Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the soul, look no further than this delightful Sausage Potato Soup. It’s a recipe I hold dear to my heart—perfect for chilly evenings when you want something filling and delicious. Every spoonful is like a hug, with rich flavors from Italian sausage mingling with tender baby potatoes and fresh veggies in a creamy broth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering of family and friends, this soup brings everyone together, creating moments that are cherished as much as the meal itself.

What makes this Sausage Potato Soup even more special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a pot of comfort that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and hearty flavors!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for an effortless meal later on.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to tweak the veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences!
• Deliciously satisfying: With its creamy texture and savory components, it’s truly a meal in itself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You don’t need anything fancy here—just good-quality staples that come together beautifully in this comforting soup.

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)

For the Creamy Base

• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Seasoning & Garnish

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Optional Serving

• Hearty buttered bread

Variations

One of the best things about Sausage Potato Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix it up with these fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you want to go lighter, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your soups!
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage to sear for about one minute before crumbling it with a wooden spoon. Cooking until deeply browned adds depth and flavor to your soup base. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels while leaving some grease in the pot. This will help sauté your vegetables beautifully!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion to create your mirepoix. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until they soften—this step brings out their natural sweetness! Don’t forget to add in the minced garlic towards the end; cooking it just long enough helps release its fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Stock

Stir in your chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Reducing heat to medium-low allows those potatoes to become fork-tender without overcooking them—about 15-20 minutes should do it!

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Base

While your potatoes are cooking away, let’s make the creamy base! Melt four tablespoons of butter in another pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute until bubbly—this creates your roux. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Keep cooking until thickened; then stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once those veggies are nice and tender, stir in your creamy mixture into the pot with potatoes. Turn off heat and sprinkle shredded cheese into the soup—a handful at a time—stirring gently until melted. Finally, add back that delicious sausage along with sour cream. Taste for seasoning adjustments; every bite should be bursting with flavor!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve this wonderful Sausage Potato Soup warm alongside hearty buttered bread if you like! It’s perfect for dipping and savoring every creamy mouthful.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Sausage Potato Soup! It’s sure to be a hit at any meal!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup is simple and rewarding, and a few pro tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Opting for fresh herbs over dried can add a burst of brightness that complements the creamy broth beautifully.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more flour to your milk mixture or reduce the amount of liquid. This allows you to customize the consistency to match your family’s preferences.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to play with different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the soup a delightful kick, while smoked paprika can provide depth.

• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make this recipe a day in advance and reheat before serving for maximum deliciousness.

• Store leftovers properly: To keep your soup fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances its comforting qualities. Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds color and freshness, making your soup look even more appetizing.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Hearty buttered bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up every bit of that rich broth.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts bring an appealing sweetness and earthy flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Cheesy garlic bread: If you want something extra indulgent, serve some cheesy garlic bread alongside for a satisfying treat that pairs well.

Enjoy crafting your own rendition of Sausage Potato Soup! Each bowl brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store leftovers for those busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to enjoy it later, portion it into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label and date your containers!

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe!

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or simply omit it altogether. Add more vegetables or beans to keep it hearty.

How do I thicken my Sausage Potato Soup?

If you find your soup too thin, you can create a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and water, then stirring it into the simmering soup until thickened.

What can I serve with Sausage Potato Soup?

Hearty buttered bread pairs wonderfully with this dish. A simple side salad can also complement the flavors nicely!

Can I use different types of potatoes in my Sausage Potato Soup?

Yes! While baby gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, feel free to experiment with other varieties like red or Yukon gold potatoes.

How long does Sausage Potato Soup last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your soup should last about 3-4 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Sausage Potato Soup as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a little extra warmth on chilly days. Enjoy making this lovely dish for yourself and your loved ones—it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!