Creamy Instant Pot Pickle Soup: A Surprising Comfort Bowl

Name: Creamy Instant Pot Pickle Soup: A Surprising Comfort Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 large Onion (Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation); 2 medium Carrots (Adds natural sweetness; cut uniformly); 2 stalks Celery (Optional; adds a fresh crunch); 2 cups Potatoes (Use Russets or Yukon Gold for creaminess); 1 cup Kosher Dill Pickles (The star of the show; avoid sweet varieties); 1/2 cup Pickle Juice (Enhances the soup’s tang); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Swap for vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 1 cup Whole Milk (Adds a creamy texture); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Provides delightful tang); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Thickens the soup nicely); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Balances the acidity of the pickles); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust to taste)

Published: February 10, 2026

by Clare

Why will you love Instant Pot Pickle Soup?

Unique Taste Experience: Dill pickles bring a tangy twist that transforms an ordinary soup into a sensational dish.
Quick & Easy Prep: Your Instant Pot cuts cooking time significantly, allowing you to enjoy this comforting bowl in just 30 minutes!
Hearty & Filling: Creamy potatoes and carrots create a satisfying texture that keeps hunger at bay.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Even pickle skeptics will be surprised at how delicious this soup is! It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, because this flavor deepens over time; just like my Roasted Veggie Soup recipe, it tastes even better the next day!

Instant Pot Pickle Soup Ingredients

Dive into the delightful flavors of Instant Pot Pickle Soup with these essential ingredients!

For the Base
• Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
• Carrots – Adds natural sweetness; uniform cutting ensures even cooking.
• Celery – Contributes a fresh crunch; optional but enhances texture.
• Potatoes – Forms the heartiness of the soup; use Russets or Yukon Gold for creaminess.

For the Flavor
• Kosher Dill Pickles – The star of the show, delivering a zingy twist; avoid sweet varieties for the best effect.
• Pickle Juice – Enhances the soup’s tang; adjust according to your pickles’ saltiness.
• Chicken Stock – Serves as the flavorful broth; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

For Creaminess
• Whole Milk – Adds a creamy texture; half-and-half or cream makes it even richer.
• Sour Cream – Provides that delightful tang; Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.

For Thickening
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup nicely; cornstarch is a good gluten-free substitute.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the pickles; adjust according to taste.

For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Just enough to season; sea salt brings extra flavor depth for your Instant Pot Pickle Soup!

How to Make Instant Pot Pickle Soup

Chop the onion, carrots, celery, pickles, and potatoes into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking, and creates a delightful texture throughout the soup.
Add the chopped vegetables to your Instant Pot. It’s advisable to layer them starting with the onions, as they will add a lovely aromatic base flavor.
Pour the chicken stock over the vegetables, ensuring they are well submerged. This creates a rich broth that enhances the soup’s overall flavor.
Season the vegetable mixture with sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the flavors, then secure the lid on the Instant Pot.
Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow it to do a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes for optimal texture.
Whisk together the whole milk, sour cream, and flour in a bowl until smooth. This mixture adds the creamy element to your soup and helps avoid lumps.
Stir the milk mixture into the soup after the pressure is released. Be sure to mix well, allowing it to combine beautifully with the broth.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Each spoonful will be a heartwarming delight!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of dill or a few extra sliced pickles for a beautiful garnish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Pickle Soup

Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful recipe to create your perfect bowl of soup!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and sour cream with coconut milk and cashew cream for a creamy vegan version.
Enjoy the unique flavors while keeping it plant-based!
Extra Veggie Boost: Add chopped spinach or kale for a nutritious green twist.
These leafy greens make each bite even more vibrant and wholesome!
Spicy Kick: Throw in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to add heat.
This variation will warm you up from the inside out, perfect for chilly nights!
Herb Infusion: Consider adding fresh dill or thyme to enhance the herby notes.
A sprinkle of these herbs right before serving will elevate your soup’s aroma!
Texture Twist: Fold in some cooked quinoa or wild rice for added texture and heartiness.
This shift not only makes the soup more filling but adds interesting flavors!
Pickle Variety: Experiment with different types of pickles like garlic or spicy varieties for a flavor twist.
Each type brings its own flair, turning a familiar dish into one filled with surprises!
Creamy Vegan Option: Use silken tofu blended with a bit of plant-based milk as a creamy alternative.
This option is perfect for those avoiding dairy but still wanting that luscious texture!
Noodle Addition: Incorporate cooked egg noodles or pasta for a delightful spin on the traditional soup.
These additions will make it feel like a comforting meal while still honoring the classic pickle flavor!

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Pickle Soup

• Perfect Vegetable Cuts: Make sure to chop the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes uniformly. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures a delightful texture throughout the Instant Pot Pickle Soup.

• Layering Matters: Always start by adding the onions first in your Instant Pot. This will create a sweet aromatic base that elevates the entire soup’s flavor.

• Adjust Pickle Juice: Before adding all the pickle juice, taste your mixture first. The saltiness of pickles can vary, so adjust the pickle juice accordingly for a balanced flavor.

• Whisking Technique: Combine milk, sour cream, and flour until smooth in a separate bowl. This step helps prevent lumps in your creamy soup, ensuring a silky texture.

• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing for a natural pressure release after cooking maintains the potatoes’ integrity and creates a comforting mouthfeel for your Instant Pot Pickle Soup.

• Garnish for Appeal: Don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. It brightens up the soup and adds a lovely visual contrast!

Storage Tips for Instant Pot Pickle Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld beautifully over time, making it even more enjoyable!

Freezer: Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Allow liquid expansion when freezing, so leave some space at the top.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warm.

Make-Ahead: To save time, prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate or freeze. It’s a delightful treat ready to brighten up your week!

What to Serve with Instant Pot Pickle Soup?

Cozy up with a bowl of warm goodness and create a delightful meal experience for your family and friends.

Hearty Sandwiches: A classic Reuben or turkey and Swiss sandwich pairs wonderfully, balancing creaminess with crunchy textures.
Butter Lettuce Salad: A light salad dressed with a mild vinaigrette adds freshness, cutting through the soup’s richness, making every bite refreshing.
Warm Crusty Bread: Serve with pumpernickel or marble rye, perfect for dipping and soaking up that creamy, tangy goodness from the soup.
Pickle-infused Deviled Eggs: These zesty little bites complement the pickle theme, enhancing the overall meal’s flavor while being a delightful starter.
Savory Cheese Platter: Create a selection of cheeses that pair well with jalapeño or dill cheeses; they add an unexpected culinary twist to your dining experience.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert with a hint of cinnamon helps round off the meal beautifully, providing a sweet contrast to your savory soup!

Instant Pot Pickle Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pickles for the soup?
Absolutely! Choose kosher dill pickles that provide the perfect tanginess without the added sweetness. Look for crisp pickles to ensure great texture in your soup; avoid those with dark spots or a soft texture.

What is the best way to store leftover Instant Pot Pickle Soup?
For storing, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, giving you a rich, comforting bowl waiting for you!

Can I freeze Instant Pot Pickle Soup?
Yes! You can freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top for liquid expansion as it freezes.

What should I do if the soup is too salty?
If your Instant Pot Pickle Soup turns out saltier than expected, try adding a potato. Simply peel it and chop it into pieces. Allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes; it absorbs some of the saltiness, balancing the flavors!

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Very! To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use plant-based milk and omit the sour cream, or replace it with a vegan yogurt alternative.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Instant Pot Pickle Soup?
You can add a splash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick! Alternatively, incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley just before serving can elevate the soup’s flavor profile.