Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms both the heart and the soul, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe—Sausage Potato Soup! This delightful soup is a hug in a bowl, packed with rich flavors from Italian sausage, creamy broth, and tender potatoes. It’s an incredible choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings, where everyone will gather around the table to enjoy a warm bowl of goodness.

Not only is this Sausage Potato Soup deliciously satisfying, but it also has a wonderful way of bringing people together. There’s something about sharing a hearty meal that makes any occasion feel special. Trust me; once you serve this up, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this soup ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and savory sausage.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Comforting Flavor: It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day—comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Sausage Potato Soup is simple! You’ll find that the ingredients are wholesome and easy to come by. Here’s what you need:

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

One of the best parts about this Sausage Potato Soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute almond milk and vegan cheese to make this soup dairy-free while still keeping it creamy.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about one minute. Use a wooden spoon to crumble it as it cooks. This step is vital because browning the sausage brings out those delicious flavors that will enhance your soup. Once it’s deeply browned, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Then add in your mirepoix—those lovely diced carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they start softening. Adding minced garlic at this stage gives off an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Stock

Now it’s time for those lovely baby gold potatoes! Stir them into the mix along with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in your chicken stock and bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until those potatoes become fork-tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

While your veggies are cooking away, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in another medium pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook it for about one minute. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly until smooth. This step creates a creamy base that thickens nicely; keep whisking until it gently boils before adding heavy cream.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your veggies are tender, stir in that velvety milk mixture into your soup pot. Turn off the heat and gradually add in shredded cheese while stirring gently until melted. Lastly, mix in sour cream before returning the cooked sausage back into your pot. Taste-test and adjust seasoning as needed!

Step 6: Serve Up Your Comfort

Serve this beautiful Sausage Potato Soup warm with hearty buttered bread on the side if you’d like! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, and following these pro tips can take your soup to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your soup, making each bowl taste vibrant and wholesome.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a bit of heat, opt for hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will give your soup an extra kick that many enjoy.

• Thicken to Your Liking: If you desire a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer after adding the milk mixture. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a richer texture.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your soup to sit for 15-20 minutes after cooking can deepen the flavors as they meld together, resulting in an even tastier dish.

• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day! Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup is all about creating an inviting atmosphere that makes every bowl feel like a warm hug. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness that enhances both taste and appearance.
• Crumbled Cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a tangy note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup base.

Side Dishes

• Hearty Buttered Bread: A classic pairing, this warm bread is perfect for dipping into your rich soup, adding texture and satisfaction.
• Simple Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers provide a wonderful contrast in flavors and textures, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These crispy delights are perfect for sopping up any remaining broth while adding delightful garlic flavor to each bite.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, your Sausage Potato Soup will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented—ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or planned lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep flavors fresh, consider storing sausage separately if you plan to enjoy leftovers over several days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot.
• Add a splash of milk or cream if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sausage Potato Soup.

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freeze it for later enjoyment.

What ingredients can I substitute in Sausage Potato Soup?

You can use chicken or vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Also, feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrition!

Is Sausage Potato Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend when creating the creamy base.

How do I make Sausage Potato Soup spicier?

If you prefer a kick of heat, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Its rich, creamy goodness combined with hearty ingredients makes it a comforting dish you’ll want to share with family and friends. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for cozy nights and gatherings alike. Happy cooking!