Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to weeknight meals? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, and its versatility extends far beyond making perfect rice and tender meats. This powerful electric pressure cooker is a soup-making machine, capable of transforming simple ingredients into rich, satisfying bowls of goodness in mere minutes.
In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and delicious Instant Pot soup recipes that are sure to become staples in your busy kitchen. From creamy chicken and wild rice soups to spicy Thai coconut soups and hearty lentil and vegetable stews, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s dive into the world of pressure-cooked soups!
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and let it warm through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup
Warm up with a comforting pot of Italian-inspired minestrone soup, made easy and quick in the Instant Pot! This recipe combines tender vegetables, canned goods, and aromatic spices for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as kidney beans, carrots, celery, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add mixed vegetables, broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open lid and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Soup
This Spicy Thai Coconut Soup recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Thai soup. With the combination of coconut milk, lemongrass, and chilies, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Thai red chili flakes
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, lemongrass, cumin, curry powder, and chili flakes; cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
2. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
3. Add bell peppers and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of tender beef and nutty barley in this classic soup recipe. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef, vegetables, barley, broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This creamy soup is a twist on the classic baked potato, loaded with cheese, sour cream, and chives. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal to warm up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Chopped chives for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Tomato Basil Soup
Quickly whip up a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup with the ease of your Instant Pot. This flavorful and aromatic recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, packed with tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, then add diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream for added richness.
5. Add tortilla strips and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made with red lentils, a medley of vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Start your day with a comforting bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup, packed with nutritious broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, broth, milk or cream, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until broccoli is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Pot Pho
Pho is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup that’s now easily achievable at home with the help of your Instant Pot. This recipe yields a rich, flavorful broth and tender beef, all in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef bones (preferably oxtail or short ribs)
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon ground cloves
– 1 star anise pod
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup rice noodles, cooked and set aside
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef bones in oil.
2. Add beef broth, water, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and ginger. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Quick-release the pressure and add sliced beef. Cook on low pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Open the lid and add cooked noodles. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
This classic soup recipe combines tender split peas, savory ham, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. With its ease of preparation and long shelf life, it’s an excellent addition to your meal planning repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine split peas, chicken broth, and diced ham. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until peas are tender.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until onion is translucent.
3. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup, perfect for a chilly evening. Rich in flavor and texture, it’s a delight to savor.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for 10 minutes or until the soup has reduced slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup
This timeless recipe is a staple for when you need a warm, comforting bowl of goodness to soothe your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, made easy and quick in the Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add squash and stir to coat with the mixture.
4. Pour in chicken broth and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Add heavy cream if desired; stir well.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pressure release)
Tuscan White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a classic Tuscan dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With the rich flavors of cannellini beans, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the soaked cannellini beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Instant Pot Corn Chowder
This recipe yields a rich and comforting corn chowder that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. With just the right balance of sweet corn, savory potatoes, and creamy goodness, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, frozen corn, chicken broth, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zuppa Toscana Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and creamy broth to create a deliciously comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped kale
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and garlic to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and chopped kale. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until kale is wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Black Bean Soup
This recipe for Instant Pot Black Bean Soup is a staple for any meal or gathering. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously comforting bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, bell pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on “High Pressure” for 30 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Instant Pot Black Bean Soup!
Chicken and Dumplings Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings soup, perfect for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and water to form a dough. Drop by spoonfuls onto the surface of the soup.
4. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot French Onion Soup
Elevate your soup game with this simplified recipe that yields a rich and flavorful French Onion Soup using your trusty Instant Pot. This comforting classic is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add sliced onions; cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add salt, pepper, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Ladle soup into bowls; top with grated cheese (if using). Garnish with thyme leaves (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 quick and delicious Instant Pot soup recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy chicken and wild rice to spicy Thai coconut, there’s something for everyone. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these soups are a lifesaver on hectic evenings. Try loaded baked potato, lentil and vegetable, or broccoli cheddar for a comforting treat. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like chicken noodle or adventurous like Tuscan white bean, this roundup has got you covered. Start cooking and cozy up with a bowl of goodness!
