As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s an undeniable urge to cozy up with a hearty bowl of goodness. That’s when I found myself drawn to my kitchen, ready to whip up a comforting Chorizo and Potato Soup that dances on the palate with smoky warmth. The moment the spicy chorizo hits the pan, its fragrance wraps around you like a hug, teasing your taste buds in anticipation.
This recipe is a delightful blend of creamy potatoes and zesty chorizo, making it the ultimate comfort food for those chillier days. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a satisfying mix of flavors that not only nourishes but also warms your soul. And the best part? You can have this delectable soup simmering on your stovetop in less than an hour. Whether paired with crusty bread for a complete meal or enjoyed solo on a weeknight, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Why is Chorizo and Potato Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth radiates from this hearty soup, making it perfect for cozy nights in. Flavorful and filling, each spoonful showcases rich, smoky chorizo and creamy potatoes that create pure satisfaction. Quick to prepare, this dish can be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile options allow you to customize the recipe with different sausages or added vegetables. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Embrace the joys of soup season with this delicious comforting classic!
Chorizo and Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Spicy Chorizo (8-10 ounces) – Provides a spicy and smoky flavor to the soup; substitute with any other sausage if desired.
- Potatoes (15 ounces) – Adds creaminess and heartiness when cooked; use russet or white potatoes, peeled, and cubed.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Used for sautéing the vegetables to bring out their flavors.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the overall soup.
- Garlic (1 tbsp minced) – Enhances aroma and taste, bringing a lovely warmth to the dish.
For Seasoning and Texture
- Cumin Powder (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and a southwestern flair that pairs beautifully with the chorizo.
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Contributes an earthy flavor; substitute with oregano if preferred.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Infuses the broth with herbal essence, adding complexity to the soup.
- Chicken Stock (3 cups) – Forms the base of the soup; use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- Milk (1 cup) – Creates a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.
Final Touches
- Salt to taste – Enhances the overall flavors of this delicious chorizo and potato soup.
How to Make Chorizo and Potato Soup
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Heat Oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. This will be the base for sautéing your vegetables to develop rich flavors.
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Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened, about 3-4 minutes. The sweet aroma will start filling your kitchen, promising a delicious meal ahead.
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Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, roughly 1 minute. This step adds an inviting depth to your soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Cook Chorizo: Toss in the crumbled chorizo and cook for 4-5 minutes until it releases its spicy oils and the color changes. Enjoy the smoky scent that envelops you as it cooks!
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Incorporate Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes. This helps the potatoes absorb the flavors and start to soften.
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Season: Sprinkle in the cumin, thyme, and bay leaf, then season with salt. Mix everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the soup.
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Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in Milk: Once the potatoes are soft, reduce the heat and stir in the milk. Cover again and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy the heartwarming flavors!
Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chorizo and Potato Soup
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Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat of your chorizo and potato soup by choosing milder or hot chorizo, or using less spicy sausage to fit your family’s taste.
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Prep Potatoes Quick: For a more efficient prep time, you can use pre-cooked potatoes instead of raw. Just toss them in during the simmer phase.
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Flavor Enhancer: Allow the soup to rest overnight in the fridge; it’ll develop richer, deeper flavors, making it even more delightful the next day.
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Freshness Matters: Always sauté your onions and garlic until they’re fully aromatic to enhance the overall taste of the soup. Don’t skip these foundation flavors!
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Consistent Texture: If you prefer a creamier consistency, consider blending a portion of the soup before stirring in the milk for a velvety finish.
Embrace comfort food season with this effortlessly delicious chorizo and potato soup!
How to Store and Freeze Chorizo and Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Portioning: Consider freezing individual portions for quick meals. This makes enjoying your flavorful chorizo and potato soup even easier on busy days!
Reheating: When reheating, ensure the soup reaches a temperature of 165°F for safe consumption, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What to Serve with Chorizo and Potato Soup?
Warm up your dining experience with delightful pairings that elevate this hearty, comforting soup.
- Crusty Bread: A rustic, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the rich, creamy goodness of your soup.
- Butter Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls slathered in butter create a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the chorizo.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness, adding freshness to your meal.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of each serving adds tanginess, enhancing the soup’s creamy texture while cooling its heat.
- Grated Cheese: Sprinkle some sharp cheddar or crumbled feta on top for an irresistible cheesy layer that melts beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad provides a refreshing palate cleanser, brightening your meal after each hearty spoonful.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the warmth of the soup with its crisp acidity and light fruit notes.
- Brownies: For dessert, indulge in fudgy brownies; their richness acts as a sweet contrast to your savory soup experience.
- Herbed Rice: Serve alongside fluffy herbed rice for a satisfying, filling addition that absorbs every bit of the delicious broth.
These pairings turn your Chorizo and Potato Soup into a full-bodied meal that delights the senses and brings warmth to your evening.
Chorizo and Potato Soup Variations
Customize your Chorizo and Potato Soup with these delightful twists that elevate flavors and textures!
- Chicken Sausage: Substitute spicy chorizo with chicken sausage for a lighter, yet equally tasty option.
- Plant-Based Delight: Use vegan chorizo or a combination of lentils and beans for a wholesome, meat-free version.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to enhance the soup’s nutrition and flavor profile.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream or crème fraîche right before serving for a tangy finish.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce if you crave more heat.
- Herbal Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be tossed in before serving for an aromatic lift.
- Cheesy Goodness: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or crumbled feta before serving for a rich addition.
- Smoky Flavor: For even more depth, incorporate smoked paprika to amplify the smoky notes of the chorizo.
With these variations, you can make this comforting soup uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Chorizo and Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop your onions and garlic, and even cube the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. For even more flavor, consider cooking the chorizo and combining it with the sautéed vegetables, then refrigerate that mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture in a pot, add the chicken stock and milk, and simmer until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy your delicious Chorizo and Potato Soup with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Chorizo and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chorizo should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! Spicy chorizo is recommended for that rich, smoky flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste or need a substitution, feel free to use any other sausage, such as chicken sausage or even a vegetarian option. The choice can greatly influence the soup’s flavor profile while keeping the heartiness intact.
How do I store leftover Chorizo and Potato Soup?
Very easy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often reheat mine on the stovetop, and if it thickens too much, just add a splash of milk to bring it back to the perfect creamy texture.
Can I freeze Chorizo and Potato Soup?
Yes, you can! Spoon the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat until it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If you find your soup is thicker than desired, simply add additional chicken stock or milk until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir well and heat through to combine all those wonderful flavors.
Can pets eat Chorizo and Potato Soup?
It’s best not to share this soup with your furry friends. The seasoning and ingredients like garlic can be harmful to pets. Instead, serve them some plain boiled potatoes without seasoning if you want to treat them to some of the soup’s main ingredient. Always prioritize their safety!
What vegetables can I add for extra nutrition?
The more, the merrier! You can easily boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach. Just chop them up and toss them in when adding the potatoes, allowing them to simmer along for a perfect medley of flavors and textures!
Hearty Chorizo and Potato Soup for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, roughly 1 minute.
- Toss in the crumbled chorizo and cook for 4-5 minutes until it releases its spicy oils.
- Add the cubed potatoes and sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the cumin, thyme, and bay leaf, then season with salt.
- Pour in the chicken stock, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Once soft, reduce heat and stir in the milk; cook for another 10 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm.