Name: Instant Pot Cauliflower Soup
Prep time: PT-486886H17M13S
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: PT-486886H17M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 pounds cauliflower florets; 8 cloves fresh garlic; ½ yellow onion, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 4 ounces sharp cheddar, grated; Optional toppings: green onion, sour cream, additional cheddar, broccoli florets

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

A creamy and comforting soup made easy in your Instant Pot. Rich with cauliflower, garlic, onions, and cheese, it’s the perfect warm-up for chilly days or cozy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is simplicity itself: dump the ingredients into your Instant Pot, let it do the work, and blend until velvety smooth. It’s rich and flavorful, packed with garlic and cheddar, and adaptable to your taste interests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2.5 pounds cauliflower florets
8 cloves fresh garlic
½ yellow onion, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces sharp cheddar, grated

Topping Options:
Green onion
Sour cream
Additional cheddar
Broccoli florets

Directions

Prep the Cauliflower and Aromatics
Chop the cauliflower into even florets.
Cook in the Instant Pot
Add cauliflower, garlic, chopped onion, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes (plus time to build and release pressure)
Blend the Soup
Use a quick release to release pressure. Once safe, open the lid and drop in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Use an immersion blender to blend until completely smooth.
Serve with Toppings
Serve hot with your choice of garnishes—green onion, extra cheddar, sour cream, or broccoli florets—and enjoy immediately.

Servings And Timing

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes at pressure + ~10 minutes for pressure build + release
Total Time: Around 23 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth .
Cheesier Version: Stir in extra sharp cheddar or Parmesan just before serving.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of smoked paprika while blending.
Lower Dairy: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or omit it entirely.
Loaded Style: Top with crumbled bacon or roasted cauliflower for texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months .
Reheating: Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.

FAQs

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

Use a countertop blender, blending in batches. Be careful—hot liquids expand!

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes. Use vegetable broth and omit cream cheese and cheddar, or swap in vegan cheese or cashew cream.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Absolutely. Frozen florets can be used directly—just check the texture and blend as usual.

How can I thicken or thin the soup?

For thicker soup, use less broth. For a thinner consistency, add extra broth or milk after blending.

Can I sauté the onion and garlic first?

Yes. Use the sauté setting to soften aromatics before pressure cooking for richer flavor.

Is it safe to quick release after cooking?

Yes—for this recipe quick release is fine. Be careful of steam and make sure the valve clears before opening.

What alternative toppings work well?

Try croutons, crispy chickpeas, sunflower seeds, fresh herbs, or a swirl of pesto.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes—store it fully blended in the fridge, then reheat when ready. Stir in more broth if needed.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can I add other veggies?

Definitely. Try stirring in cooked broccoli, carrots, or roasted red peppers before blending.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Cauliflower Soup is fast, creamy, and customizable. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a comforting and nourishing meal that fits any occasion—perfect for busy evenings or meal prep. Enjoy and stay cozy!

Ezabella