Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion, diced; 4 thick slices cherrywood-smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon butter; 2.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1 cup water; 1.5 teaspoons garlic base (such as Better Than Bouillon® Roasted Garlic Base); 1.5 cups half-and-half; 0.5 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; 0.25 cup sliced green onions; ground black pepper to taste

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This delicious Instant Pot potato soup will be on your table in less than an hour. Its the perfect winter weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

1 yellow onion, diced
4 thick slices cherrywood-smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon butter
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 cup water (or broth)
1 teaspoons garlic base (such as Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base)
1 cups half-and-half (or milk/cream)
cup shredded Cheddar cheese
cup sliced green onions
Ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Saut' function. Add diced onion, bacon, and butter. Saut for 5-8 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the onion is soft. Once done, transfer the mixture to a small bowl.

Step 2: Add the peeled and chopped potatoes, water, and garlic base to the Instant Pot. Close and lock the lid. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 12 minutes. Allow the pressure to build, which will take about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3: Once the cooking time is complete, use the natural-release method to release pressure for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, carefully use the quick-release method to release any remaining pressure. Unlock the lid and open the pot.

Step 4: Mash the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot, leaving some chunks for texture, if you like. Stir in the bacon-onion mixture and the half-and-half until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook's Notes

If you prefer a thicker consistency, avoid adding extra liquid. For a thinner soup, add more broth or water.
The bacon provides enough saltiness for this recipe, so additional salt is not necessary.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Potato Soup

This hearty potato soup is satisfying on its own, but here are some delicious sides to consider:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Crusty Dutch Oven Bread
Green Salad

Explore our collection of side dishes for soup for even more tasty ideas.

How to Store Instant Pot Potato Soup

Store any leftover potato soup in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it either in the microwave or on the stove for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	342
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	47mg
Sodium	446mg
Total Carbohydrate	40g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Protein	12g
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	142mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	185mg

Note: Nutritional information is based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary based on your specific dietary needs.

Origin and History

The origins of potato soup trace back to the 18th century, when potato became a staple in Europe, particularly in Ireland. As the humble potato spread across the continent, recipes began to emerge, often featuring simple ingredients like leeks, cream, and potatoes. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that American variations of potato soup began to take shape, often featuring hearty additions like bacon, cheese, and sour cream. The "loaded" version of potato soup became popular in the U.S. during the 1980s, capitalizing on the popularity of baked potatoes loaded with toppings. The use of modern kitchen appliances like the Instant Pot has made making this comforting soup easier and quicker, allowing home cooks to enjoy it in less than an hour. This Instant Pot version of loaded baked potato soup has been embraced for its ability to cook everything to creamy perfection in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, all while maintaining the rich and hearty flavors that define this beloved dish.

Regional Variations

Potato soup, while universally loved, can vary significantly based on region. In the American South, for instance, the soup might be prepared with additional spices like paprika, while in the Midwest, it is often enriched with heavy cream and cheese. Some variations use different types of potatoes: while Yukon Gold is commonly preferred for its creamy texture, Russets are sometimes used for a fluffier consistency. The concept of loaded potato soup also varies. Some regions might add sour cream or different types of cheese (like gouda or parmesan), while others might include more regional toppings, such as fried onions or chili. The Instant Pot method is a more modern regional approach, especially popular in busy households looking for efficiency without compromising flavor.

What Sets It Apart

Compared to other potato soups, this "loaded" version stands out because it includes the rich flavors of smoked bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, offering a combination of smoky, savory, and creamy elements that elevate it from a simple potato soup to something special. Unlike traditional potato soup, which can sometimes be bland or thin in consistency, the Instant Pot method ensures a rich, creamy texture, and the addition of bacon provides a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. Additionally, many versions of potato soup are made on the stove, which takes more time to develop the flavors, whereas the Instant Pot simplifies the process significantly, cooking the soup in under an hour.

Where It's Served

Loaded baked potato soup is a popular dish in many American homes, especially during the colder months. It is commonly served in casual settings, like family dinners or as part of a comforting meal on a chilly evening. Its often found on the menu at restaurants that specialize in American comfort food, pubs, or even at cafes offering hearty lunch options. Additionally, it is a great choice for potlucks and gatherings, where its creamy, filling nature makes it a crowd-pleaser. The soup pairs wonderfully with crispy bread, such as a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty baguette, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and warming meal.

Interesting Facts

The potato is one of the most versatile vegetables in the world, and it has been a dietary staple for centuries. Its often used as a base for soups and stews due to its ability to absorb flavors and create a creamy texture when cooked.
The addition of bacon to potato soup is a nod to the American penchant for adding smoky, salty elements to rich dishes. Bacons popularity in soups has made it a common topping for various types of potato-based soups across the U.S.
Many people love to customize loaded baked potato soup, adding extra toppings like sour cream, jalapenos, or even chili. Its also common to make it with different cheeses, from sharp cheddar to creamy brie, to give it a unique twist.
The Instant Pot, which cooks this soup in record time, has become a kitchen revolution in many households. This multi-functional cooker has drastically changed how people prepare meals, making it possible to enjoy a creamy, flavorful potato soup without hours of simmering on the stovetop.

FAQ about Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Store your leftover potato soup in an airtight storage container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove when ready to serve.

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

If you prefer a thinner soup, add more liquid (water, chicken broth, or more half-and-half). If you like it thicker, simply mash more potatoes or reduce the liquid slightly while cooking.

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Russet potatoes. However, Yukon Gold potatoes give the soup a creamier and richer texture, which is why they are recommended in the recipe.

Yes, pre-cooked bacon works fine in this recipe. If you prefer a quicker option, you can use microwaveable bacon, but keep in mind that the texture of the bacon may not be as crispy.

