Irresistibly Creamy Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Published: January 30, 2026

by Clare

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Comforting and Creamy: Each spoonful of this soup offers an irresistible, velvety texture that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction.
Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time, perfect for busy nights!
Customizable Goodness: Tailor it to your taste by adding your favorite toppings—crispy bacon, fresh chives, or even a dollop of sour cream!
Crowd-Pleaser: Its hearty flavors ensure it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a fantastic family meal.
Nutrient Packed: Not only delicious, but you can also sneak in extra veggies like spinach or kale for a boost!

For even more delicious potato-inspired recipes, check out this Creamy Greek Yogurt Potato Salad!

Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Ingredients

• Get ready to create a cozy masterpiece!

For the Soup Base
• Russet Potatoes – The key to a creamy texture; Yukon Golds can be used for a different flavor.
• Butter – Adds richness; perfect for sautéing the onions.
• Onion – Essential for a flavorful soup base when sautéed until soft.
• Garlic – Boosts flavor; fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Chicken Broth – Creates a delightful liquid base; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Infuses creaminess and depth; substitute with homemade or dietary-friendly versions.
• Salt and Pepper – Crucial for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
• Milk – Stirred in after cooking for added creaminess; opt for dairy-free alternatives if needed.
• Flour – Used to thicken the soup; make a slurry with the milk before adding.

For the Flavor
• Cheddar Cheese – Provides a rich, cheesy flavor; use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
• Bacon – Adds a crunchy, savory finish; feel free to omit for a vegetarian dish.
• Green Onions/Chives – Perfect for garnish; parsley can be used as a substitute.
• Sour Cream – An optional topping for a tangy and creamy finish.

Now you’re all set to embark on this comforting culinary adventure with your Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup! Enjoy the warm flavors and delightful aromas that will fill your home and heart.

How to Make Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Prepare Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter until it starts to bubble and shimmer. This will create a rich base for your soup.
Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
Deglaze Pot: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits. This step adds depth to your soup.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cream of chicken soup, cubed russet potatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated.
Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, carefully release the steam quickly to keep the potatoes tender.
Make Slurry: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth, creating a thickening agent for your soup.
Add Slurry: Stir the slurry into the soup mixture while on sauté mode. This will start to turn your broth into a creamy delight.
Thicken Soup: Continue to cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.
Melt Cheese: Stir in the cheddar cheese until it completely melts and integrates into the soup, transforming it into an indulgent experience.
Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, fresh green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Optional: Sprinkle additional chives on top for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the russet potatoes, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure out the flour and keep it with your seasonings for easy access when you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to prepare, simply sauté the vegetables and follow the cooking steps as directed. Just remember to add the milk and cheese after pressure cooking for that creamy finish. By prepping these components ahead of time, you’ll find your weeknight dinner comes together smoothly, saving you precious moments to unwind!

How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the soup cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency of your Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Texture Tip: If the soup thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a little more milk or broth while reheating to achieve your desired creaminess again.

Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Feel free to get creative and tailor this soup to your personal taste, ensuring a unique dish every time!

Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a bold flavor twist.
Meat-Free Option: Replace bacon with smoked tofu or tempeh for a rich, vegetarian alternative.
Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach or kale at the end for a nutritious green addition.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who love some heat.
Dairy-Free: Swap cream of chicken soup with a plant-based version and use coconut milk for a creamy texture.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of tahini or almond butter for a unique nutty depth in the soup.
Sweetness Touch: Sprinkle in some corn or add carrots for a subtly sweet flavor profile.
Herbal Freshness: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic lift that brightens the dish beautifully.

With these variations, you’ll transform this beloved recipe into a different delight each time you prepare it!

What to Serve with Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

This delightful soup pairs perfectly with various sides to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Crusty Bread: Nothing beats dipping warm, crusty bread into this creamy soup for extra heartiness.
Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, velvety soup.
Garlic Bread Sticks: Their buttery flavor and crunch are a perfect match for scooping up the creamy soup.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a colorful and nutritious element that pairs beautifully with the soup’s flavor.
Fresh Herb Salad: A light salad with fresh herbs and a tangy vinaigrette can brighten each bite of your comforting dish.
Crispy Bacon Chips: If you love bacon, serve some extra crispy bacon on the side to amplify that savory goodness.
Apple Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of warm apple pie, contrasting the warmth of the soup.
Sparkling Water: A fizzy drink rejuvenates the palate, making it a delightful accompaniment to the creamy soup.

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Uniform Potato Size: Cut russet potatoes into consistent 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and avoid a gluey texture.
Add Dairy Last: Only incorporate milk and cheese after pressure cooking to achieve the best creamy texture in your Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Bacon Freshness: Keep bacon and green onions separate until just before serving to maintain their crunch and vibrant color in the soup.
Flavor Boosts: Don’t hesitate to customize with spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick, but start with moderation to avoid overpowering the dish.
Vegetable Variations: Consider adding leafy greens such as spinach or kale for added nutrition; just stir them in at the end.
Reheating Tips: If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup, as it may thicken in the fridge.

Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, russet potatoes are your best bet as they become fluffy when cooked. If you prefer a slightly waxier consistency, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a great substitute. Look for potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes.

How do I store leftovers of the soup?
Very simply! Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture if it thickens.

Can I freeze the Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Yes! You can freeze this comforting soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk or broth to bring back that lovely creaminess.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you like, don’t fret! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk while reheating and stir until you reach your desired consistency. Be sure to warm it over low heat to avoid scorching. This will help bring back that velvety texture you love.

Are there any dietary substitutions I can make for this soup?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon or use smoked tofu as a substitute. If you’re lactose intolerant, use dairy-free milk and cheese options. These simple swaps will still provide you with a deliciously creamy soup that everyone can enjoy.

Can my pets eat this soup?
It’s best to keep this soup away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and certain seasonings can be harmful to animals. However, if you want to treat your pets, consider making a plain version with just potatoes and broth, ensuring it’s safe for them.