Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you in warmth, look no further than this Sausage Potato Soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s like a big hug in a bowl! This recipe has become a family favorite of mine because it combines rich, cheesy goodness with hearty ingredients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this soup brings everyone together with its comforting flavors.

The best part? You can whip it up in under an hour! So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor—it’s an instant hit!
• Comforting and Hearty: With every spoonful, this soup warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly days.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal later on.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or tweak the spices to suit your taste buds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sausage Potato Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create this creamy masterpiece!

For the Soup

• 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)
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Hearty buttered bread (for serving, optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or use what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or frozen peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Spice it up: If you like things spicy, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat!

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your Italian sausage and let it sear for about a minute before crumbling it with a wooden spoon. Cooking until it’s deeply browned not only enhances the flavor but also adds that beautiful texture we crave in soups. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels while leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add in your mirepoix—diced carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté them for about 5–7 minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness. Just before they’re done, toss in minced garlic for an additional burst of flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

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

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Base

While your potatoes are cooking away, grab another medium pot and melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and keep whisking constantly for about a minute until bubbly—it helps thicken our soup! Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Keep cooking until thickened slightly before stirring in heavy cream for that luscious finish.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are tender, add that creamy mixture into the pot with potatoes. Turn off the heat and gradually stir in shredded cheese until melted into gooey perfection. Don’t forget to mix back in that delicious sausage! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—it’s all about making it perfect just for you.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle your warm Sausage Potato Soup into bowls and serve with hearty buttered bread if desired. Enjoy every sip of this comforting creation—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful experience that anyone can master with a few helpful tips!

• Choose Your Sausage Wisely: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the sausage you use. Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for a richer taste. You can also mix mild and hot sausages for a little heat without overpowering the dish.

• Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Taking some time to chop your mirepoix and potatoes ahead of cooking can streamline your process, making it easier to focus on developing those delicious flavors while cooking.

• Embrace the Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk or adding more heavy cream. This will give your soup a luxurious mouthfeel that elevates every spoonful.

• Season Gradually: It’s always best to taste as you go! Start with the recommended salt and pepper, then adjust according to your preference at the end of cooking. This will ensure your soup is perfectly seasoned.

• Leftovers Are Gold: This soup not only tastes amazing fresh but is great for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas that will make this comforting dish look and taste even better.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds freshness and color, enhancing both the presentation and flavor.
• Crumbled Cheese: A handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese can add an interesting tanginess that complements the richness of the soup.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks appealing but also adds a slight kick to every bowl.

Side Dishes

• Hearty Buttered Bread: Thick slices of crusty bread spread with butter are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and make every bite more satisfying.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up every last drop of delicious broth!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add another layer of flavor and nutrition alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

Enjoy creating this cozy dish, and don’t forget to share it with family or friends—there’s nothing quite like good food enjoyed together!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for busy weekdays.

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.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Sausage Potato Soup!

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage in this Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great lower-fat alternative that will still provide wonderful flavor. You can choose mild or spicy turkey sausage depending on your preference.

How can I make this Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth. You can add more hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to my Sausage Potato Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or corn. Just ensure they are added at the appropriate time during cooking so they maintain their texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this heartwarming Sausage Potato Soup! It’s a comforting dish that brings friends and family together around the table. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!