Instant Pot Cajun Potato Soup: A Spicy, Creamy Comfort Food
Spicy, creamy, and loaded with hearty potatoes, Instant Pot Cajun Potato Soup is the perfect dish to warm your soul on a chilly day. The Instant Pot makes it quick and effortless, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful soup bursting with Southern charm. Each spoonful offers a satisfying balance of tender potatoes, smoky seasonings, and a gentle kick of Cajun spices that linger pleasantly on the palate.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, lunch gatherings, or meal prep, this soup combines convenience with authentic flavor. With the pressure-cooking magic of the Instant Pot, you get deep, melded flavors in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. From the comforting aroma of sautéed onions and garlic to the creamy, dreamy texture achieved with milk and cheese, this Cajun Potato Soup delivers a satisfying experience that is both hearty and indulgent.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | 5 medium, peeled & diced | 650 |
| Andouille sausage (optional) | 8 oz, sliced | 500 |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | 45 |
| Bell pepper | 1 medium, chopped | 25 |
| Celery | 2 stalks, chopped | 20 |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | 13 |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | 60 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tsp | 15 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | 455 |
| Green onions (optional, for garnish) | 2 tbsp | 2 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Sauté aromatics and sausage
Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a small amount of oil, then cook the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened. If using andouille sausage, add it now and sauté for 2–3 minutes to release flavor. - Add potatoes and seasonings
Stir in diced potatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix to coat the potatoes evenly with the spices. - Add broth and pressure cook
Pour in chicken broth, ensuring potatoes are covered. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes. - Release pressure and blend
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture. - Add cream and cheese
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed. - Serve hot
Ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions or extra Cajun seasoning for added flavor.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Make it vegetarian: Omit sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Add more spice: Increase Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Cheese variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda for a smoky twist.
- Extra veggies: Include corn, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~415 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Calcium | 25% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty rolls for dipping.
- Top with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon, or green onions.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
Instant Pot Cajun Potato Soup: A Spicy, Creamy Comfort Food
6
servings10
minutes15
minutes415
kcalIngredients
5 medium russet potatoes, peeled & diced
8 oz andouille sausage (optional), sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Cook onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic in a small amount of oil until softened. Add sausage (if using) and sauté 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in diced potatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth, making sure potatoes are covered. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
- Perform a quick release. Partially blend the soup with an immersion blender, leaving some potato chunks.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions or extra Cajun seasoning.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh russet potatoes and a good-quality Cajun seasoning. Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a creamier texture, partially blend the soup with an immersion blender while leaving some potato chunks.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can cook it on the stovetop. Simmer the potatoes, vegetables, and broth in a large pot until tender, then add cream and cheese. Stir well to combine and achieve a creamy texture.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like corn, carrots, or bell peppers for more flavor.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Increase the Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper, hot paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
4. Can I freeze Instant Pot Cajun Potato Soup?
Yes. Cool the soup completely, then store in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little milk or cream if it becomes too thick.
5. Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes. Frozen diced potatoes work well; just reduce cooking time slightly and check for doneness.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Cajun Potato Soup delivers bold, comforting flavors in a creamy, hearty bowl. With tender potatoes, smoky spices, and the ease of pressure cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Its versatility allows you to customize spice levels, add vegetables, or experiment with cheeses, making it a crowd-pleaser for every occasion. Experience the magic of this quick, flavorful soup and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
