Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas, then this Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in our home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a hearty meal that everyone loves.

What makes this soup so special is its creamy texture combined with the savory taste of Italian sausage and tender potatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up – just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do its magic while you go about your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just chop, sauté, and toss everything into the crockpot – it’s that simple!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting soup; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy broth, savory sausage, and tender potatoes creates an irresistible dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients for a delightful bowl of comfort. Each one plays an essential role in creating that rich, cheesy broth filled with hearty potatoes.

• 1 lb Italian-style sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch chunks
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 0.5 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning blend
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this crockpot potato soup is its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or celery for extra nutrition and crunch.
• Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Make it vegan-friendly: Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. This step adds great flavor to your soup! Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. This step helps develop their flavors further before they join the party in the crockpot!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the sausage mixture to your crockpot. Then add diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Stir everything together well so all those flavors get acquainted.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until potatoes are fork-tender. The slow cooking allows all those ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue cooking until the cheese melts into that creamy goodness we all love!

Step 6: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Give your soup a taste-test! Adjust seasoning if needed so every bite is just right.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy each comforting spoonful!

This Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is sure to become a staple in your home just like it is in ours! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage

Making this hearty soup is a breeze, but a few tips can help you elevate it to the next level!

• Choose the Right Sausage: Selecting either mild or spicy Italian-style sausage allows you to customize the flavor profile of your soup. Consider your audience’s taste preferences for the best results.

• Sautéing Matters: Don’t skip the step of sautéing the sausage, onion, and garlic! This process enhances the flavors and adds depth to your soup, making every spoonful more delicious.

• Adjust Creaminess: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. This keeps the soup creamy while accommodating different dietary needs.

• Texture Preference: For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes in the crockpot about an hour before serving. This gives your soup a lovely creamy texture without needing extra flour or cornstarch.

• Season to Taste: Always taste before serving! Depending on your broth brand, you might need a little more salt or pepper. Adjusting seasoning at the end ensures it’s just right for everyone.

How to Serve Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage

Serving this delicious potato soup can be as fun and creative as making it! Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully and enhance the dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Chives: Their mild onion flavor adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens up your bowl.
• Crispy Bacon Bits: (Use turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives) A sprinkle on top provides a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds tanginess and richness that complements the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment, perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens tossed in a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the potato soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Steamed Broccoli: This veggie side dish is packed with nutrients and brings a nice touch of color alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
• Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches cut into triangles make for an indulgent pairing, perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage will be not only satisfying but also impressively presented! Enjoy each warm bowlful surrounded by good company.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating in the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this cozy recipe!

Can I make Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute Italian-style sausage with a plant-based sausage or skip it altogether. Add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for flavor and texture!

How long can I store my Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option—just remember it lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add other vegetables to my potato soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the vegetables you choose.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting properties and flavor, you can also try using Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you have dietary preferences.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Always check labels when purchasing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage as I am! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days. Enjoy every creamy spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any variations you try out. Happy cooking!