On a chilly evening, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup to lift your spirits. Recently, I found myself craving something comforting yet healthy, and that’s when I discovered my Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup. It’s a delightful blend of rich, savory flavors from crispy bacon and nourishing lentils, accented by a bounty of colorful veggies. This soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits perfectly into a balanced diet, offering high fiber and low calories without sacrificing flavor.
As the aroma of simmering herbs fills your kitchen, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together in your Instant Pot. It’s the ideal recipe for those evenings when you want a fulfilling meal with minimal fuss. The combination of ingredients will surprise you, making for a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether serving it for family or creating leftovers for lunch, this soup never fails to impress. Ready to dive into this delectable recipe? Let’s get started!
Why is Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup is the ultimate remedy for chilly nights, providing a hearty meal that warms both body and soul.
Packed with Flavor: Crispy bacon enhances the rich taste, while fresh vegetables contribute vibrant flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
High in Fiber, Low in Calories: Enjoy a filling bowl that supports your healthy eating goals without the guilt.
Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, this recipe transforms into a time-saving dish, ready in just under an hour.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to switch ingredients; swap bacon for smoked sausage or toss in your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Not only does it store well, but it delights as leftovers, making your future meals effortless!
Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Dried Green Lentils – A nutritious foundation that offers protein and fiber; rinse thoroughly before use to eliminate dust.
• Bacon – Provides savory depth and umami flavor; swap for turkey bacon if you’re seeking a lighter option.
• Minced Garlic – Boosts the flavor profile; for best results, use fresh garlic.
• Chopped Onion – Adds sweetness and builds the aromatic base of the soup.
• Chopped Leek – Brings a subtle onion flavor; more onion can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• Chopped Carrots – Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color; parsnips make for a unique alternative.
• Chopped Celery – Adds crunch and an earthy hint; adjust quantity based on your preference.
• Chopped Green Beans – Introduces freshness and texture; swap with spinach for a different nutrient mix.
For Flavor and Seasoning
• Broth – The essential liquid base; chicken or vegetable broth works wonderfully, depending on your dietary needs.
• Fresh Thyme – Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth; dried thyme can be used if necessary.
• Salt and Pepper – Key for enhancing the overall flavor; feel free to adjust to suit your palate.
How to Make Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup
- Cook the Bacon: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add chopped bacon. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped leek, onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until vegetables become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your soup.
- Mix in Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed lentils, chopped green beans, celery, carrots, broth, and fresh thyme. Make sure everything is well combined; the colorful medley adds both taste and nutrition!
- Set to Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the pressure valve is set to sealing. Select the “Soup” function and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. You’ll love how easy it is!
- Release Pressure: After the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes. Then, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid, and admire your delicious creation!
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove any thyme sprigs before serving. It’s now ready to warm your soul!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this cozy recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Smoky Sausage: Swap bacon for smoked sausage for a deeper, smoky flavor that will elevate your soup experience.
- Veggie Delight: Replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative that still packs in flavor.
- Legume Mix: Blend in some black beans or chickpeas instead of lentils for a different texture and nutrient profile to delight your palate.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to heat things up, perfect for those who enjoy a spicy soup!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano to give your soup a delightful twist in flavor and aroma.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving for a creamy richness that complements the soup beautifully.
- Root Veggie Swap: Try replacing carrots with parsnips or sweet potatoes for an earthy sweetness that adds depth to your dish.
- Zesty Lemon: Finish each bowl with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, making this comforting soup feel fresh and invigorating.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup
- Rinse Lentils: Ensure lentils are thoroughly rinsed to avoid any gritty texture in your soup. This small step makes a huge difference.
- Bacon Choices: Using regular bacon contributes rich flavor, but turkey bacon is a great low-calorie alternative if you’re looking for a lighter dish.
- Vegetable Flexibility: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies; just keep the ratios similar to avoid changing the soup’s overall texture.
- Cooking Time Adjustments: Different lentils have varying cooking times—be mindful when using alternatives to green lentils, especially red lentils.
- Consistency Control: If your soup thickens too much while cooking, simply stir in additional broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season to Taste: Always taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors of your Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (including the sautéed bacon, onions, leeks, garlic, and vegetables) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The dried lentils can be added just before cooking to avoid mushiness, ensuring they remain al dente. When ready to serve, just combine the prepped ingredients with broth in your Instant Pot and cook on the “Soup” setting for 10 minutes. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-friendly bags or containers and refrigerate for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them with the date.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftover Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Make-Ahead Tip: Consider making this soup ahead of time for busy weekday meals; it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup?
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup that invites delightful pairings to create a well-rounded meal.
- Crusty Bread: This classic companion soaks up the rich broth and adds a satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping and enjoying every last drop.
- Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, enhancing the meal’s balance.
- Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts complement the soup’s flavors while adding depth and nutrition to your plate.
- Cheesy Garlic Toast: Indulge with a buttery, garlicky toast topped with melted cheese—it’s the ultimate comfort addition that pairs nicely with the savory soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs not only boosts the protein content but also adds a refreshing touch to counter the soup’s richness.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a touch of sweetness to your meal, offering a delightful end to the comforting experience of the soup.
- Wine Pairing: A light and fruity white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s savory notes while enhancing the overall dining experience.
Embrace these pairings to elevate your Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup into a memorable meal!
Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing dried green lentils?
Absolutely! When selecting dried green lentils, pick those that are uniform in color and free from any small stones or debris. Look for lentils that are firm and have a good sheen; avoid any that appear shriveled or dull. Rinsing them before cooking is crucial—this not only cleans but also ensures a smoother texture.
How long can I store leftovers of the Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup?
Very! You can store your delicious leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches! Just ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze the Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup? If so, how?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. To freeze, portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion, and label with the date. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat!
What should I do if the soup thickens too much?
Not a problem! If you find that your Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup is thicker than you’d like after cooking, simply add a bit more broth or water. Stir it well and simmer on low heat for a few minutes until you reach your desired consistency. Perfectly adjustable!
Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! The Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup can be easily modified to suit various dietary needs. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply replace the bacon with smoked tofu or omit it completely. For those with gluten allergies, ensure your broth is gluten-free. Always check labels for any potential allergens!
How can I enhance the flavor of my soup even more?
Absolutely! To amp up the flavors, consider using fresh herbs like rosemary or replacing dried thyme with fresh thyme for a more aromatic experience. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce right before serving to elevate the taste. Feel free to experiment—the more, the merrier!
Hearty Instant Pot Bacon Lentil Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and cook the chopped bacon for about 5 minutes until crispy.
- Add the chopped leek, onion, and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, chopped green beans, celery, carrots, broth, and fresh thyme until combined.
- Close the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing. Select 'Soup' and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for the remainder.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove thyme sprigs before serving.