If you don’t have garlic base (like Better Than Bouillon®), you can substitute with 1 to 2 teaspoons of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic. Just be sure to adjust according to your taste.

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool completely and store it in the fridge. The flavors will even improve after a day or two. Just reheat before serving.

To reduce the fat content, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or use a lower-fat version of half-and-half. You can also skip the bacon or use turkey bacon as a substitute.

Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for added flavor and nutrition. If you add vegetables, consider adjusting the cooking time to ensure they are cooked properly.

This soup is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Comments

Sue

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I got the link to this in my email today, and decided to try it for dinner tonight. I used Hormel Crumbled Bacon, since I keep that in the freezer, and just sautéed it up with the onion and butter. The recipe was easy and turned out great! I decided to add some cheese to it, as well as having it as a garnish, plus I added a little more salt. I mashed half of the potatoes, and that was perfect. My husband said the recipe was a keeper, and he’s a foodie, so that’s a big compliment! It’s definitely going in my recipe rotation. :)

SadBun9167

11/01/2023 01:07:00 PM

The recipe was excellent. After it was cooked I kind of panicked that there wouldn’t be enough to feed the family, so what I did was added chicken broth, and a bag of the instant baby red mashed potatoes. And it was fabulous. They gave it a better consistency too. Just kind of thickened up perfectly. I did double the bacon to start the recipe and it took a lot longer to cook the bacon and onions than expected, which gave the soup a browner coloring but the family loved it and said that it was the best potato soup they’ve ever had.

minaayindra

10/26/2021 06:42:08 PM

I loved the ease of prep, which not all Instant Pot recipes have. I did not have any garlic base so I used the equivalent amount in minced garlic, which provided a lovely garlic background without being overwhelming. My recommendation would be not to use such thick bacon next time because it just can't get crunchy enough. Just increase the amount of thinner bacon to 6-8 slices (even more if you're a bacon freak!) and you can fry it until it's very crispy. I made it again using fully cooked bacon that I microwaved for more than a minute with a paper towel on top, which worked fine. I know some purists would disagree with my suggestion that you can also used the fully cooked bacon pieces sold in bags- but they were great! Notice how many times I've had an excuse to make this by constantly changing the type of bacon! ;-) I used heavy cream in one version because we love the thick texture but half and half is a great addition if you want a few less calories. I think the biggest thing is to keep experimenting with what spices you want because it is very bland without them. I ended up using a blend called "Farm Dust" but I don't know if it is sold outside of PA. Some white pepper with a seasoned salt would probably be sufficient. I added a little sugar to my last batch and it provided a smoother taste. No matter what you choose, you're going to like this a LOT!

Vicki Danulevith Raffetto

01/30/2021 10:24:28 PM

Cold night here in New York so I wanted to give this recipe a try. This soup was amazing. I did double up the bacon, onions and butter though because we are lovers of bacon and onions. You might say our soup was really loaded!!! Lol. So delicious and filling. A keeper recipe for sure.

aubrilevens

11/23/2020 02:31:36 AM

This soup was incredible! The whole family of picky eaters loved it. I doubled the recipe and used the entire carton of half and half. I used the fat free version to slim the calories. The only change I made was to add more water as it was very thick. This recipe is definitely a keeper and perfect for those chilly nights when you want to snuggle on the couch with some yummy, and easy to make, soup.

RusticSquid8444

01/04/2025 12:56:54 AM

It was easy and delicious. I did add about a half cup more of the half & half because it was a little too thick.

Amanda Jones

01/10/2022 12:20:22 AM

It was very filling, and super yummy! I will probably use less onions next time, and more half and half. It had the consistency of loaded mashed potatoes, but was still delicious! I will also double the recipe. There are four of us and there was only enough for one bowl each. Still, all in all it’s yummy!

crystal

03/10/2024 11:43:20 PM

I had to double the half and half

Mark Adams

11/16/2020 02:12:11 AM

Cooking the bacon together with diced onions is a disaster. I had to dump the pot, clean it, and start over. Cook the bacon first, remove it, THEN cook the onion. I left the softened onion in the pot and cooked it in with the potatoes. This was a bit smoother than we prefer, so I'll adjust the cooking time on the potatoes. It was very tasty, once I got it figured out. I will be making this again.

Novice Tim

11/13/2024 05:26:36 PM

Very good. We did not have the garlic base so we went with garlic powder. That may explain why we thought it needed salt. I think you could add a few other flavors too perhaps. Consistency was very good too.

Jason Wells

11/16/2020 07:08:20 PM

Great recipe. Added extra liquid. Very thick as is. Everyone like it tho.

RV Living

02/14/2025 02:58:09 AM

Took too long. I'd skip the IP next time. I didn't like the texture of the Yukon Golds. However, it was a good soup for a cold night. Just not the potato soup I imagined.

Sharon Campbell

11/05/2024 12:56:56 AM

Loved every bite of it.

Elizabeth King

09/18/2024 03:58:57 PM

I’ll be making this every week.

Justin Edwards

02/29/2024 01:37:56 AM

Quick, satisfying, and full of flavor.

Susan

02/05/2021 04:11:32 PM

The bacon didn't get crispy but it still turned out excellent.

K W

01/02/2021 06:27:28 PM

Good

KatieC

12/29/2020 08:14:48 PM

This was super easy to make. My family loved it! Would be especially good on a cold winters day. Followed the directions exactly.

Jason Wells

11/16/2020 07:08:20 PM

Great recipe. Added extra liquid. Very thick as is. Everyone like it tho.

Crystal Gordon

11/13/2020 02:26:42 AM

Very good and loved that it was nice and thick. I added more bacon and doubled the recipe. Will definitely make again and have shared the recipe as well :)

Cook Time: 10 minutes