Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, then this Sausage Potato Soup is the perfect recipe for you. It’s creamy, rich, and loaded with hearty ingredients that make it a favorite for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The combination of Italian sausage and baby potatoes creates a comforting blend that feels like home. Whether you’re busy with work or just need a cozy meal on a weeknight, this soup delivers the kind of satisfaction that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I love how this Sausage Potato Soup brings people together. It’s the kind of dish that sparks conversations and fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This soup comes together quickly and doesn’t require any fancy techniques—perfect for cooks of all levels!
• Family-friendly: With its cheesy goodness and savory flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can whip up a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Comforting flavors: Each spoonful is packed with warmth and deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for cold weather.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this delicious Sausage Potato Soup right at home. Gather these items from your kitchen or local grocery store, and let’s get cooking!

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! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the sausage altogether and load up on more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty veggie soup.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your Italian sausage and let it sear for about 1 minute before breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This browning step is crucial as it builds flavor! Cook until deeply browned, then transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. Leave some grease in the pot—it adds richness to our soup!

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 for about 5–7 minutes. If your veggies are larger, give them an extra couple of minutes! Adding garlic at the end gives it just enough time to soften without burning.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Next up, 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 heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let those potatoes cook for 15–20 minutes until they’re fork-tender—they need time to soak up all those delicious flavors!

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

While your potatoes are cooking away, grab another medium pot to melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook while whisking constantly for about 1 minute—it should start to thicken slightly! Slowly pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Keep whisking until it thickens further—this will create our creamy base!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once those veggies are tender, stir in your milk/cream mixture into the potato soup base. Turn off the heat before adding shredded cheese gradually; this helps prevent clumping as it melts beautifully into the soup! Finally, mix in sour cream and return your cooked sausage back into the pot. Taste test for seasoning—feel free to adjust salt and pepper!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve this warm bowl of goodness alongside hearty buttered bread if desired—it’s perfect for dipping! Enjoy every comforting bite of this delicious Sausage Potato Soup with loved ones around your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup can be an absolute delight, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausage will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Freshness ensures that you get the best taste and nutrients from your ingredients.

• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream or using a milk alternative. This way, you can enjoy a delicious bowl without it feeling too rich.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color. This not only boosts the health factor but also adds texture and visual appeal to the soup.

• Make It Ahead of Time: Soups often taste better the next day as flavors meld together. Prepare your sausage potato soup in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight for an even more flavorful experience when serving.

• Store Leftovers Properly: To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later on—just ensure you leave space in the container for expansion!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving your Sausage Potato Soup is all about making it inviting and enjoyable! Here are some ideas to help you present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top before serving for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Crumbled Crackers: Add some crunch with crumbled crackers on top; they provide a delightful texture contrast against the creamy soup.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only looks beautiful but also adds a touch of freshness that complements the richness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly with Sausage Potato Soup, offering a crunchy side that’s great for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Simple Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth to your meal; their caramelized sweetness balances well with the savory flavors of the soup.
• Cheesy Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits are an irresistible addition that complements every spoonful of soup while bringing extra warmth to your dining experience.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Sausage Potato Soup and savoring every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a comforting bowl of goodness ready when you need it.

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.
• To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid adding cheese or sour cream until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool fully before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date to keep track!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, you may need to add a splash of milk or stock to regain creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Potato Soup.

Can I use different types of sausage in this Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives great flavor, feel free to experiment with other types like chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or any preferred meat alternatives.

How can I make this Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this soup, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What are some great toppings for Sausage Potato Soup?

Some delicious toppings include freshly chopped herbs (like parsley), a sprinkle of extra cheese, croutons for crunch, or even a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Can I add more vegetables to this Sausage Potato Soup?

Yes! This soup is quite versatile. Consider adding spinach, kale, corn, or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this rich and creamy Sausage Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, each spoonful is sure to bring a smile. Happy cooking!