Quick Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe

I always crave something substantial and warming when the weather turns crisp, and this soup hits the spot perfectly every time. The earthy combination of lentils and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that usually takes hours to achieve on the stove.

Using a pressure cooker makes this Instant Pot Lentil Soup incredibly fast without sacrificing that slow-simmered taste. You get a nourishing bowl filled with tender vegetables and rich spices in a fraction of the traditional cooking time.

What Makes This Instant Pot Lentil Soup a Keeper

The blend of smoked paprika and cumin gives the broth a savory richness that keeps me coming back for second helpings. It feels like a hug in a bowl, especially when paired with the hearty texture of green lentils.

You will appreciate how this recipe requires minimal active cooking time, leaving the pressure cooker to do all the heavy lifting. It is the definition of a fuss-free meal that still tastes like you spent all afternoon in the kitchen.

Another reason I adore this Instant Pot Lentil Soup is its incredible versatility for meal prep since the flavors actually improve the next day. It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it a lifesaver for busy future weeknights.

Craving more hearty comfort food? My Minestrone Soup Recipe brings that same satisfying warmth, and the Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe has become a regular in my meal rotation.

Everything You Need for Perfect Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to sauté the vegetables and build a rich flavor foundation.
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: This classic mirepoix trio provides aromatic sweetness and essential texture to the base of the soup.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a necessary punch of savory flavor that complements the earthy lentils.
Spices: A blend of dried thyme, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper creates a warm and slightly smoky profile.
Vegetable Broth: I recommend low sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your Instant Pot Lentil Soup.
Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes: These add a smoky sweetness and acidity that balances the hearty legumes perfectly.
Lentils: Dry green or brown lentils are best here because they hold their shape well during pressure cooking.
Fresh Spinach: Stirring in chopped fresh spinach at the end adds bright color and a boost of nutrients.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese is optional but adds a wonderful salty finish to each bowl.

My Method for Instant Pot Lentil Soup

1. Press the Sauté button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil, then add the onion, carrots, and chopped celery. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes and rinsed lentils to the pot, stirring to combine everything well. Secure the lid, seal the valve, and set to High Pressure for 8 minutes.
4. When the timer beeps, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully venting the remaining steam. Open the lid and stir in the fresh chopped spinach until it wilts, then serve warm with parmesan if desired.

My Best Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Lentil Soup

If you want to brighten up the earthy flavors, I highly recommend adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. The acidity cuts through the richness of the lentils and vegetables for a perfectly balanced bite.

Make sure to pick over and rinse your dried lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or small stones before adding them to the pot. I prefer using green or brown lentils for this Instant Pot Lentil Soup because they hold their shape well under pressure.

For a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to pulse the soup a few times after cooking. This technique creates a creamy texture while still leaving plenty of whole lentils and veggies for satisfying bites.

How to Serve This Instant Pot Lentil Soup

I love pairing this hearty soup with a slice of crusty sourdough bread or warm garlic knots to soak up every drop of the savory broth. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing also offers a crisp contrast to the warm, soft textures of the soup.

You can also top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a restaurant-quality finish. These simple garnishes elevate the humble Instant Pot Lentil Soup into a meal that feels special enough for guests.