As the chill of autumn creeps in, I find myself drawn to cozy, soul-soothing meals that evoke comfort and warmth. That’s when I decided to whip up a pot of Creamy Sausage Potato Soup. This hearty dish combines the savory essence of Italian sausage with buttery baby potatoes and vibrant vegetables, creating a meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.
You know those days when you need something that’s both delicious and easy to throw together? This soup is your answer! Its creamy texture envelops you like a warm hug, and every spoonful is packed with flavors that remind me of family dinners at home. The lovely combination of seasonings upgrades the meal from simple to spectacular, making it a family favorite from the first taste.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your comfort food game, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will keep your loved ones coming back for more!
Why is Sausage Potato Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This hearty soup is perfect for chilly nights, wrapping you in cozy flavors that feel like a hug from the inside.
Simple preparation: With easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: The blend of savory Italian sausage and creamy potatoes creates a delightful balance that pleases everyone at the table.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to personalize this dish and cater to dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
With its rich flavors and comforting appeal, you’ll want to make Sausage Potato Soup your go-to recipe for every season!
Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the essence of comforting flavors with these simple, wholesome ingredients.
For the Soup Base
- Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth; use mild for a family-friendly dish or hot for a spicy kick.
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for a rich flavor; perfect for sautéing your mirepoix to golden perfection.
- Olive Oil – Prevents sticking during sautéing; can be substituted with vegetable oil if preferred.
- Mirepoix (Carrots, Celery, Onion) – This aromatic trio adds sweetness and depth; using pre-chopped can save you time.
- Minced Garlic – Elevates the soup’s aroma and flavor; fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
For the Heartiness
- Baby Gold Potatoes – Contributes delicious creaminess without the hassle of peeling; perfect for easy prep.
- Chicken Stock or Broth – The flavorful foundation of the soup; swap it for vegetable stock for a veggie-friendly version.
For Thickening and Creaminess
- Flour – Thickens the soup to that perfect consistency; use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Milk (1%, 2%, or Whole) – Adds velvety creaminess; non-dairy milk can work beautifully as a substitute.
- Heavy Cream – For that extra richness; feel free to omit for a lighter twist.
For the Finishing Touches
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to suit your taste.
- Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Brings a sharp, vibrant flavor; shred fresh cheese for the best melting experience.
- Sour Cream – Adds a delightful tang; can be left out for a dairy-free version.
Optional Garnishes
- Hearty Buttered Bread – Perfect for dipping; it elevates your serving experience to a cozy meal.
- Dried Parsley & Basil – Fresh herbs can really kick up the flavor profile; consider using them for a fresher taste.
With these delightful Sausage Potato Soup ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a memorable dish that can warm hearts and bellies alike!
How to Make Sausage Potato Soup
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Brown the Sausage:
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside for later. -
Sauté the Mirepoix:
In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter and add the mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion). Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. -
Add Potatoes and Seasonings:
Stir in the baby gold potatoes, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. -
Prepare the Roux:
In a separate medium pot, melt the remaining butter to prepare a roux. Whisk in the flour to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk while whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. -
Combine the Mixtures:
Incorporate the roux into the soup mixture, stirring gently. Next, stir in the extra-sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy. Return the browned sausage to the pot and adjust the seasoning as needed. -
Serve Warm:
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and serve it warm with optional buttered bread for dipping.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for extra flavor before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sausage Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the mirepoix and slice the baby potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the sausage can be cooked and stored separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the mirepoix with butter, pour in the chicken stock, and simmer until the potatoes are tender before stirring in the roux and cheese mixture. This way, your soup stays just as delicious and comforting as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Sausage Potato Soup
Fresh Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach just before serving for a burst of color and nutrition without overpowering the soup.
Uniform Cuts: Make sure to cut your baby potatoes into similar sizes for even cooking and to achieve that perfect tenderness throughout.
Shredded Cheese: Always use freshly shredded extra-sharp cheddar; it melts beautifully and prevents clumping, ensuring a creamy Sausage Potato Soup.
Season Adjustments: Taste and adjust your seasoning at the end; the flavors meld during cooking, and you might want a little extra salt and pepper.
Storage Know-How: For longer storage, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, ensuring maximum freshness when reheating.
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup
Fridge: Keep your creamy Sausage Potato Soup in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in single-serving portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will maintain quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Cooling: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing; this helps preserve its creamy texture and delicious flavors.
What to Serve with Sausage Potato Soup?
This delightful dish warms the soul and pairs beautifully with comforting sides to create a full meal experience.
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Hearty Buttered Bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping, it enhances the creamy soup with a satisfying crunch.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Their buttery, garlicky flavor complements the soup while providing a delightful texture contrast.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the meal while cutting through the richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies brings a pop of flavor and color, making your meal even more comforting.
A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers offers delightful sweetness to complement the savory soup. -
Cheesy Croutons: When scattered atop the soup, they add a nice crunch and melty goodness that takes each spoonful up a notch.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a sweet ending, its aromas mingling nicely with the savory flavors of the meal.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing drink option, it cleanses the palate and integrates refreshing zest with every sip.
Incorporating a few of these pairings will elevate your lovely Sausage Potato Soup into a memorable family meal.
Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this comforting soup with these delicious variations!
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Lean & Healthy: Swap Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter yet flavorful version.
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Veggie Delight: Add leeks, bell peppers, or green beans for extra nutrients and a burst of color in your bowl. A simple twist like this can elevate the entire dish.
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Creamy Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower florets for the potatoes; they still provide a creamy texture when blended.
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Spice it Up: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup a delightful kick that warms you from the inside out.
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Herb Fusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an elevated flavor profile that adds depth to every spoonful.
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Dairy-Free Bliss: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk and omit the heavy cream for a creamy yet dairy-free option that’s equally satisfying.
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Nutty Flour: Choose almond flour instead of regular flour for thickening to make this recipe gluten-free while keeping the scrumptious taste intact.
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Cheesy Variants: For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to mix in some pepper jack cheese along with the cheddar for a delightful, cheesy, and spicy touch.
Customizing your Sausage Potato Soup with these variations could lead to a new family favorite that everyone will love!
Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of Italian sausage should I use?
I recommend using either mild or hot Italian sausage depending on your spice preference. Mild sausage provides a family-friendly flavor, while hot sausage gives a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat!
How should I store leftover Sausage Potato Soup?
Store your creamy Sausage Potato Soup in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring, as this helps maintain the soup’s creamy texture and rich flavors.
Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in single-serving portions using airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your soup thickens too much upon reheating, simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth, and stir until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps it creamy and flavorful.
Is there a vegetarian version of Sausage Potato Soup?
Yes! You can swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage substitute, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. This way, you can enjoy a hearty and flavorful soup that caters to vegetarian dietary preferences!
Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Definitely! Non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk. Just be sure to choose a variety that is unsweetened to keep the savory flavor balanced.
Hearty Sausage Potato Soup for Ultimate Comfort on Cold Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside for later.
- In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter and add the mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion). Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the baby gold potatoes, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a separate medium pot, melt the remaining butter to prepare a roux. Whisk in the flour to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk while whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the roux into the soup mixture, stirring gently. Next, stir in the extra-sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy. Return the browned sausage to the pot and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and serve it warm with optional buttered bread for dipping.