When it’s cold outside, nothing warms you up like a bowl of Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup!
This hearty dish blends the smoky flavor of sausage with the creamy richness of a perfectly seasoned broth.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a must-try.
Let’s dive into a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is limited.
- Budget-Friendly: Combines simple, affordable ingredients into a gourmet meal.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for dietary preferences or ingredient swaps.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers for a comforting meal anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious soup, you’ll need:
Core Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked or Italian sausage (sliced or crumbled)
- 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra creaminess)
- Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Substitute Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
How to Make Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup
Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl of soup:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
- Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Alternatively, transfer 1-2 cups of soup to a blender, purée, and return it to the pot.
- Incorporate Cream and Sausage: Stir in the heavy cream and cooked sausage. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Optional Add-ins: Add kale or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.
- Loaded Version: Top with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with: Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Dietary Adaptations: Make it keto by using fewer potatoes and adding cauliflower florets instead.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Avoid boiling, as it may cause the cream to separate.
FAQ’s
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients (except the cream and optional add-ins) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream before serving.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a delightful sweetness to the soup. Just note that the texture will be slightly different.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
You can mash some of the potatoes or mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup while it simmers.
Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked or Italian sausage sliced or crumbled
- 4 medium russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Substitute Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
- Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Alternatively, transfer 1-2 cups of soup to a blender, purée, and return it to the pot.
- Incorporate Cream and Sausage: Stir in the heavy cream and cooked sausage. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Optional Add-ins: Add kale or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.