Sausage Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you must try this Sausage Potato Soup! This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. I love how the rich broth and tender potatoes come together to create comfort in a bowl.

What makes this soup truly special is its ability to warm your heart and fill your belly. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying time with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of hearty Italian sausage and creamy broth creates a dish that feels like home.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and tender potatoes in each bowl.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Sausage Potato Soup. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor that you’ll surely love!

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

Seasonings & Finishing Touches

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Optional for Serving

• Hearty buttered bread

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option that still packs plenty of flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the sausage with your favorite plant-based protein or skip it entirely and add more veggies!
• Add extra greens: Throw in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup an extra kick.

How to Make Sausage Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and let it sear for about one minute. Then use a wooden spoon to crumble it into smaller pieces as it cooks. You’ll want the sausage to be deeply browned; this caramelization adds so much depth of flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Veggies

Once your sausage is beautifully browned, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. In the same pot, melt one tablespoon of butter. Now it’s time to toss in diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these beauties for about 5–7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant—this step brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Spices

Next up, stir in those chopped baby potatoes along with dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

While your veggies are cooking away, melt four tablespoons of butter in another pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute while stirring constantly. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth. Keep cooking until this mixture thickens slightly—it should gently bubble! Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your potatoes are tender, stir in that creamy mixture from step four into your soup base. Turn off the heat and start adding shredded cheese bit by bit; stir gently until it’s melted into deliciousness! Finally, mix in sour cream followed by returning that lovely sausage back into the pot.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Now it’s time to savor every bite! Serve your warm Sausage Potato Soup with hearty buttered bread if desired. Enjoy this cozy dish with family or friends; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite just like it is in my home!

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Potato Soup

Making Sausage Potato Soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the ultimate comforting bowl every time!

• Choose high-quality sausage: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the sausage. Opt for a fresh, flavorful Italian sausage that suits your taste preference—mild for a gentle touch or hot for more spice.

• Cut veggies uniformly: Ensure your diced carrots, celery, and onion are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. This guarantees that all the veggies become tender at the same rate, making each spoonful perfectly balanced.

• Don’t rush the cheese melting: When adding cheese to the soup, do so gradually while stirring gently. This method allows for a smooth and creamy texture without clumping, enhancing the overall richness of your dish.

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour to the milk mixture. Conversely, if you like it thinner, simply incorporate more chicken stock or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

• Make ahead for more flavor: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

How to Serve Sausage Potato Soup

Serving Sausage Potato Soup can be as simple or as elegant as you wish! It’s a filling dish that warms both body and soul, perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley adds a fresh pop of color and enhances the dish’s flavors with its herbal notes.
• Crumbled crackers: Adding some crunchy crackers on top provides a delightful contrast against the creamy soup and enhances texture.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over each bowl just before serving for added richness.

Side Dishes

• Hearty buttered bread: This classic accompaniment is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. A warm slice of crusty bread complements the dish beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can add depth and variety to your meal. They’re easy to prepare and pair perfectly with any cozy soup.
• Garlic breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are another delicious option that invite you to savor every drop of your Sausage Potato Soup with their buttery goodness.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish and sharing it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sausage Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! It can easily be made ahead of time and stored, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, check for freshness and reheat thoroughly.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, gently warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Potato Soup.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives can work wonderfully while keeping the flavor profile intact.

How can I make my Sausage Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken your Sausage Potato Soup, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer or add a slurry of flour mixed with water. Another option is to blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in!

What vegetables can I add to my Sausage Potato Soup?

You can customize your Sausage Potato Soup by adding vegetables like spinach, kale, peas, or corn. They will enhance both flavor and nutrition!

Can I make Sausage Potato Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. It will still be deliciously creamy!

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Rich, cheesy, and comforting, it’s sure to warm your heart on chilly days. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do. Gather around the table with family or friends and savor every spoonful. Happy cooking!