When the chill of autumn sets in and the leaves turn crisp, my heart craves something warm and hearty to wrap around my soul like a cozy blanket. That’s when I find myself returning to my beloved Creamy Sausage Potato Soup. With its rich broth brimming with tender potatoes and savory sausage, this dish transcends ordinary comfort food. Picture the joyous aroma of sizzling garlic mingling with the scent of spices—it’s the kind of meal that pulls friends and family into the kitchen, drawn by the warmth of its invitation.
This soup is not just easy to make; it also accommodates any cooking style with both stovetop and Crock Pot methods. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or preparing a special gathering, each spoonful feels like a hug from the inside out. And the best part? It can easily be made gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. So, grab your apron and let’s create a bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why Is Sausage Potato Soup So Beloved?
Hearty, Comforting Dish: This Sausage Potato Soup wraps you in warmth with its creamy texture and rich flavors, perfect for chilly nights.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the stovetop or the Crock Pot, this recipe fits your cooking style seamlessly.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a meal everyone will love, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Easily Adaptable: Want to go gluten-free? No problem! Substitutions make this dish flexible without compromising on taste.
Quick Prep Time: In under an hour, you can prepare a delicious soup—perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive for special occasions.
Sausage Potato Soup Ingredients
• Here are the essentials to create this cozy dish.
For the Soup Base
- Ground Italian Sausage – Choose hot or mild for your preferred level of spice.
- Butter – Adds richness to the broth; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Yellow Onion – A fragrant foundation for flavor; shallots can be used as an alternative.
- Diced Carrots – Bring sweetness and color; feel free to use frozen carrots for convenience.
- Celery – Adds a lovely crunch; it can be omitted if you don’t have any on hand.
- Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend is a great substitution.
- Chicken Broth – The heart of the soup; vegetable broth works if you want a lighter base.
- Heavy Cream – Introduces a silky texture; half-and-half or coconut milk can lighten things up.
- Red Potatoes – Ideal for heartiness and holding shape; Yukon Golds are perfect for a buttery flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese (optional) – A tasty garnish; try dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.
How to Make Sausage Potato Soup
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Cook Sausage:
Start by crumbling and cooking the ground Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until it’s browned, taking about 10-12 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 tablespoon of drippings before setting the sausage aside. -
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, use the reserved drippings along with butter to sauté chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery for 5 minutes. Once they’re fragrant, add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until aromatic. -
Develop Base:
Next, stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth, scraping the pot’s bottom to release all those lovely flavors. -
Combine Ingredients:
Mix in heavy cream, a splash of hot sauce, soy sauce, and your seasonings. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. -
Add Potatoes:
Chop red potatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. -
Final Touches:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot, and if you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it in after lowering the heat to let it melt smoothly. -
Serve:
Garnish with your favorite toppings, serve hot, and enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!
Optional: Top with fresh herbs like parsley for added brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Creamy Sausage Potato Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, cook the sausage and let it cool before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies in the reserved drippings, add the broth and cream, followed by the sausage and potatoes, then let it simmer to allow those flavors to meld beautifully. This method ensures that every bowl is just as delicious as if it were made fresh, providing you with comforting, hearty satisfaction with minimal effort!
Sausage Potato Soup Variations
Customize your Sausage Potato Soup to suit your taste and dietary needs for a delightful twist!
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Cauliflower Swap: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option that still offers a hearty texture.
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Fresh Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme during cooking for a fragrant flavor boost that brightens every bowl.
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Smoky Flavor: Sprinkle in smoked paprika for an earthy depth that adds a touch of smoky goodness to your soup.
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Veggie Addition: Toss in diced tomatoes or spinach at the end for a vibrant pop of color and extra nutrients that’ll make your soup shine.
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Creamy Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative that still tastes luxurious.
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Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level, perfect for those who enjoy a kick.
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Zesty Lemon Brightness: Squeeze fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing touch to the creamy base.
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Multi-Meat Delight: Combine ground sausage with shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy bacon for a savory meat medley that elevates each bite.
Let your creativity flourish and tailor this comforting soup to your preferences!
Expert Tips for Sausage Potato Soup
- Potato Choice: Use red potatoes for the best texture; they hold their shape well and add heartiness to your Sausage Potato Soup.
- Cooking Temperature: Avoid high heat when cooking the sausage to prevent it from becoming dry. A gentle simmer keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Seasoning Adjustment: Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings and spices to your liking; adding mustard powder and hot sauce enhances flavor without increasing spiciness.
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re aiming for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream.
- Boost Sweetness: For an additional sweet touch, stir in some corn at the end of cooking; it complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage Tips for Sausage Potato Soup
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool before refrigerating to maintain flavor and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
- Texture Reminder: Be mindful that potatoes can become soft upon reheating. For best results, slightly undercook them in the initial preparation if you plan to freeze.
What to Serve with Creamy Sausage Potato Soup?
Cozy up your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance the rich flavors of this luscious soup.
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Crusty Bread:
Freshly baked sourdough or French bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your hearty soup. -
Garden Salad:
A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, balancing the meal beautifully. -
Garlic Breadsticks:
Tender, buttery garlic breadsticks are an irresistible companion, adding a delightful crunch that complements the soup’s creaminess. -
Roasted Vegetables:
A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds depth and earthy flavors, making each bite of soup even more satisfying. -
Cheesy Biscuits:
Soft and cheesy biscuits add a comforting texture while offering an extra element of flavor to pair with the soup. -
Apple Crisp:
This warm dessert with crunchy toppings and sweet apples perfectly rounds out the meal, adding a sweet finish with its comforting aroma. -
Red Wine:
A smooth, full-bodied red wine, like Merlot, elevates the dining experience with its bold flavors that match the richness of the soup.
Enjoy combining these delicious sides with your Sausage Potato Soup for a memorable meal that warms both the heart and the palate!
Creamy Sausage Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sausage for my soup?
Absolutely! The choice between hot or mild Italian sausage influences your soup’s spice level. Hot sausage will give your soup a kick, while mild sausage creates a deeper, more savory flavor. I often mix both for a balanced taste.
What should I do with leftover soup?
Very! Store your Sausage Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to keep the flavors intact.
Can I freeze this soup?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, stirring gently to maintain the creamy texture.
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What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, you can easily adjust it. Simply stir in a little chicken broth or water, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Just be sure to taste as you go to preserve the flavor balance!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For sure! If you’re serving this to guests with dietary needs, this Sausage Potato Soup can easily be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring your broth is gluten-free. Additionally, if you want to make it dairy-free, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese if garnishing.
What is the best way to store and reheat this soup?
Great question! To store your Sausage Potato Soup, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, it’s best to warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and if it thickens upon reheating, add a splash of broth to reach your desired consistency.
Satisfy Your Cravings with Hearty Sausage Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Crumble and cook the ground Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until browned, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 tablespoon of drippings before setting the sausage aside.
- In the same pot, use reserved drippings and butter to sauté chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery for 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in all-purpose flour, cooking for 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth, scraping the pot’s bottom.
- Mix in heavy cream, a splash of hot sauce, soy sauce, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Add chopped red potatoes and simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot, and if using, stir in cheddar cheese after reducing heat.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings, serve hot, and enjoy!