Name: Sausage Potato Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort for Cold Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian Sausage (Choose mild or hot based on your spice preference); 5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Feel free to use salted butter but reduce other salt); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can be swapped with any neutral oil); 2.25 cups Mirepoix (Fresh or frozen works perfectly!); 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic; 4 cups Chopped Baby Gold Potatoes (No peeling needed); 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil; 4 cups Chicken Stock or Broth (Swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist); 6 tablespoons Flour; 3 cups Milk (1%/2%/whole, consider plant-based substitutes); 0.5 cup Heavy Cream; 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to your taste!); 0.5 teaspoon Pepper; 2 cups Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Freshly shredded melts better); 0.25 cup Sour Cream; Hearty Buttered Bread (Optional for serving)

As I curled up with my favorite blanket on a chilly evening, the aroma wafting from the kitchen transported me to a haven of warmth and comfort. That’s when I decided it was time to whip up a batch of my creamy Sausage Potato Soup. This hearty dish combines the savory richness of Italian sausage with tender baby potatoes, creating a cozy meal that’s just perfect for braving the cold. Not only is it a cinch to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that will bring smiles to everyone at your table. Whether you’re huddled with family or hosting friends, this meal invites delightful conversations and satisfied bellies. Curious how to create this bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Sausage Potato Soup so comforting?

Warmth and Comfort: This creamy Sausage Potato Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it the ultimate comfort food for cold nights.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that warms both the heart and soul.
Flavor Explosion: The savory Italian sausage and tender potatoes meld together to deliver a rich flavor profile that your family will crave.
Great for Leftovers: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready whenever hunger strikes.
Versatile Options: Want to mix it up? Try using turkey sausage for a lighter twist or add fresh vegetables for extra nutrition.
Whether served with crusty bread or alongside a delightful salad, this dish is sure to impress!

Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to make your cozy bowl of Sausage Potato Soup!

For the Soup

Italian Sausage (1 pound) – Provides the flavorful base; choose mild or hot based on your spice preference.
Unsalted Butter (5 tablespoons) – Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies; feel free to use salted butter but reduce other salt.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Great for sautéing; can be swapped with any neutral oil you have on hand.
Mirepoix (2-1/4 cups or 3/4 cup each diced carrots, celery, and onion) – Offers depth and sweetness; fresh or frozen mirepoix works perfectly!
Minced Garlic (1 teaspoon) – Infuses a delightful aromatic flavor into the soup.
Chopped Baby Gold Potatoes (4 cups) – No peeling needed; these are the heart of your creamy soup.
Dried Parsley (1 teaspoon) – Enhances freshness in every spoonful.
Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) – Complements the sausage beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor.
Chicken Stock or Broth (4 cups) – Acts as the soup’s main base; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Flour (6 tablespoons) – Helps thicken the soup for that creamy texture you’ll love.
Milk (3 cups, 1%/2%/whole) – Contributes to the creamy body; consider plant-based substitutes for a different flair.
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – Adds a velvety richness that makes this dish indulgent.
Salt (1 teaspoon) – Brings out all the flavors; adjust to your taste!
Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Provides a touch of mild heat for balance.
Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Delivers a cheesy flavor and thickens the soup; freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded.
Sour Cream (1/4 cup) – Adds a delightful tangy creaminess to each bowl.
Hearty Buttered Bread (optional for serving) – Complements the soup perfectly, making a complete meal.

This ingredient list will ensure you have everything ready to whip up a comforting pot of Sausage Potato Soup that will warm you from the inside out!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and allow it to sear for about 1 minute before crumbling it into small pieces. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot, leaving some of the delicious grease behind.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the mirepoix (the diced carrots, celery, and onion) and sauté for about 5-10 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until the garlic is aromatic, ensuring a flavorful base for your Sausage Potato Soup.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Stock
Next, stir in the chopped baby gold potatoes, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Base
In a separate medium pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking it for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously, cooking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and remove from heat, creating a luxurious base for the soup.

Step 5: Combine and Finalize the Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, return to the pot and slowly pour in the creamy mixture along with the shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and integrated, creating a rich and hearty Sausage Potato Soup. Add the browned sausage back into the pot and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy Sausage Potato Soup into bowls and serve warm. For an extra touch, garnish with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Optionally, pair your soup with hearty buttered bread for a complete and comforting meal that will warm you from the inside out on cold nights.

Variations & Substitutions for Sausage Potato Soup

Feel free to get creative and make this cozy Sausage Potato Soup your own with these delightful twists!

