Seasoned Greeting

Bacon Potato Corn Chowder by Cooking For My Soul

Easy Roasted Corn Chowder by White Kitchen Red Wine

Kraft Dinner Cheese Chowder by Sweet Recipes

Tips

Here are a few tips for making chowder:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
• Don't overcook the seafood.
• Add the cream, milk, or half-and-half at the end of cooking so that it doesn't curdle.
• Season the chowder to taste.
• Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls.

Enjoy!

Find more favorite recipes here:

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Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: Panera Copycat

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes hold as much sway as a hearty bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. The creamy, cheesy concoction is a soothing balm for the soul, especially during the chilly months of winter. While traditional methods of preparing broccoli cheddar soup can be time-consuming, the Instant Pot offers a quick and convenient solution, allowing you to whip up this beloved dish in a fraction of the time.

The Instant Pot Advantage

The Instant Pot, is a versatile multi-cooker which has revolutionized home cooking, particularly for those seeking convenience and efficiency. Its pressure cooking function significantly reduces cooking time, making it ideal for preparing dishes that would otherwise require hours of simmering. In the case of broccoli cheddar soup, the Instant Pot can transform raw ingredients into a delectable soup in a matter of minutes.

A Symphony of Flavors

The essence of broccoli cheddar soup lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The sweetness of broccoli, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the subtle aromatics of onions and garlic come together to create a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and invigorating. The Instant Pot method preserves these delicate flavors, ensuring that every spoonful delivers a burst of culinary delight.

A Culinary Adventure

Making broccoli cheddar soup in the Instant Pot is an effortless culinary adventure. Simply sauté some onions and garlic, add chopped broccoli, vegetable broth, and your favorite seasonings, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. Once the cooking cycle is complete, you'll be greeted with a pot of perfectly cooked broccoli and fragrant broth.

A Touch of Indulgence

The final step in creating this culinary masterpiece involves the addition of cheese. Shredded cheddar cheese is the traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with different varieties, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a unique twist on flavor. The cheese melts into the soup, creating a rich and creamy texture that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

A Versatile Delight

Broccoli cheddar soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, and even a dollop of sour cream can elevate the soup experience. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight meal or a cozy indulgence on a chilly day, Instant Pot broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect solution.

So, embrace the convenience and culinary magic of the Instant Pot and embark on a journey to create this comforting classic. With its symphony of flavors, effortless preparation, and endless versatility, Instant Pot broccoli cheddar soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

1 cup of broccoli florets

1 cup of carrots, chopped

1 small  white onion, diced

1 package of cream cheese

2 cups of chicken broth

2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Chop broccoli, carrots and onions into smaller chunks and add them to the instant pot.

Add chicken broth.

Add the block of cream cheese.

Place the lid on the instant pot and seal.

Use the manual setting, and set the timer for 4 minutes.

It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.

When the timer sounds, use the quick release valve.

Remove lid, add cheddar cheese and stir.

Turn the instant pot to saute.

Allow the soup to cook for about 3 minutes, but keep an eye on it and do not let it boil!

Turn the instant pot off, serve immediately.

Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before stirring in an airtight container in the fridge.

Serves 6

I love to serve this on a cold winter day as it delivers stick to the ribs comfort in just a few minutes of time. 

While this is not an exact copy of the always popular Panera option, it is very close, and maybe even better than the original!

You might also want to try my copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe.

This copycat crumbl cinnamon toast crunch cookie recipe is perfect for dessert tonight.