Instant Pot Lentil Soup Easy 20 Min One Pot Family Budget

If you are looking for the ultimate weeknight savior that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank, you have found it. This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. It is incredibly hearty, packed with plant-based protein, and utilizes pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Best of all, the Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, giving you a deep, “simmered-all-day” flavor in just about 20 minutes of active time. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner on a rainy Tuesday, this budget-friendly recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition values

• Calories: 245 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbs: 38g

Why Make This Instant Pot Lentil Soup Easy 20 Min One Pot Family Budget

There are countless reasons to love this recipe, but the main draw is the efficiency. Using the Instant Pot allows the lentils to soften perfectly without the need for soaking or hours of stovetop monitoring. It is a true “set it and forget it” meal. From a financial standpoint, lentils are one of the most affordable sources of high-quality protein available. This entire pot of soup costs only a few dollars to make, yet it provides enough nutrients to keep everyone satisfied. Plus, because it is a one-pot meal, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to relax after dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed and picked over
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach or chopped kale
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Toast the spices for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor of the soup.

Step 2: Pressure Cook

Pour in a splash of the broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot to prevent a “Burn” notice. Add the remaining broth, the rinsed lentils, and the diced tomatoes. Close the lid and set the valve to the Sealing position. Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High for 15 minutes. Note that the pot will take a few minutes to reach pressure before the timer starts.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to Quick Release for the remaining steam. Open the lid and stir in the fresh spinach or kale; the residual heat will wilt the greens in about a minute. Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors and season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Plating

Ladle the hot soup into deep bowls. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil on top or garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or crackers for the perfect family meal.

Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Lentil Soup Easy 20 Min One Pot Family Budget

To get the best results, always rinse your lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris. If you prefer a thicker, creamier soup, use an immersion blender to pulse the soup a few times directly in the pot after cooking. This releases some of the starches without turning the entire meal into a puree. Also, do not skip the lemon juice at the end! The acidity cuts through the earthiness of the lentils and balances the spices perfectly. Finally, if the soup becomes too thick after sitting, simply splash in a little extra broth or water when reheating.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this soup based on what you have in your pantry. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño during the sauté step. If you want to add meat, sliced smoked sausage or browned ground turkey works beautifully. To make a “Curry Lentil” version, swap the oregano and paprika for 1 tablespoon of curry powder and use coconut milk in place of two cups of broth. You can also swap the spinach for swiss chard or collard greens if you prefer a heartier leafy green.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green?

Red lentils cook much faster than brown or green lentils. If you use red lentils, they will completely break down and create a thick, porridge-like consistency. If you choose to use them, reduce the pressure cooking time to 5 minutes.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Absolutely. Follow the sauté steps in a large Dutch oven, then add the broth and lentils. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

What if I get a “Burn” notice on my Instant Pot?

The “Burn” notice usually happens if there are bits of onion or spices stuck to the bottom. Always ensure you deglaze the pot thoroughly with a little liquid after sautéing before you start the pressure cooking cycle.

How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?

This soup is excellent for meal prep and actually tastes better the next day. It will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a powerhouse recipe that proves you don’t need to spend a lot of money or time to put a nutritious meal on the table. Its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and quick cooking time make it a staple for any busy kitchen. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the ease of a one-pot dinner that the whole family will love!

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