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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.