Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that warms your heart and fills your belly, then Sausage Potato Soup is just what you need! This delightful dish is the perfect blend of creamy goodness and hearty flavors, thanks to the Italian sausage, baby potatoes, and fresh veggies swimming in a rich broth. It’s a family favorite at my house for good reason—it’s incredibly satisfying and makes for wonderful leftovers!

Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this soup brings everyone together. Just imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers away. It’s truly a bowl of happiness on chilly days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and reheat—perfect for meal prep or busy evenings.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of Italian sausage and cheesy goodness makes this soup a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Sausage Potato Soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find 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
• Hearty buttered bread (for serving, optional)

Variations

This Sausage Potato Soup recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or pantry staples.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat in your soup.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with gouda or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about 1 minute. Use a wooden spoon to crumble it as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned. This step is essential because browning adds depth of flavor that makes the soup irresistible. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot with just enough grease left behind (add olive oil if needed), melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add your mirepoix—diced carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté for 5–7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that will enhance your soup.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Stir in the chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Base

While your potatoes are cooking away, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in another pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth—this creates a roux that will give your soup its creamy texture. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until thickened and gently boiling. Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are tender, gently stir in that creamy mixture into the soup pot. Turn off the heat and add shredded cheese gradually while stirring—it melts beautifully into the mixture! Then mix in sour cream for an extra touch of richness before returning the sausage back into its comforting home.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve up warm bowls of this delicious Sausage Potato Soup with hearty buttered bread on the side if you like! Enjoy every last drop as smiles fill your table.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this cozy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure it’s just perfect every time!

• Choose the right sausage – Opt for quality Italian sausage that fits your taste preference. The flavor of the sausage is essential to the soup, so selecting a good one will enhance the overall taste.

• Don’t skip the browning – Browning the sausage not only adds depth of flavor but also creates a wonderful base for the soup. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, savory taste.

• Adjust thickness as desired – If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a little more flour to the milk mixture or reduce the amount of broth. Conversely, adding extra broth will make it lighter and more soupy.

• Experiment with veggies – Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. They add nutritional value and color to your dish while keeping it exciting!

• Make it ahead of time – This soup actually tastes better the next day! Make it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving this comforting Sausage Potato Soup is all about presentation and pairing it with delicious accompaniments that make your meal complete.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness to each bowl.
• Crumbled bacon bits – For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, top with crispy bacon bits (optional).
• Shredded cheese – A little extra cheese on top can never hurt! It melts beautifully into the warm soup.

Side Dishes

• Hearty buttered bread – Serve with thick slices of buttered bread for dipping into the creamy goodness of your soup. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
• Mixed green salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Garlic breadsticks – Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup while adding an irresistible aroma.
• Roasted vegetables – Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and makes for an excellent side dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Sausage Potato Soup will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented for family and friends. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Here are some tips on how to store and enjoy your delicious soup later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If the soup thickens too much while stored, you can add a little extra broth or milk when reheating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Potato Soup.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage in this Sausage Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative that will still give you that savory flavor without the pork. Just choose your favorite seasoning, and you’ll have a lighter version of this comforting soup.

What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream for my Sausage Potato Soup?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative—you’ll still get that creamy texture!

How do I make this Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply replace the sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and omit any animal-derived ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Sausage Potato Soup recipe as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for sharing with loved ones on chilly days. Enjoy making it in your kitchen, and don’t hesitate to put your own twist on it. Happy cooking!