Lighten Up: Use turkey sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. It subtly changes the dish while keeping the heartiness intact.
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, or add canned beans for extra protein. This version still packs a punch of flavor!
Cheese Swap: Experiment with gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a unique spin. Each cheese brings its own rich character to the soup.
Creamy Alternatives: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of regular milk and heavy cream for a dairy-free version. It adds a subtle sweetness that complements the sausage beautifully.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for a boost of nutrients and color. Each spoonful will feel even more wholesome!
Flavor Boost: For an added kick, mix in some smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile. Spicing things up can make the meal more exciting!
Herb Blend: Try switching out dried basil for fresh thyme or rosemary for a fresh fragrance that brings an enticing aroma to your kitchen. Each herb has its own unique flair.
Sweet Twist: Amp up the flavor by adding a small dose of corn or diced sweet potatoes; they can bring a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory sausage.

If you’re looking for more comforting soup options, check out my delicious Chicken Noodle Soup or try warming up with a bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Each recipe is sure to please!

How to Store and Freeze Sausage Potato Soup

Fridge: Store cooled Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat over low heat on the stove while stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing, and label with the date.
Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring to combine the ingredients before serving.
Reheating Tip: If the soup thickens after freezing, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Expert Tips for Sausage Potato Soup

Perfectly Browned Sausage: Ensure you brown the sausage well; this enhances the depth of flavor in your Sausage Potato Soup. Don’t rush this step!
Evenly Cut Veggies: Chop your mirepoix and potatoes into uniform sizes for consistent cooking. This prevents some pieces from getting mushy while others remain firm.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; your soup should sing with flavor, and a touch more salt or pepper can make all the difference!
Store Wisely: Let the soup cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat on low heat to maintain the creamy texture without separation.
Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to substitute the extra-sharp cheddar with your favorite cheese! Different cheeses can add unique flavor profiles to the soup.

Make Ahead Options

These creamy Sausage Potato Soup preparations are ideal for busy weeknights and can save you valuable time! You can chop the mirepoix and even slice the baby potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The sausage can also be cooked and stored separately for up to 3 days before mixing. When you’re ready to enjoy this heartfelt soup, simply sauté the veggies as instructed, add the prepped sausage, and follow through to complete the recipe. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, ensuring that your comforting Sausage Potato Soup is just as delightful as if made from scratch in one go!

What to Serve with Sausage Potato Soup?

Cozy up your table with these delightful pairings that will elevate your hearty bowl of comfort.

Hearty Buttered Bread: This is the perfect side for your soup, providing a satisfying crunch and a great way to soak up the creamy goodness.
Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness, complementing the savory depth of the sausage in the soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter create an irresistible pairing, making your meal feel extra special.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits add a delightful flavor and texture, perfect for completing your soup experience.
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A slightly sweet and refreshing drink, iced tea with hints of citrus can cleanse the palate between spoonfuls of creamy soup.
Classic Apple Pie: For dessert, serve a warm slice of apple pie topped with vanilla ice cream; a sweet finish to your comfort food feast.

Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of sausage is best for Sausage Potato Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using Italian sausage, whether it be mild or spicy, based on your spice preference. You can also experiment with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian variant. The choice of sausage greatly influences the overall taste, so choose one that you love!

How should I store leftover Sausage Potato Soup?
To keep your soup fresh, store cooled Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation that could make it soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on low heat to maintain that creamy texture.

Can I freeze Sausage Potato Soup?
Certainly! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much!

How can I prevent my soup from getting too thick when reheating?
Great question! If you find your soup thickened a bit too much after freezing, simply stir in a little milk or broth while reheating on low heat. This will help to restore the creamy consistency and ensure every bowl is just as delicious as the first.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If serving to guests with dietary restrictions, make sure to ask if they have any allergies. For those who are lactose intolerant, you can use plant-based milk and skip the heavy cream or cheese. Additionally, if you have friends or family with gluten sensitivities, be sure to substitute the flour with a cornstarch slurry or gluten-free thickening agent.

What should I do if my Sausage Potato Soup tastes bland?
No worries at all! If you find your soup lacks flavor, it could be beneficial to adjust the seasoning. Start by tasting the soup and adding a pinch more salt or some extra herbs, like dried basil or freshly chopped parsley. You can also add a splash of vinegar or hot sauce for a little zest and depth. Remember, seasoning is key to a rich, comforting flavor!