Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup – Creamy, Comforting & Keto-Friendly!

Looking for a creamy, comforting, and nutrient-packed soup that’s ready in record time? This Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup is exactly what you need. With all the rich, cheesy goodness of loaded baked potatoes—but without the carbs—it’s the perfect low-carb comfort dish for chilly nights, meal prep, or a quick lunch.

Made with just a few simple ingredients and cooked in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker , this soup comes together in under 20 minutes and delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet , low-carb lifestyle , or simply love hearty soups, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a staple in your weekly rotation.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get cooking!

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Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup

This isn’t just any old vegetable soup—it’s a creamy, cheesy, bacon-loaded masterpiece made with real food ingredients that keep you full and satisfied longer.

Here’s why it stands out:

• 🥦 Low-carb & keto-approved : Made with cauliflower instead of potatoes.
• 🧀 Loaded with cheese and bacon : Adds richness and smoky crunch.
• 🍲 One-pot wonder : Cooks entirely in the Instant Pot—no extra dishes!
• ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes
• 🥣 Great for meal prep : Keeps well in the fridge or freezer
• 🧼 Easy cleanup : Just one pot needed

Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or already a fan of your Instant Pot, this loaded cauliflower soup will impress with its rich texture and satisfying depth of flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets (or 4 cups frozen)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or bone broth for extra nutrition)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Optional: Add cooked ground sausage or smoked ham for extra protein.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into small florets (about 1-inch pieces) or use pre-chopped frozen cauliflower.

Tip: Don’t over-chop the cauliflower—it should hold up slightly during cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode . Add a splash of oil or butter and cook the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the cauliflower and stir to coat in the aromatics.

Step 3: Add Broth and Pressure Cook

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure not to fill above the max line.

Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook mode for 5 minutes .

Let naturally release for 5–10 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.

Step 4: Blend Until Creamy

Use an immersion blender directly in the pot and blend until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer in batches and return to the pot afterward.

Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, then add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs as desired.

Step 5: Top and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with:

• Crumbled bacon
• Chopped green onions
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Extra cheese if you like

Enjoy every warm, savory spoonful of your Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup !

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~250 kcal
Total Fat	~20 g
Saturated Fat	~10 g
Cholesterol	~50 mg
Sodium	~600 mg
Total Carbs	~8 g
Dietary Fiber	~2.5 g
Net Carbs	~5.5 g
Protein	~10 g

Note: Values may vary based on brand of cheese, bacon, and broth used.

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Tips for the Best Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup

1. Use full-fat dairy – Ensures a rich, velvety texture.
2. Don’t overcook the cauliflower – It can become mushy; aim for tender but firm bites.
3. Blend carefully – Leave some chunks if you prefer texture variation.
4. Make ahead and reheat – Flavors intensify overnight; store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
5. Freeze individual portions – Great for meal prep or freezing leftovers.

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Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:

Vegan Option

Use coconut milk, vegan cheese, and coconut-based bacon bits.

Cheesy Chicken Cauliflower Soup

Shred in rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey for added protein.

Spicy Kick

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for heat.

Italian Style

Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.

Mushroom Cauliflower Bisque

Add sliced mushrooms while sautéing for earthy richness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this soup truly keto-friendly?

Yes! With only ~5.5g net carbs per serving , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.

Can I use fresh cauliflower?

Yes! Fresh works best for better texture—frozen can be slightly softer.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Freeze for up to 3 months .

Can I use other cheeses?

Try Gouda, mozzarella, or smoked cheddar for different flavor profiles.

What can I serve with this soup?

Great served with:

• Low-carb bread
• Garlic cauliflower mash
• As a side to grilled meats or fish
• On its own for a cozy bowl of comfort

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

This Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup works because of its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience:

• The cauliflower creates a creamy base without flour or starch.
• The cheese and cream give richness without being overly heavy.
• And the bacon and toppings bring crunch and depth to every bite.

It’s the kind of soup that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.

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Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative ways to serve your loaded cauliflower soup beyond just a bowl? Here are some ideas:

In Mason Jars

Pack warm soup in mason jars for a portable, thermos-style lunch.

With Dipping Bread

Serve with keto garlic bread or Parmesan crisps for sopping up every last drop.

Over Greens

Pour the soup over a bed of kale or spinach for a warming salad twist.

In Cabbage Cups

Spoon into steamed cabbage leaves for a handheld option.

At a Party

Serve in small cups at your next gathering with toothpicks for garnishes.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this soup special:

Cauliflower

Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C; supports detoxification and digestion.

Bone Broth

Packed with collagen, amino acids, and minerals—great for gut and joint health.

Cheese & Heavy Cream

Good sources of calcium and fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.

Even though this is a creamy soup, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a comfort dish—it’s a smart addition to your balanced low-carb lifestyle.

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Soup for Ketogenic Dieters

This Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be carb-heavy or unhealthy. With its creamy texture, bold cheese flavor, and crispy bacon finish, it’s the kind of soup that turns a simple vegetable into something magical.

Whether you’re keto, gluten-free, or just someone who loves a good homemade soup, this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.

So go ahead—whip up a batch, share it with family, or savor it solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something truly special.

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