As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the evening chill creeping through the windows, I felt that unmistakable urge for comfort—a longing best met with a bowl of hearty soup. That’s when the thought of my Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder came rushing in, a creamy, one-pot wonder that warms both the belly and the soul. This recipe is a true lifesaver, effortlessly combining rich, satisfying flavors and quick prep, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to skip the fast food. With a few simple ingredients and the option to make it dairy-free, this chowder is not only customizable but also a delightful crowd-pleaser for family gatherings. Ready to dive into a comforting bowl of goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is This Chowder a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: A bowl of our Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
One-Pot Wonder: Simplifying your dinner prep, this recipe is all about minimal mess and maximum flavor, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.
Flavor Packed: The harmonious blend of savory sausage, creamy broth, and seasoned vegetables creates a rich taste that outshines any fast food option.
Customizable Delight: Want it dairy-free? Simply swap in coconut milk. You can even add in your favorite veggies like corn or peppers for a personalized touch!
Whether served alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad, this chowder promises to be a hit that lingers in your family’s hearts long after the last spoonful.

Potato and Sausage Chowder Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in sautéing; can use vegetable oil if preferred.
• Sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken) – Provides the hearty, smoky flavor essential to chowder; use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
• Yellow Onion – Builds flavor through caramelization; sweet onion can be used for a milder taste.
• Garlic Cloves – Enhances aroma and flavor; garlic powder can work in smaller quantities if fresh is unavailable.
• Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes – Main ingredient for heartiness and texture; be sure to peel and dice them for even cooking.
• Chicken Broth – Savory liquid base for the chowder; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess to the chowder; full-fat coconut milk makes a great dairy-free option.
For Seasoning
• Dried Thyme – Provides earthy notes that complement the soup.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds smoky depth; regular paprika can be used for less intensity.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Optional Add-Ins
• Corn Kernels – For a sweet crunch and added texture.
• Shredded Cheddar – Enhances creaminess and flavor; optional for those looking for a cheesy twist.
• Chopped Parsley or Chives – Fresh garnish to brighten up your Potato and Sausage Chowder while adding color.

Feel free to let your creativity shine with this Potato and Sausage Chowder and enjoy the comforting goodness it brings to your family table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, signaling it’s ready for the next step. This will create a rich base for your Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder as you prepare to add the sausage.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add 1 pound of your choice of sausage to the pot, breaking it into small pieces. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, keeping the delicious bits at the bottom for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Stir in 1 chopped yellow onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, creating the flavorful backbone of your chowder.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add in 4 to 5 diced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and stir everything together. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chowder simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy, creating that hearty texture essential to your Potato and Sausage Chowder.

Step 6: Stir in Cream
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring well to make the chowder wonderfully creamy. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting all those rich flavors come together beautifully.

Step 7: Adjust and Serve
Taste the chowder and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If desired, add optional corn kernels or shredded cheddar for an extra touch. Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley or chives, and serve it hot for a comforting meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to savor this comforting dish without the last-minute rush! You can chop the vegetables and cook the sausage up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate these components in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, combine the prepped ingredients in your pot with the broth, as directed, and simmer until the potatoes are tender. Remember, the longer the chowder sits (up to 3 days), the more the flavors meld without sacrificing its delicious creaminess. Just stir in the cream before serving, and you’ll have a piping hot, hearty meal in no time!

Tips for the Best Potato and Sausage Chowder

Thicker Chowder: Mash some potatoes: For a creamier texture, mash a few potato chunks right in the pot before serving, enhancing your Potato and Sausage Chowder’s consistency.
Balanced Spices: Adjust smoked paprika: If you’re using spicy sausage, reduce the smoked paprika slightly to maintain a harmonious flavor without overwhelming heat.
Storage Savvy: Keep those leftovers: Store your chowder in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months for a quick, comforting meal later.
Fresh Vegetable Boost: Customize with veggies: Feel free to add in carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients, making your chowder even more heartwarming and hearty.
Creamy Alternatives: Lighten it up: Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk to make a delicious dairy-free version that still retains the chowder’s comforting qualities.

