If you crave a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with flavor and comes together effortlessly, this Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine juicy shrimp swimming in a rich, velvety broth thickened with tender potatoes and enlivened by just the right amount of paprika and fresh herbs. It’s a cozy hug in a bowl that you can whip up quickly any day of the week, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether you’re craving something warm after a long day or want to impress friends with a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe hits all the marks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a luxurious taste and satisfying texture. Each item plays a vital role, from the creamy potatoes adding body to the soup to the fresh parsley giving it a bright finishing touch.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp provide the star protein with a delicate seafood flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to mellow and sweeten.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Builds a flavorful foundation with its natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a subtle pungency and depth that complements shrimp beautifully.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Acts as the savory liquid base, balancing the creaminess without overpowering.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings indulgent creaminess and a silky mouthfeel that makes the soup truly comforting.
- 1 cup diced potatoes: Adds heartiness and a velvety texture once cooked down.
- 1 cup chopped celery: Contributes a gentle crunch and fresh, earthy notes.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Lends a touch of warmth and subtle smokiness to brighten the overall flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate and balance every ingredient.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Provides a pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma.
How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the butter, then gently add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cooking these for about 2-3 minutes softens them just enough to release their flavors, creating a fragrant and savory base that’s essential for layering the taste right from the start.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Spices
Next, toss in the diced potatoes along with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well so the potatoes get coated with those spices. This step ensures that the potatoes don’t just cook through but also soak up the seasonings, making each bite flavorful and comforting.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Pressure Cook
Pour in the chicken broth to cover all the ingredients. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. This short but efficient cooking time softens the potatoes perfectly and melds the flavors while keeping everything vibrant and fresh.
Step 4: Add Shrimp and Cream
After carefully performing a quick release of the pressure, open the lid and stir in the shrimp along with the heavy cream. This timing is key—it prevents the shrimp from overcooking and allows the rich cream to blend seamlessly into the soup, giving it that luscious texture that makes this Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Final Sauté for Shrimp Doneness
Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode and cook for another 3-4 minutes. During this time, the shrimp will turn a beautiful pink and cook just right, while the soup thickens slightly. Keep stirring gently to prevent sticking and to ensure a smooth, even consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. This simple garnish not only adds a burst of color but also lends a delicate freshness that balances the creamy richness. Now it’s ready to enjoy either as a comforting solo meal or part of a special dinner.
How to Serve Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finish here, but you can also experiment with a squeeze of lemon juice for tang or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Adding a small drizzle of good olive oil just before serving can elevate the soup’s silkiness and add a luxurious mouthfeel. The key is keeping garnishes light so the creamy shrimp soup remains the shining star.
Side Dishes
This creamy shrimp soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last drop. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast. If you want to keep things cozy, garlic mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf complement the soup’s flavors beautifully and create a more filling meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or rustic ceramic crocks. Layer bowls with a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top for a pop of color. You can also serve it alongside a small platter of grilled shrimp skewers for an eye-catching seafood feast. No matter how you present it, this soup makes a striking impression.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Keep the parsley garnish separate until ready to serve to maintain its freshness and vibrant color.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, but be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Because of the cream and potatoes, the texture may change slightly, so stir well after thawing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of broth or water can help bring the soup back to the perfect consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the shrimp tender and the creamy base silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before adding to the soup. This helps prevent excess water from diluting the flavors. Add the shrimp in Step 4 as directed for perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?
Definitely! Scallops, chunks of firm white fish, or even crab meat can be great swaps. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking more delicate seafood.
How spicy is the soup? Can I adjust the heat?
This recipe uses paprika, which is mild and adds warmth but not significant heat. If you prefer spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when sautéing.
Do I have to use an Instant Pot to make this soup?
You can make a version on the stovetop, but the Instant Pot significantly cuts down the cooking time and intensifies the flavors by pressure cooking. It’s truly the easiest way to get creamy, perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing like the ease and comfort this Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe brings to your table. It’s a dish that feels special without the fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. I hope you’ll give it a try and savor every creamy, flavorful spoonful as much as I do. Once you have this recipe in your cooking rotation, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too.
Print
Instant Pot Creamy Shrimp Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy shrimp soup made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This comforting dish combines succulent shrimp, tender potatoes, and aromatic vegetables in a velvety broth seasoned with paprika and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Saute Vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the butter, then add the finely chopped onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the pot. Stir everything together to combine the flavors well.
- Add Broth and Pressure Cook: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. This will cook the potatoes through and infuse the broth with all the flavors.
- Release Pressure and Add Shrimp and Cream: Carefully quick release the pressure using the valve. Open the lid and add the peeled, deveined shrimp along with the heavy cream. Stir well to mix the shrimp and cream into the soup.
- Finish Cooking Shrimp: Switch back to sauté mode and cook the soup for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through but still tender.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy shrimp soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less heavy cream according to preference.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream alternative.
- Ensure the shrimp is added after pressure cooking to prevent it from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice herbal touch; alternatively, you can use dill or chives for garnish.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with paprika.
