Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both heart and soul, this Sausage Potato Soup is just the ticket! Imagine a creamy, rich soup filled with tender potatoes, hearty Italian sausage, and vibrant veggies. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, making it one of my all-time favorite recipes to share.

This soup not only satisfies your cravings but also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes it hard to wait until dinnertime. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a hectic day yet special enough for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: This Sausage Potato Soup is rich and cheesy, providing the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and flavorful ingredients.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal during busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking this Sausage Potato Soup is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have many of them in your pantry already!

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2-1/4 cups mirepoix (or 3/4 cup each: diced carrots, celery, and yellow onion)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 cups chopped baby gold potatoes (no need to peel)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 4 cups chicken stock (or broth)

For the Creamy Mixture

• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Serving

• 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Hearty buttered bread (for serving, optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling creative or want to adapt it to your tastes, here are some variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version without losing flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or even corn for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to enhance the heat.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the sausage entirely and add extra beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about a minute. Then use a wooden spoon to crumble the sausage as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to your soup. Once it’s deeply browned, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. It will pick up all those lovely flavors from the sausage! Add your diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these veggies for about 5–7 minutes until they soften up nicely. The smell will be heavenly! Don’t forget to add minced garlic at the end—just cook it for about 30 seconds so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Stock

Now it’s time to stir in those chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until your potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

While those potatoes are cooking away, grab another medium pot to make your creamy mixture. Melt down 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly for about a minute—this helps create a roux that thickens your soup beautifully. Slowly pour in your milk while whisking until smooth; then cook until it thickens slightly and bubbles gently. Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are tender, it’s time to combine! Stir in that luscious milk/cream mixture into your pot with potatoes. Turn off the heat and gradually add shredded cheese—a handful at a time—stirring gently until melted into creamy goodness. Don’t forget to mix in sour cream before returning the cooked sausage back into the pot!

Step 6: Serve Up Warm

Now that everything’s mixed together perfectly seasoned with salt and pepper—serve warm! Pair it with hearty buttered bread if you fancy. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this delicious Sausage Potato Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few extra tips, you can elevate this comforting dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup, making it richer and more aromatic. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible to get the best taste.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more flour to the milk mixture or cook it longer to reduce some liquid. This gives you control over the texture and creaminess of your soup.

• Add variety: Feel free to toss in other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or corn during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only adds nutrition but also brightens up the color and flavor of your dish.

• Make it ahead: Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare your Sausage Potato Soup ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge overnight for an even more flavorful meal.

• Store properly: When storing leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents spoilage.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving your Sausage Potato Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley or chives: A sprinkle of these herbs adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Crumbled crackers or crispy bread: Adding these on top creates a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy broth.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, this side is excellent for dipping into your hearty soup.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with homemade dressing offers a refreshing balance to the creamy richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a deliciously sweet contrast and pack in more nutrients!
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: A classic pairing that never fails! The gooey cheese and crispy bread complement each spoonful of soup beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a warm bowl of Sausage Potato Soup that’s sure to impress anyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty portions throughout the week. Whether you’re batch cooking for busy days or simply want to savor this comforting dish longer, here’s how to store it effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If using a glass container, ensure it’s not too hot before sealing to avoid breakage.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down fully before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Note: Creamy soups may change texture slightly when thawed but will still be delicious!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Potato Soup that might help you out!

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the sausage and sauté veggies as instructed. Then, transfer everything into your slow cooker along with the potatoes and stock. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cream and cheese just before serving.

What can I serve with Sausage Potato Soup?

Hearty buttered bread pairs wonderfully with this Sausage Potato Soup. You might also enjoy a fresh side salad or some crunchy crackers for added texture!

Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer leaner options. The flavor profile will still be delightful.

How can I make this soup healthier?

To make your Sausage Potato Soup healthier, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream and cheese. You could also add more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients!

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings everyone together. I hope you have as much fun making it as you will enjoy sharing it with family and friends. Dive into its creamy goodness, and may each spoonful fill you with comfort and joy! Happy cooking!