Easy Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Name: Easy Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk (almond, oat, or regular); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s be real: there’s something about a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup that just screams comfort, right? It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🌟 But what if I told you that you can whip up this delicious goodness in your Instant Pot in about 30 minutes? Yes, you heard right! So grab your trusty Instant Pot, and let’s jump into this easy recipe that’ll make you the culinary superstar of your kitchen.

Why Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You might be asking yourself, “Why broccoli cheddar?” Well, here’s the scoop! First, it’s super creamy and rich, making it utterly satisfying without needing a MasterChef degree to pull it off. Plus, it combines the health benefits of broccoli (hello, vitamins!) with the indulgent deliciousness of cheddar cheese. 😋 Basically, it’s a win-win situation.

A Quick Trip Down Memory Lane

I still remember the first time I tried broccoli cheddar soup. I was at this quaint little café, sipping a cup while my world felt like it was falling apart. And then, boom! One spoonful of that cheesy, velvety bliss, and suddenly everything felt alright. Now, while I might not be able to recreate the ambiance of that café, I can definitely recreate that soup at home—even better with fewer dishes thanks to my Instant Pot!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a straightforward list of what you need. Trust me; this soup is so easy that even your dog could probably make it—if they had opposable thumbs! 😂

2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded carrots
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk (use your favorite: almond, oat, or regular)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better!)
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Steps — Yes, It’s That Easy!

Let’s break this down step-by-step, shall we?

Step 1: Sauté Those Veggies

First things first, we need to get the party started. Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Toss in the butter, and let it melt while swirling it around like you’re some fancy chef on TV. Once melted, throw in the onion and garlic. Sauté those bad boys for about two minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Ahh… the smell! 😍

Step 2: The Broccoli & Carrot Invasion

Next, we add the star players: the broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Give them a good stir, mixing them with the onion and garlic. You can almost hear them say, “We’re ready to shine!”

Step 3: Broth Time

Now, pour in the vegetable broth. Bring out that flavor and let it party with the veggies. Stir everything together and get those flavors mingling. While you’re at it, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Pressure Cooker Magic

Close the lid and seal the valve. Set your Instant Pot to “Manual” on high pressure for about 5 minutes. Don’t worry; cooking under pressure is what the Instant Pot does best! You could say it’s like a big ol’ hug for your food.

Step 5: Release & Blend

Once that 5 minutes is up, carefully release the pressure. Just don’t be a hero—watch out for your fingers! 🥴 Open the lid and, using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s creamy and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a traditional blender (but do it in batches, or you’ll be wearing soup!).

Step 6: Time for Dairy — and Fun!

Now, let’s make this soup as cozy as a lion in a blanket. Stir in the milk and cheddar cheese until it melts into that delicious soup. Keep stirring until everything’s combined. You should see a wave of creamy happiness forming, and you might want to dive in right away. But hold your horses!

Step 7: Final Taste Check

Give it a taste. Does it need more salt? A dash more pepper? You’re the chef here, so make it perfect for your palate! It’s your soup; own it! 🤗

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

Now it’s time to serve! Ladle that beautiful broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Crispy croutons? Chopped chives? A sprinkle of paprika for a bit of a kick? The world (or your kitchen) is your oyster.

Tips for the Best Soup Ever

Even though this recipe is foolproof, here are a few pro tips to elevate your game:

Cheese Choices: Don’t just stick to standard cheddar. Try mixing it with Monterey Jack or Gruyere for unique flavors.
Broccoli Power: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some spinach or kale along with your broccoli for added nutrients. No one will know, and veggies make everything better!
Creamy Factor: For an even creamier texture, replace some of the milk with heavy cream or nut cream if you want to keep it dairy-free.

FAQs About Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day after the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge, and it’ll be ready whenever you are!

2. How do I store leftovers?
Place your cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last about 3-4 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready for round two!

3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! It can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to leave off the cheese until you reheat it. Consider it your meal prep superhero move!

4. What can I serve with this soup?
So many options! I love serving it with a crusty bread for dipping or a simple salad on the side if I want to pretend I’m being healthy. 😏

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—your very own Easy Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup masterpiece. You didn’t even break a sweat, and your taste buds are probably singing praises right now. Next time you feel the chill or just need a little pick-me-up, whip out this recipe! Now, go make that soup and let your Instant Pot work its magic while you kick up your feet and relax. You deserve it! 🍵✨