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Instant Pot Lentil Soup

  • Author: Ava Garrison
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes (including pressure build-up and release)
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a comforting, hearty dish packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors. Made with tender lentils, savory ground beef, and fresh vegetables, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The Instant Pot makes cooking effortless, locking in deep flavors while significantly reducing cooking time. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter dinner or a nutritious lunch option, this soup is sure to satisfy. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 cup lentils (green or brown, rinsed and drained)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups beef or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the beef: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  2. Add the aromatics: Stir in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Deglaze the pot: Pour in a splash of broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to remove any stuck bits.
  4. Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, beans, broth, water, and all seasonings (salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf).
  5. Pressure cook: Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to High Pressure, and cook for 15 minutes. Allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
  6. Adjust seasoning & serve: Remove the bay leaf, stir the soup, and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

SAVE THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST FOR LATER

Find it online: https://avacheflife.com/instant-pot-lentil-soup/