Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and soul, look no further! This Sausage Potato Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Every spoonful brings comfort, and it’s so satisfying that it quickly becomes a go-to recipe in any home.

What makes this soup even more special is how easy it comes together. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip it up even on the busiest of days. Plus, who doesn’t love a hearty bowl of soup paired with some crusty bread? It’s truly the essence of comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just about 55 minutes, you can have a delicious pot of soup ready to serve.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it great for family dinners.
• Flexible ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep!
• Cheesy goodness: With two types of cheese, every bite is rich and creamy—what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this creamy Sausage Potato Soup, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

Fresh Ingredients

• 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

Dairy Components

• 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

Optional Serving Suggestion

• Hearty buttered bread (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this Sausage Potato Soup is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use turkey sausage or chicken sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños!
• Try different cheeses: Swap out the Cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

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 one minute before using a wooden spoon to crumble it. Cook until the sausage is deeply browned; this step adds so much flavor to your soup! Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate lined with paper towels while leaving about one tablespoon of grease in the pot. If there’s not enough grease left behind, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add in your mirepoix—this trio of carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté for about 5–7 minutes. Stirring frequently helps develop their flavors. After they start softening up, toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant; this will give your soup an amazing aroma!

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Next up are those lovely baby gold potatoes! Stir them into the vegetable mixture along with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until those potatoes are fork-tender—a little patience here makes all the difference!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Base

While your veggies are cooking away, melt four tablespoons of butter in another medium pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute while stirring constantly; this creates a roux which gives your soup that creamy texture. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Keep whisking as it thickens up—this process is key! Once bubbly and thickened slightly, stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once those potatoes are tender, it’s time for magic! Stir in your creamy mixture from step four into the big pot of veggies and broth. Turn off the heat and add shredded cheese gradually while stirring gently until melted—it’s going to be so cheesy! Fold in sour cream next before returning that deliciously cooked sausage back into your soup pot. Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Your Sausage Potato Soup is now ready to enjoy! Ladle generous portions into bowls while serving warm with hearty buttered bread on the side if desired. Trust me; this comforting dish will become an instant favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Nothing beats a warm bowl of Sausage Potato Soup on a chilly day! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your soup-making game.

• Use high-quality sausage: Selecting a good quality Italian sausage will enhance the flavor of your soup. Look for fresh, seasoned sausage without fillers for the best taste.

• Prep your veggies uniformly: Cutting your mirepoix and potatoes into similar-sized pieces ensures even cooking. This way, all the ingredients become tender at the same time, creating a harmonious texture in every bite.

• Don’t rush the cheese melting: Adding shredded cheese in handfuls allows it to melt more evenly into the soup. This prevents clumping and gives you that smooth, creamy consistency everyone loves.

• Adjust seasoning as needed: Tasting is crucial! Adjusting salt and pepper at the end helps fine-tune the flavors to your preference. Sometimes a pinch more can make all the difference!

• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Consider making a big batch and storing leftovers for an easy meal later in the week.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup is just as fun as making it! A few thoughtful touches can turn your simple soup into a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or chives: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each serving.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan not only enhances flavor but also adds a touch of gourmet flair to your bowl.
• Croutons or crispy bacon bits: For those who enjoy crunch, adding croutons or crispy bits can provide texture contrast against the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this cheesy soup. It’s great for dipping and soaking up every last drop!
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding nutritional value.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as Brussels sprouts or carrots make for a colorful and nutritious side that complements the heartiness of the soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors, making it an excellent companion to your creamy soup.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your family and friends! Enjoy this comforting bowl of Sausage Potato Soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily frozen, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled soup in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, do so over low heat while stirring frequently to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Sausage Potato Soup.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with turkey sausage or plant-based alternatives if you’re looking for lighter options. Each will give your soup a unique flavor!

How can I make my Sausage Potato Soup healthier?

To make your Sausage Potato Soup lighter, consider using skim milk instead of whole milk and reducing the amount of cheese. You could also add more vegetables to increase its nutritional value.

Can I prepare Sausage Potato Soup in advance?

Yes! This soup is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer. Check out our storage tips above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Sausage Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your thoughts on how yours turned out!