Instant Pot Christmas Soup

Instant Pot Christmas Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and creamy cheese, making it a perfect choice for festive occasions or cozy family dinners. Its ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones while still serving a delicious meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this soup will undoubtedly impress with its vibrant colors and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of tomatoes and melty cheese creates a rich, creamy taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or as a comforting weeknight meal.
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one pot, this recipe minimizes dishes and maximizes flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add more vegetables or proteins based on your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To make Instant Pot Christmas Soup, having the right tools is essential for a smooth cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking time while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Essential for efficiently chopping ingredients like basil and tomatoes.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

A red and green tomato and cheese soup that is like velveeta-rotel dip in a soup form. A dump-and-go soup to feed a crowd!

For the Base

• 7 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can Italian stewed tomatoes with juice
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel Original tomatoes with green chilies with the juice

For the Pasta

• 1 (12 oz) bag of tri-color spiral-shaped pasta

For the Creamy Finish

• 16 ounces Velveeta cheese
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 Tbsp fresh basil
• Pinch of cayenne pepper

How to Make Instant Pot Christmas Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and chop any fresh items like basil. Make sure everything is ready for easy access.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot

Add all the base ingredients into the Instant Pot:
1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
2. Add petite diced tomatoes, Italian stewed tomatoes, and Rotel tomatoes with their juices.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Cheese

1. Stir in the tri-color spiral pasta.
2. Cube the Velveeta cheese and add it to the pot along with the milk.

Step 4: Season Your Soup

Sprinkle in fresh basil and a pinch of cayenne pepper, mixing well to combine all flavors.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Seal your Instant Pot lid. Cook on high pressure for about 8 minutes. Once done, carefully release the pressure according to your Instant Pot’s instructions.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once cooked, stir your soup well before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy this flavorful Instant Pot Christmas Soup with family and friends!

How to Serve Instant Pot Christmas Soup

Serving Instant Pot Christmas Soup is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. This vibrant and creamy dish is perfect for family dinners or festive celebrations. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting soup.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the soup perfectly.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp texture and balances the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens can refresh your palate between bites.

Top with Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for an aromatic finish.
• Shredded Cheese: Add a handful of shredded cheese for an extra cheesy experience.

Serve with Crackers

• Cheese Crackers: Crunchy cheese crackers provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup.
• Herbed Crackers: Seasoned crackers can enhance the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Christmas Soup

Perfecting your Instant Pot Christmas Soup ensures every bowl is delicious and satisfying. Here are some helpful tips to make it even better.

• Bold Flavors: Enhance the flavor by adding more spices like garlic powder or onion powder to suit your taste.
• Creamier Texture: For an even creamier texture, consider adding more cheese or a splash of heavy cream during cooking.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a brighter flavor profile.
• Pasta Cooking Tips: If you prefer al dente pasta, add it halfway through the cooking process instead of at the beginning.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Christmas Soup

When serving Instant Pot Christmas Soup, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic flavor make for a delightful addition.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a flavorful bite-sized treat.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your table.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a comforting sweetness that pairs well with the soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create an irresistible side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Instant Pot Christmas Soup can be delightful, but there are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Ignoring the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can impact the flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken or vegetable broth for the best taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushiness. Cook it until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the soup.
• Not seasoning adequately: Skipping herbs and spices can make your soup bland. Be sure to season with fresh basil and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a flavor boost.
• Forgetting to stir: Failing to stir before cooking can result in uneven cooking. Give your ingredients a good mix before sealing the lid.
• Not adjusting for texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adjusting the amount of cheese or adding more pasta. Customize it to your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh and prevent odors from spreading.

Freezing Instant Pot Christmas Soup

• Duration: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Instant Pot Christmas Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Christmas Soup?

Instant Pot Christmas Soup is a creamy, tomato-based soup filled with flavorful ingredients like cheese and pasta, perfect for holiday gatherings.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Christmas Soup?

The prep time is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes just a few minutes once pressure builds up.

Can I customize Instant Pot Christmas Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or adjust the types of cheese based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of Instant Pot Christmas Soup?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit any meat products while keeping all other ingredients intact.

How do I ensure my pasta doesn’t get mushy?

Add the pasta towards the end of cooking or cook it separately and mix it into the soup before serving.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Christmas Soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. This comforting dish will surely impress your guests during any festive gathering!