Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Sausage Potato Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It combines rich flavors and creamy goodness, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. There’s something so comforting about a bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with Italian sausage, baby potatoes, and tender veggies. Each spoonful is like a warm hug on a chilly day!

I love how easy this recipe is to whip up, yet it tastes like it took all day to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this soup is sure to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this Sausage Potato Soup so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and quick prep time, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and delicious flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer—perfect for meal prep!
• Comforting flavor: The combination of sausage and cheesy goodness makes every bite satisfying.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or seasonings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients can be part of the joy of cooking! For this Sausage Potato Soup, you’ll need some basic but hearty items that come together beautifully.

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

To Finish

• 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

This Sausage Potato Soup is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or corn for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk and dairy-free cheese for a creamy vegan version.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your Italian sausage and let it sear for about one minute. Using a wooden spoon, crumble it as it cooks until it’s deeply browned. This browning adds depth of flavor! Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Leave about one tablespoon of grease in the pot; if there’s not enough, feel free to add a splash of olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In that same pot, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add your mirepoix—this mix of diced carrots, celery, and onion—and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. It’s important to cook these until they’re soft; they will add sweetness to our soup! After that, toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those beautiful chopped baby potatoes along with dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender and ready for their cheesy makeover!

Step 4: Make It Creamy

While those lovely veggies are cooking away, let’s create our creamy mixture! In a separate medium pot over medium heat, melt four tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute while stirring constantly—this helps eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Keep whisking until everything thickens up nicely before adding heavy cream; then remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are tender, stir in that luscious milk/cream mixture into the soup pot. Now turn off the heat! Add shredded cheese gradually—stirring gently until melted—followed by sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess. Finally, return your cooked sausage back into the pot and taste-test for seasoning adjustments with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle your hearty Sausage Potato Soup into bowls while it’s still warm! If you’re feeling indulgent (and who isn’t?), serve it with some hearty buttered bread on the side. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Creating the perfect Sausage Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right sausage: Opt for mild or hot Italian sausage based on your heat preference. The sausage’s flavor will be a key player in your soup’s overall taste.

• Don’t skip the mirepoix: This aromatic blend of carrots, celery, and onion adds depth and sweetness to your soup. Sautéing them until they’re soft brings out their natural flavors.

• Whisk the milk mixture thoroughly: When adding flour to the butter, ensure you whisk continuously to prevent lumps. A smooth base will lead to a creamy and luscious soup.

• Add cheese gradually: Stir in the shredded cheese a handful at a time. This allows it to melt evenly, creating that deliciously cheesy texture throughout the soup.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasonings is key! Be sure to taste your soup before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference in flavor.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving your Sausage Potato Soup can transform it into an inviting meal that warms both body and soul. Here are some charming ways to present this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Additional shredded cheese: A sprinkle of extra-sharp Cheddar on top not only looks appealing but also enhances that cheesy goodness when it melts slightly over the warm soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of hearty buttered bread is perfect for dipping into this creamy soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic knots: These buttery, garlicky treats are heavenly alongside any soup; their chewy texture pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of Sausage Potato Soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots can provide a lovely contrast with their caramelized sweetness, rounding out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience with your homemade Sausage Potato Soup! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

Sausage Potato Soup is a fantastic recipe for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Here’s how you can store it properly to enjoy later.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Consider portioning out servings for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool thoroughly.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To save space, consider freezing in smaller portions.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious Sausage Potato Soup! Here are a few common ones:

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and maintain the rest of the ingredients as is for a hearty vegetarian version.

What kind of cheese is best for Sausage Potato Soup?

Extra-sharp Cheddar cheese works wonderfully because it melts beautifully and adds rich flavor. However, feel free to mix it up with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère if you prefer!

How long does Sausage Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Sausage Potato Soup will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add more veggies to Sausage Potato Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly based on how quickly they cook.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Sausage Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping for busy days ahead. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this soup is sure to warm your heart and home. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any twists you put on this recipe—happy cooking!