Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Sausage Potato Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that remind me of home. Every time I make this soup, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re feeding a busy family after work or hosting friends for a gathering, this hearty soup is sure to be a hit!

The best part? It comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for those weeknight dinners when you need something delicious without all the fuss. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Sausage Potato Soup can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with kid-approved flavors, it’s a meal everyone will enjoy!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for even busier days.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy texture and savory ingredients provide that ultimate comfort food experience.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Sausage Potato Soup uses simple, wholesome items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For the Creamy Mixture

• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Seasoning and Garnish

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For Serving

• Hearty buttered bread (optional)

Variations

One of the reasons I love this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and cheese alternatives if you’re avoiding dairy.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about a minute. Use a wooden spoon to crumble it as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning the sausage will deepen its flavor. Once it’s nicely browned, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot—this will add richness to the soup. If there’s not enough grease left behind, feel free to add a bit of olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add in your mirepoix—diced carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Don’t forget to add minced garlic during the last 30 seconds of cooking; this will enhance the overall flavor beautifully!

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Next up, stir in those chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until those potatoes are 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. Stir in flour and cook while whisking constantly for about a minute—this creates a roux that thickens your soup later on! Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Continue cooking until thickened slightly—it should gently bubble. Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are tender, stir in that creamy mixture from before! Turn off the heat and slowly add shredded cheddar cheese by handfuls while stirring gently until fully melted into that delicious broth. Stir in sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess before adding back your cooked sausage.

Step 6: Serve Up Deliciousness

Serve your warm Sausage Potato Soup with hearty buttered bread on the side if you’d like! Enjoy every bite of this comfort food masterpiece.

Now you’ve got all you need to whip up this lovely dish! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful and rewarding experience, but these tips will help you take it to the next level!

• Choose the right sausage: Selecting a quality Italian sausage, whether mild or hot, can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Look for fresh sausage from a local butcher or grocery store for the best taste.
• Don’t skip the mirepoix: This blend of diced carrots, celery, and onion forms the flavorful base of your soup. Sautéing them well helps develop a rich depth of flavor that permeates the broth.
• Stir continuously when adding milk: When combining the milk and flour mixture into your soup, whisk continuously. This will prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth, creamy texture throughout.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grating your own cheese not only enhances meltability but also contributes to a richer flavor.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This final touch ensures everything is perfectly balanced and tailored to your palate.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley adds color and a fresh herbaceous note that brightens up each bowl.
• Crumbled bacon alternatives: For those who enjoy a little crunch, consider using crispy plant-based bacon or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy richness of the soup perfectly. Its crunchy exterior pairs beautifully with the soft textures in each spoonful.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add a nutritious side that enhances the comfort-food experience.
• Cheesy breadsticks: These warm, cheesy delights are perfect for dipping into your soup, making every bite even more satisfying.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Sausage Potato Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep! It’s filling, flavorful, and stores well, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• For easy thawing, consider freezing in single servings.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Sausage Potato Soup:

Can I make this Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth in place of chicken stock. The rest of the ingredients will work beautifully!

How long does Sausage Potato Soup last in the fridge?

Sausage Potato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I add other vegetables to this Sausage Potato Soup?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times as needed depending on their texture.

What type of cheese is best for this Sausage Potato Soup?

Extra-sharp Cheddar cheese works wonderfully because it adds a rich flavor. However, you can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère if you prefer!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Sausage Potato Soup warms your heart and fills your belly with comfort! It’s such a delightful dish that brings together flavors and textures that everyone loves. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner or saving some for later, I’m sure you’ll enjoy every spoonful. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on this recipe!