How to Store and Freeze Potato and Sausage Chowder

Fridge: Keep your Potato and Sausage Chowder in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the chowder in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the chowder to help restore its creamy texture, as it may thicken upon cooling.

Avoid Repeated Heating: It’s best to reheat only the portion you plan to use to keep the flavors fresh and delicious.

Potato and Sausage Chowder: Delicious Variations

Customize your chowder experience with these delightful twists and substitutions, bringing a fresh flair to each bowl!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free version.
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced carrots or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and add a vibrant burst of color.
Spicy Kick: For a fiery touch, use spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level.
Smoky Flavor: Experiment with smoked sausage for an extra smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the chowder’s creamy base.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley towards the end of cooking for a fragrant lift.
Cheesy Variation: Stir in shredded cheddar directly into the chowder for a melty, cheesy goodness that every cheese lover will adore.
Pumpkin Twist: For a unique flavor, blend in some pureed pumpkin, creating a creamy, fall-inspired chowder that will warm your soul.
Tropical Flair: Explore a Caribbean twist by adding coconut milk and chunks of pineapple for a sweet, tropical spin reminiscent of island flavors.

For more ideas on versatile soups, don’t miss out on my Corn Chowder Discover, perfect for adding seasonal veggies!

What to Serve with Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder

A cozy bowl of this chowder begs to be paired with something that complements its creamy richness and hearty textures.

Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a slice of warm, crusty bread to dip into your chowder, soaking up every flavorful bite. Serve it toasted for an extra crunch that elevates your meal.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with baby greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the chowder’s creaminess while adding a refreshing crunch to every mouthful.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery garlic breadsticks offer a delightful contrast in texture and a burst of flavor, making your bowl of chowder feel even more indulgent and comforting.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings both color and vitamins to your meal, enhancing your chowder with a deliciously sweet and savory note that pairs beautifully.
Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits studded with cheese bring warmth and comfort. They are perfect for sopping up the last drops of chowder and add a delightful richness to your meal.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, indulge in a warm apple crisp. The sweet and tart apples complement the savory chowder seamlessly, rounding out your meal with a touch of sweetness perfect for a cozy night.

Potato and Sausage Chowder Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for my chowder?
Absolutely! For this Potato and Sausage Chowder, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds will give you a creamy texture, while Russets offer a fluffier bite. Just ensure they’re firmly packed and free from any dark spots or blemishes!

How should I store leftovers from the chowder?
Very! Store your Potato and Sausage Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep that creamy goodness intact.

Can I freeze Potato and Sausage Chowder?
Absolutely! You can freeze servings of this chowder in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on low heat. It’s a great way to keep that comforting flavor ready for a rainy day!

What if my chowder turns out too thick?
Not a problem! If your Potato and Sausage Chowder is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating. This will help restore its creamy texture. I recommend adding it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you follow a dairy-free lifestyle, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a deliciously creamy alternative. The recipe can also accommodate those latching onto vegetarian options by using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I adjust the spice levels in the chowder?
The more the merrier! If you prefer a milder chowder, simply use less smoked paprika or choose a non-spicy sausage. Conversely, for those who enjoy a kick, you can include mild chili flakes or hot sauce to amp up the heat without compromising the overall flavor!

Creamy Potato and Sausage Chowder: Your Cozy Comfort Bowl

Potato and Sausage Chowder is a creamy, one-pot dish that warms both belly and soul, perfect for chilly evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use vegetable oil if preferred.
1 pound Sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken) Use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
1 large Yellow Onion Sweet onion can be used for milder taste.
3 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can work in smaller quantities if fresh is unavailable.
4 to 5 medium Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes Peel and dice for even cooking.
4 cups Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
1 cup Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half Full-fat coconut milk makes a great dairy-free option.

For Seasoning

1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used for less intensity.
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup Corn Kernels For a sweet crunch and added texture.
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Optional for a cheesy twist.
to taste Chopped Parsley or Chives Fresh garnish to brighten the chowder.

Equipment

large pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add 1 pound of your choice of sausage and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until browned.
Stir in 1 chopped yellow onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add in 4 to 5 diced potatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well and simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
Taste and season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 920mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a creamier texture, mash some potato chunks before serving. Adjust the smoked paprika based on sausage spice. Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

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