Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Sausage Potato Soup is a family favorite that never fails to bring comfort on chilly evenings. With its rich, cheesy flavor and hearty ingredients like Italian sausage, baby potatoes, and fresh veggies, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or those special family gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in no time!

The best part? This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Once you take the first spoonful, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in our household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this delightful soup ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or grains for added nutrition!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Sausage Potato Soup! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.

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

For Serving

• Hearty buttered bread (optional)

Variations

This Sausage Potato Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• 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 corn for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Creamy alternative: Use coconut milk instead of dairy milk for a unique twist that’s still creamy!

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about one minute. Use a wooden spoon to crumble it as it cooks. You’re looking for that beautiful deep-brown color because browning adds so much flavor! Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps drain excess grease while leaving just enough behind for sautéing.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Then toss in your mirepoix—carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté them for about 5–7 minutes until they soften up. Don’t forget to add minced garlic towards the end; cooking it just long enough allows its flavor to bloom without burning.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Stock

Now it’s time to stir in your 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 the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let those potatoes cook for about 15–20 minutes until they’re fork-tender—the aroma will be heavenly!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

While your veggies are cooking away, grab another medium pot and melt four tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in six tablespoons of flour for about one minute until it becomes slightly golden—this is your roux! Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Keep whisking until it thickens slightly; then stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your potatoes are tender, gently stir in that creamy mixture from step four into your pot of goodness. Turn off the heat before adding shredded cheese—add it gradually while stirring gently until melted. Finally, mix in sour cream and return that delicious sausage back into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve your beautiful Sausage Potato Soup warm alongside hearty buttered bread if desired. Enjoy each comforting spoonful—it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen too!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making this Sausage Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup significantly, making each bowl taste vibrant and wholesome.

• Customize your sausage: Whether you prefer mild or spicy sausage, choosing the right variety will allow you to control the heat level in your soup, catering to your family’s taste preferences.

• Add depth with spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as smoked paprika or red pepper flakes, which can add a lovely smoky or spicy kick to your soup.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer after adding the milk and cream helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.

• Save leftovers wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for a quick and comforting meal.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving this warm and inviting Sausage Potato Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some simple yet effective presentation ideas that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.

• Crumbled cheese: A little extra shredded cheddar or crumbled feta on top creates an indulgent touch that enhances the creamy texture of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Hearty buttered bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping; the buttery flavor complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup while providing a refreshing crunch.

• Garlic breadsticks: Soft and chewy garlic breadsticks offer a fun twist that pairs wonderfully with every spoonful of creamy goodness.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add another layer of flavor while being nutritious and delicious.

Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Sausage Potato Soup! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set for a cozy meal that’s sure to please everyone around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes better the next day as flavors meld, but it also makes busy weeknights a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious soup later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, avoid adding cheese or sour cream before freezing; stir them in after reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If needed, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup’s texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Sausage Potato Soup that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish!

Can I use turkey sausage in Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative that will still give you that delicious flavor while being a bit leaner.

How can I make my Sausage Potato Soup spicier?

To add more heat, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What vegetables can I add to my Sausage Potato Soup?

Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them along with the mirepoix.

Is Sausage Potato Soup gluten-free?

You can easily make this soup gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch when thickening the broth.

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy milk and cream. Adjust seasonings to enhance flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Sausage Potato Soup! It’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for chilly days or any time you crave something hearty. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with family and friends. Happy cooking!

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