As I stirred the pot, a rich aroma enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy family gatherings. This Hearty Sausage Potato Soup is my go-to dish for chilly evenings, packed with savory sausage and tender potatoes in a luscious creamy broth. Not only is this recipe a comforting hug in a bowl, but it’s also incredibly budget-friendly and a breeze to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s easily customizable—feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste. Ready to serve up some warmth and comfort? Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Hearty Comfort: This Hearty Sausage Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a warm embrace on chilly nights.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients—try adding kale or corn for a nutrient boost!
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a filling meal on the table in under 30 minutes; perfect for weeknight dinners.
Budget-Friendly: Utilize pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it easy on your wallet.
Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends will rave about the rich flavors and creamy texture, leaving everyone wanting more! Be sure to serve it alongside some crusty bread for an even heartier meal. If you’re looking for more warming suggestions, check out my recipes for Dill Pickle Soup or Cowboy Soup Hearty.
Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
• All you need for this cozy dish!
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with canola oil for a neutral taste.
• Italian Sausage (1 pound) – Provides savory depth; opt for mild or spicy based on your family’s preference.
• Onion (1 medium, diced) – Offers sweetness and aroma; shallots work well for a milder touch.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the flavor; garlic powder can be a quick alternative if fresh isn’t handy.
• Potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced) – The hearty base; Yukon golds lend creaminess while russets add lightness.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Offers foundational flavor; switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Brings richness and creaminess; half-and-half is a lighter choice.
For Seasoning
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Elevates all flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste preference.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds a hint of spice; white pepper can work as a milder choice.
• Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon) or Italian Seasoning – Introduces lovely herbal notes; fresh herbs can take it to the next level.
Optional Garnish
• Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded) – Adds creaminess and sharp flavor; sprinkle on top just before serving for extra indulgence.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Sausage Potato Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease, leaving the flavorful bits in the pot to build depth in your Hearty Sausage Potato Soup.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Stir in 1 diced medium onion and let it sauté in the pot for about 3–4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Your kitchen will start to fill with delightful aromas, setting the stage for the rich flavors to come.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Once the aromatics are ready, add in 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes along with 4 cups of chicken broth. Season generously with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
After the potatoes are tender, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream along with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, taking care to avoid boiling. This step enriches the Hearty Sausage Potato Soup with a creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls, marveling at the creamy richness and heartiness of your creation. For a pop of color and flavor, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or sliced green onions. Pair this comforting dish with crusty bread to dip in, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table.
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup
Refrigerate: Keep your Hearty Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freeze: For longer storage, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months—best frozen before adding cream; stir in after reheating.
Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, warm it gently on the stove over low heat. You may want to add broth or milk to thin it out, restoring that creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Sausage Potato Soup is a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can dice the potatoes and sauté the sausage up to 24 hours in advance; to prevent browning, keep the potatoes submerged in cold water while refrigerating. Prepare the aromatics and store them alongside the sausage in an airtight container, making your final cooking effortless. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients, add broth, and simmer; finish with cream and cheese for that luscious touch. With this approach, you’ll have a comforting, warm bowl ready with minimal effort, perfect for cozy evenings at home!
Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor this delightful soup to your family’s preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free chicken broth and check your sausage for any gluten-containing fillers.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some chopped kale, spinach, or corn to amp up the nutrition while adding a pop of color!
- Spicy Kick: Swap in spicy Italian sausage or add a dash of red pepper flakes for a warming kick that’ll awaken your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk for an equally rich texture without the dairy.
- Herb Explosion: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can elevate the flavor; add them just before serving for a fresh burst.
- Thicker Consistency: Blend a portion of the soup or add in an extra cup of potatoes for a heartier texture that leaves you feeling satisfied.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a tangy twist that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Flavorful Broth: Enhancing the broth with a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar will add a delightful complexity to the overall flavor.
Finding new ways to make this soup your own will surely result in cherished family memories over warm bowls. If you’re in the mood for more warming dishes, check out my recipes for Italian Penicillin Soup or Busy Day Soup. Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Hearty Sausage Potato Soup
Serving up a bowl of warmth and comfort is just the beginning; let’s make it a full meal experience!
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this rustic option provides a satisfying crunch that perfectly balances the creamy soup.
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Garlic Flatbread: The aromatic flavors of garlic pair beautifully, and its softness invites you to soak up every last drop of broth.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of crisp greens and dressing adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, these add delightful texture and a hint of sweetness, complementing the soup’s savory flavors.
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Cheddar Biscuits: Flaky and cheesy, biscuits are a wonderful companion, echoing the cheese in the soup while offering a tender bite.
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Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider enhances the cozy atmosphere and adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts the savory soup.
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Pumpkin Bars: For dessert, the soft, spiced sweetness of pumpkin bars will round out your meal perfectly, leaving a lingering feeling of warmth and comfort.
Expert Tips for Hearty Sausage Potato Soup
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture, while russets can add lightness. Avoid using waxy potatoes which can become mushy.
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Sauté Properly: Make sure to brown the sausage well; this enhances the overall flavor of your Hearty Sausage Potato Soup. Under-browning can lead to a bland taste.
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley for maximum flavor impact. Dried herbs are handy but fresh adds a brightness that’s hard to beat.
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Add Cream Gradually: Stir in the heavy cream slowly, avoiding boiling to maintain that silky consistency. Too much heat can curdle the cream and ruin your soup’s smooth texture.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to toss in some extra veggies like kale or spinach for added nutrients, but don’t overcrowd the pot, which can compromise the soup’s creamy broth.
Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best creamy texture, I recommend using Yukon gold potatoes. They naturally provide a silky consistency in the broth. If you prefer a fluffier texture, russet potatoes work beautifully too. Avoid using waxy potatoes, which can become mushy and alter the soup’s richness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can refrigerate your Hearty Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing, to keep those comforting flavors in check and ensure it stays fresh.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Hearty Sausage Potato Soup, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top for expansion. It will stay good for up to 2 months! Just remember—it’s best to add the cream after reheating so it maintains its smooth texture.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
Very! If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply warm it on the stove and stir in a bit of chicken broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency. This helps recreate that luscious, creamy feel.
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Definitely take into account any allergies! This soup contains dairy due to the heavy cream and cheddar cheese. If you want it to be gluten-free, make sure your sausage and broth are labeled as gluten-free. Additionally, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version if needed.
What can I do if I want to spice it up?
The more the merrier! You can easily adjust the spice level by opting for spicy Italian sausage instead of mild, or by adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños during the cooking process. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also provide a bright, flavorful kick.
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add potatoes and broth: Stir in diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish if desired. Enjoy!
