When the chill of winter wraps around us, nothing feels quite as comforting as a hearty bowl of Sausage Potato Soup. The moment this creamy delight hits your spoon, it’s like a warm embrace after a long day. With richly seasoned sausage mingling with tender potatoes and vibrant greens, each bite offers a delicious balance of flavors that elevates weeknight dinners to something truly special.
I discovered this recipe during a cozy weekend spent cooking with friends, and it quickly became a staple in my home. The beauty of this soup lies not just in its rich taste but also in its versatility – you can toss in your seasonal vegetables or swap the sausage for a lighter option. Whether you’re gathering friends around the table or simply seeking solace on a cold evening, this Sausage Potato Soup promises to be a crowd-pleaser and will warm your heart with every spoonful. Let’s dive into making this soul-soothing dish!
Why is Sausage Potato Soup Your New Favorite?
Comforting Creaminess: The velvety texture of this soup feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Rich, Savory Flavor: Italian sausage infuses the dish with a robust, irresistible taste, complemented by aromatic spices.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding seasonal veggies or swapping out sausages, catering to any preference.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can have this hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Great for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds of this delightful soup.
For more inspiration, explore other comforting soups that keep you warm during the colder months!
Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Italian Sausage – Provides savory depth and protein; you can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing to build flavor; can be replaced with vegetable oil if needed.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed; any onion variety works, but yellow or sweet onions are preferred.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor with a rich aroma; fresh garlic is best, though garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Potatoes – The main body of the soup providing creaminess and texture; Yukon gold or russet are ideal, but red potatoes can work too.
• Chicken Broth – The base liquid for flavor depth; feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For Seasoning
• Italian Seasoning – Blends multiple herbs for flavor; dried oregano and basil can be substituted.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness; use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; adjust as necessary for dietary constraints.
For Creaminess
• Heavy Cream – Gives the soup its creamy texture; for a dairy-free option, use coconut milk.
• Kale or Spinach – Adds nutritious greens for flavor and color; Swiss chard is a good substitute as well.
Finishing Touches
• Parmesan Cheese – For serving, it adds umami richness; you can omit for dairy-free diets.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds optional heat; adjust according to your preference or omit for a milder flavor.
Prepare to be delighted by this Sausage Potato Soup because each ingredient brings its own magic to the bowl!
How to Make Sausage Potato Soup
-
Heat Oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re tender and translucent—about 3-4 minutes. The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen!
-
Add Veggies & Broth: Toss in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing those flavors to meld.
-
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, becoming perfectly creamy.
-
Incorporate Cream & Greens: Gently stir in the heavy cream and chopped greens, allowing them to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the greens wilt and the soup is decadently creamy.
-
Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sausage Potato Soup make ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy hearty comfort food without the last-minute rush! You can chop the onions, garlic, and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance – just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the sausage can be cooked and crumbled up to 3 days ahead, then simply cool and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to make the soup, sauté the prepared ingredients and add in your broth and seasonings, then simmer as directed. This way, your meal will be just as delicious, saving you time and effort while keeping those comforting flavors intact!
Expert Tips for Sausage Potato Soup
-
Thicker Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer uncovered longer or mash some potatoes in the pot for that creamy texture.
-
Leftover Storage: Cool any leftover soup completely before refrigerating in an airtight container; it’s good for up to 3 days and the flavors deepen over time.
-
Freezing Instructions: To freeze your Sausage Potato Soup, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
-
Gentle Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much in the process.
-
Custom Flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to elevate your dish. Fresh chives or thyme can add a delightful twist!
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup
-
Fridge: Store leftover Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, cool the soup completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
-
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
-
Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during reheating.
What to Serve with Sausage Potato Soup?
A steaming bowl of this sumptuous soup deserves delightful companions to create the perfect meal experience.
- Crusty Bread: Provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness of the soup.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side salad adds crispness and bright flavors, balancing the hearty nature of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts give a sweet and savory contrast, enhancing your overall dining experience.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are ideal for soaking up the rich broth and complementing the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Cheddar Biscuits: Light and fluffy, these biscuits bring an extra layer of comfort while pairing wonderfully with the soup’s creaminess.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, allowing you to fully enjoy each flavorful bite.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, these classic cookies provide a nostalgic touch that warms the heart after your meal.
Each of these options brings something special to the table, creating a meal that’s not just filling but also an experience to savor!
Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Customize your Sausage Potato Soup to make it uniquely yours! Each variation offers a delightful twist that enhances the comforting experience.
- Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat. Your taste buds will thank you for this fiery addition!
- Plant-Based: Swap out the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version. This still packs a savory punch!
- Herb Boost: Add a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the last few minutes of simmering to brighten the flavors. Freshness can transform the dish!
- Chunky Veggies: Toss in carrots, zucchini, or celery for extra nutrition and texture. A medley of veggies not only adds color but also flavor depth.
- Lighter Broth: For a lighter soup, increase the amount of chicken broth and decrease the cream. You’ll have a deliciously brothier soup that’s just as comforting.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a cheesy twist. The melted cheese brings a delightful creaminess that’s hard to resist!
- Smoky Flavor: For a deeper smoky profile, include diced smoked sausage in place of the regular Italian sausage. It brings layers of flavor that are simply irresistible.
With these variations, you’ll discover endless ways to enjoy your Sausage Potato Soup, ensuring it never gets old!
Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Sausage Potato Soup?
The best potatoes for your Sausage Potato Soup are Yukon gold or russet potatoes. They offer creamy texture when cooked. You can also use red potatoes, but I find that Yukon gold gives that ideal velvety feel that complements the soup perfectly!
How should I store leftover Sausage Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Store your leftover Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to cool the soup completely before sealing it. This way, the flavors deepen beautifully, and you’ll discover it’s even more delightful upon reheating.
Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup?
Yes! To freeze your Sausage Potato Soup, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it gently on the stovetop. If the soup thickens during freezing, simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating, and you’ll be good to go!
What should I do if my soup is too thin?
If you find that your soup is too thin, don’t fret! You can thicken it by simmering uncovered for a longer time, allowing some of the moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, mash a few potato chunks right in the pot with a fork or potato masher—this will help create a creamy consistency without additional ingredients.
Are there any dietary considerations for Sausage Potato Soup?
Indeed, if you’re looking for dietary alternatives, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. For those watching their sodium intake, I recommend using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the salt. If you have allergies like gluten or dairy sensitivities, ensure that all your ingredients are free of those elements. Enjoy the fullness of flavors without worry!
Hearty Sausage Potato Soup for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re tender and translucent—about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Gently stir in the heavy cream and chopped greens, allowing them to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.