Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Potato and Sausage Chowder is just the ticket. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are. Imagine sinking into a steaming bowl of creamy goodness, filled with tender potatoes and flavorful sausage. This chowder is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its ability to bring everyone together. Each bite is packed with flavor and warmth, making it an instant favorite among my friends and family. Plus, it’s so easy to make—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: You can whip this up in under an hour with minimal fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a hearty chowder! It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chowder keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Deliciously comforting: With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to know that this Potato and Sausage Chowder uses simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal:

For the Chowder

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g (6) sausages (any flavour)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 1 litre/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 100g/1/2 cup wild rice
• 3 potatoes (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
• 375ml/1 1/2 cups single/light cream or half and half
• Salt to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this chowder is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition.
• Change up the starch: If you’re not a fan of wild rice, feel free to use quinoa or even pasta!
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your chowder.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. As it cooks, break it up with a spatula until golden brown on all sides. This step is important because browning adds depth of flavor. Once cooked through, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook these over low heat for about 10 minutes until they soften. Adding garlic and thyme now will infuse more wonderful flavors into your chowder—just cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant before moving on.

Step 3: Create Your Base

Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed vegetables and stir well to form a paste called a roux. This thickens your chowder beautifully! Cook this mixture for another couple of minutes before adding back in your cooked sausage.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Pour in just a bit of chicken stock first while stirring until combined with your roux—this helps prevent lumps! Then pour in the rest of your stock along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble away for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Add Potatoes & Finish

Finally, stir in those lovely cubed potatoes and let everything cook together for another 15 minutes until both wild rice and potatoes are tender. When ready, pour in the cream and season generously with salt. Give it a moment to warm through before serving hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top.

And there you have it—a rich, creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder that will warm you from head to toe! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Making this chowder is a breeze, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it’s absolutely perfect every time!

• Use quality sausage: The flavor of your chowder depends heavily on the sausage. Choose a high-quality brand or variety that you love, as this will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Don’t rush the cooking process: Allowing the vegetables to soften slowly brings out their natural sweetness. A gentle sauté for 10 minutes makes all the difference in flavor!

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. If it gets too thick, add a splash more stock or cream to reach your desired consistency.

• Fresh herbs are your friend: While dried thyme works perfectly, adding some fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving can brighten up the dish and add a lovely color.

• Make it ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently when it’s time to serve.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving this chowder is just as delightful as making it! With a few simple touches, you can create an inviting meal that warms both heart and soul.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) can introduce an extra layer of creaminess that complements the chowder beautifully.
• Croutons: Adding some crunchy croutons on top not only gives texture but also makes each bite exciting.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness. Opt for sourdough or a rustic baguette for an added touch.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chowder.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots make for an excellent side that complements the hearty chowder while adding more nutrition.
• Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread pairs wonderfully with chowder. It’s perfect for dipping and brings a touch of Southern comfort to your meal.

Enjoy creating your delicious Potato and Sausage Chowder! Each bowl is sure to bring smiles around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! Preparing it in advance means you can enjoy a hearty, comforting bowl any day of the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool down fully before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, avoid freezing if you’ve already added cream; add it after reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Potato and Sausage Chowder:

Can I make this Potato and Sausage Chowder vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the chowder.

How can I thicken my Potato and Sausage Chowder?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply mash some of the potatoes after cooking or add a little more flour at the beginning when making your roux.

What can I serve with Potato and Sausage Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, fresh salads, or even a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and hearty Potato and Sausage Chowder! It’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe! Happy cooking!