As the chilly winds begin to whisper through the trees, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup. Recently, while hunting for comfort in my pantry, I stumbled upon some Italian sausage and baby potatoes, which sparked the idea for my Creamy Sausage Potato Soup. Let me tell you, the moment I took my first spoonful, I was enveloped in a velvety embrace of flavors that felt like a cozy hug on a frigid day.
This soup beautifully combines rich sausage with tender potatoes and an array of fresh veggies, all swimming in a creamy broth that’s impossible to resist. It’s the type of dish that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a soothing experience, making it a go-to recipe for my family. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for any dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s create this comforting masterpiece that’s as delightful to make as it is to enjoy!
Why is Sausage Potato Soup so beloved?
Comforting warmth: This soup is like a cozy blanket on a chill night, offering rich, hearty flavors that wrap around you.
Quick prep time: With minimal hands-on time, you can whip this up on busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, it appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring empty bowls at the end of the meal.
Nutrient-packed: Featuring wholesome ingredients like veggies and protein, it satisfies both cravings and health goals.
Versatile: Easily adaptable, whether you want to swap meats or add extra greens—all while keeping the creamy goodness intact!
Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Italian sausage – Provides rich flavor and protein; choose mild or spicy according to your heat preference.
• Unsalted butter – Adds creaminess and helps sauté the vegetables, giving a luscious base.
• Olive oil – Prevents sticking and enhances flavor during the sautéing process.
• Mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) – Adds depth and balance; pre-chopped mirepoix can save you precious prep time.
• Minced garlic – Enhances the aromatic quality of the soup, making it irresistibly fragrant.
For the Creaminess
• Chopped baby gold potatoes – Provides hearty texture; leave the skin on for extra fiber and nutrition.
• Flour – Acts as a thickening agent, creating that perfect creamy texture when combined with milk.
• Milk (1%, 2%, or whole) – Delivers a creamy base; feel free to adjust according to your preference.
• Heavy cream – Enhances richness and creaminess, making every spoonful indulgent.
For Flavoring
• Dried parsley & basil – Brighten up the soup’s flavor profile with their herbal notes.
• Salt & pepper – Essential for elevating flavors; always taste and adjust to your liking.
• Chicken stock – Forms the foundation of your soup; a gluten-free option can be made using vegetable broth.
For the Topping
• Extra-sharp Cheddar cheese – Adds a robust flavor; freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully versus pre-shredded.
• Sour cream – Provides a tangy finish; can be omitted for a lighter option if desired.
For Serving
• Hearty buttered bread (optional) – Suggested for serving; adds a comforting touch that pairs perfectly with the soup.
Get ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of warmth and delicious smells as we bring this comforting Sausage Potato Soup to life!
How to Make Sausage Potato Soup
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Brown the Sausage: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer it to a plate once done.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter with olive oil. Sauté the mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) for 5–7 minutes, then add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
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Add the Potatoes: Toss in the chopped baby gold potatoes, dried parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, around 15-20 minutes.
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Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter and whisk in the flour. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in the heavy cream off the heat.
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Combine and Finish: Pour the cream mixture into the soup pot with the veggies. Gradually add the extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Add the sausage back into the pot, and mix well.
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Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with hearty buttered bread for a comforting meal.
Optional: Top with extra shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Sausage Potato Soup is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish without the last-minute rush! You can chop the vegetables and brown the sausage up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy mixture (butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream) 1-2 days ahead and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped components in a pot, heat through, and stir in the cheese until melted. This way, you can savor delicious homemade Sausage Potato Soup with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Sausage Potato Soup?
As you bring this comforting soup to the table, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete and satisfying meal.
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Hearty Buttered Bread: The warmth and crunch of buttered bread adds a delicious contrast to the creamy soup, perfect for dipping.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will brighten the meal, providing a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery bites complement the soup beautifully and are excellent for soaking up every last drop of the creamy goodness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots can offer a delightful crunchy texture, while enhancing the meal’s overall coziness.
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Cheesy Biscuit: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are a warm sidekick that pairs wonderfully with the soup. Their buttery richness melds beautifully with the creamy base.
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Sparkling Water or Cider: A light and bubbly drink helps cleanse the palate, making every spoonful of the soup even more enjoyable.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, warm apple crisp provides a sweet, comforting finish, rounding out your meal with seasonal flavors that echo the warmth of the soup.
Embrace these pairings to elevate your dining experience and create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening!
Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own and enjoy delightful twists on classic flavors!
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Turkey Sausage: Swap in turkey sausage for a lighter version with fewer calories but all the comforting flavors. You won’t miss the traditional pork!
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Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option that the whole family will love.
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Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substitute coconut milk for regular milk and cream, making it a creamy delight for those avoiding dairy.
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Green Goodness: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost—it’s a delicious way to add vitamins!
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick, transforming the soup into a warm, spicy hug.
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Roasted Garlic: Instead of minced garlic, try using roasted garlic for a sweeter, mellow flavor that adds a beautiful depth to each spoonful.
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Cheese Twist: Mix in different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a unique flavor profile—each adds its own magical creaminess.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor further by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while cooking, creating an aromatic experience that elevates this soup to the next level.
Now get creative, and enjoy the journey of transforming this already fantastic Sausage Potato Soup into something just for you!
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your Sausage Potato Soup later, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Reheating: When reheating, stir continuously and avoid boiling to keep the creamy texture intact. If the soup thickens too much, add a little chicken stock to loosen it up.
Expert Tips for Sausage Potato Soup
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and cheese amplify the flavors significantly. Opt for them whenever possible for a more vibrant soup.
• Stir Continuously: When thickening the milk mixture, constant stirring prevents it from burning, resulting in a smooth, creamy finish.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much after storing, add a splash of chicken stock while reheating to bring it back to the desired texture.
• Avoid Boiling: After adding cheese and cream, avoid boiling the soup to maintain a velvety texture.
• Customize to Taste: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on preferences, like turkey sausage for a lighter option while still enjoying the comforting essence of a classic Sausage Potato Soup.
Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Italian sausage?
Absolutely! When selecting Italian sausage, look for fresh links—those plump and with minimal processing ingredients are best. If you’re sensitive to spice, opt for mild sausage; otherwise, spicy varieties will elevate your soup with an extra kick!
How should I store my Sausage Potato Soup leftovers?
Very! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, do it gradually on the stove over low heat or in the microwave to keep it creamy and delicious.
Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup?
Of course! To freeze, allow the soup to cool to room temperature and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a little chicken stock if it gets too thick.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
No problem! If your soup becomes too thick, simply add a splash of chicken stock while reheating and stir well. This will help loosen it up and restore that lovely creamy texture everyone loves.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re making this soup for a family member with dietary restrictions, consider swapping the Italian sausage for turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour alternative and ensure your chicken stock is gluten-free as well!
Comforting Sausage Potato Soup for Chilly Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Sausage: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer it to a plate once done.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter with olive oil. Sauté the mirepoix for 5–7 minutes, then add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes: Toss in the chopped baby gold potatoes, dried parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, around 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter and whisk in the flour. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in the heavy cream off the heat.
- Combine and Finish: Pour the cream mixture into the soup pot with the veggies. Gradually add the extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Add the sausage back into the pot, and mix well.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with hearty buttered bread for a comforting meal.