Potato and Sausage Chowder

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish to warm your soul, then you’ve come to the right place! This Potato and Sausage Chowder has become a beloved favorite of mine, perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. There’s something about the creamy texture and savory flavors that just feels like a big hug in a bowl.

Picture this: after a long day, you come home to the inviting aroma of this chowder simmering away. It’s quick to whip up and full of wholesome goodness, making it ideal for both a satisfying dinner or meal prep. Trust me, once you try this chowder, it’ll be on your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this chowder comes together quickly, even on the busiest days.
• Family-friendly: Kids (and adults!) love the delicious flavor and creamy texture. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chowder keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers!
• Comforting and filling: A warm bowl of this chowder is just what you need on chilly evenings—satisfying and heartwarming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome items that you probably have in your pantry. Gather these friendly ingredients for your Potato and Sausage Chowder:

For the Chowder

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g (6) sausages (any flavour)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 1 litre/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 100g/1/2 cup wild rice
• 3 potatoes (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
• 375ml/1 1/2 cups single/light cream or half-and-half
• Salt to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead of traditional sausage for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a little kick.
• Make it vegan: Substitute sausages with plant-based alternatives and use coconut milk instead of cream for a delicious vegan twist.

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the pot. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks until it’s golden brown all over. This step is essential because browning adds depth of flavor. Once cooked through, transfer it to a separate plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, toss in your chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook them over low heat for about 10 minutes until they soften. Then add minced garlic and thyme; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This process enhances their sweetness—making your chowder even more delicious!

Step 3: Create Your Base

Next, sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir until everything combines into a nice paste. Let that cook for another couple of minutes—this creates a roux that thickens your chowder beautifully! Bring back that tasty sausage into the mix.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Pour in just a bit of chicken stock at first, stirring well to combine with your roux before adding in the rest along with bay leaves and wild rice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away over low to medium heat for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Add Potatoes & Cream

Now it’s time to add those lovely cubed potatoes! Cook them along with everything else for another 15 minutes until both the wild rice and potatoes are tender. Finally, pour in that creamy goodness from your light cream or half-and-half. Season with salt (and pepper if you’d like), letting everything warm through before taking off the heat.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Potato and Sausage Chowder ready to be enjoyed! Serve with some chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch. Enjoy with loved ones around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Potato and Sausage Chowder

Making a delicious chowder is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your potato and sausage chowder turns out perfectly every time!

• Use quality sausage: The flavor of your chowder largely depends on the sausages you choose. Opt for high-quality, flavorful sausages to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Don’t rush the vegetables: Sautéing the onions, celery, and carrots slowly allows them to caramelize, bringing out their natural sweetness. This step builds a deeper flavor base for your chowder.

• Stir well when adding flour: When you sprinkle in the flour, make sure to combine it thoroughly with the fat until it forms a smooth paste (the roux). This prevents lumps in your chowder and ensures a creamy consistency.

• Adjust seasoning wisely: After adding cream, taste your chowder before serving. It’s easier to add more salt and pepper than to take it away, so adjust according to your preference!

• Let it sit before serving: If you have time, allow your chowder to rest for a few minutes after taking it off the heat. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving up potato and sausage chowder can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your presentation and experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness that beautifully contrasts with the creamy soup.
• Crumbled crackers or breadsticks: Adding a crunchy element on top provides texture that complements the rich chowder.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chowder while adding freshness.
• Garlic bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chowder, enhancing your meal with delicious flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers contrasting flavors and textures that balance perfectly with the savory chowder.

Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of goodness! Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, potato and sausage chowder is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Potato and Sausage Chowder is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it keep well, but the flavors deepen and improve as it sits. You can easily whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• When reheating, stir well and add a splash of water or extra cream if it thickens too much.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this comforting chowder.

Can I make Potato and Sausage Chowder without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

How long does Potato and Sausage Chowder last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chowder will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Can I use different types of sausage in my Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Yes! Feel free to use any flavor of sausage you like—chicken, turkey, or even veggie sausages work wonderfully!

Is this Potato and Sausage Chowder gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch mixed with water.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and comforting Potato and Sausage Chowder! It’s such a special dish that brings together hearty ingredients in a creamy, flavorful bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to warm your heart. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe—your taste buds will thank you!

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